NEXT GENERATION PROGRAM

Overview of the NEXT GENERATION PROGRAM program:

The NextGen Program is a flagship initiative by Goodie Nation aimed at bridging the relationship gap that often hinders progress for underrepresented tech founders, especially those from Black, Latinx, and Indigenous communities. The program focuses on creating access to a tight-knit community of experts, mentors, investors, and fellow entrepreneurs. Its mission is to close the "relationship gap" — a lack of access to influential networks that many underestimated founders face — and, in turn, increase both the velocity and sustainability of their ventures. Participants are supported through strategic connections, community programming, and curated matching with coaches and funders. The program is highly selective, with a rigorous vetting process to ensure that founders who are accepted are well-positioned to benefit from a strong network. It’s designed for tech and tech-enabled startups that are impact-driven and led by founders often overlooked by traditional funding pipelines. NextGen is more than just a business accelerator — it's a long-term community engagement model offering continuous, tailored support. The focus is on helping founders grow personally and professionally, not just their companies.

Benefits of the NEXT GENERATION PROGRAM program:

• Access to a curated network of over 200 experts, mentors, and funders
• Bi-weekly group check-ins for accountability and support
• Custom 1-on-1 relationship brokering with potential advisors, investors, and partners
• Peer support through a community of purpose-driven tech founders
• Mental health and founder wellness support
• Exposure and visibility through Goodie Nations platforms and community
• Long-term support with no fixed end date
• Strategic ecosystem introductions tailored to business goals
• Opportunities to be featured in newsletters, showcases, and national partnerships

Eligibility criteria of the NEXT GENERATION PROGRAM program:

• Founders must lead a tech or tech-enabled company
• Priority is given to those who identify as Black, Latinx, Indigenous, or are women
• Applicants must be mission-driven entrepreneurs
• Companies should be early-stage (from MVP to revenue-generating)
• Ventures should aim to create positive social or economic impact
• Founders must be willing to actively engage in community and coaching activities
• There is no age requirement, but applicants should be founders or core leaders of their startup
• Applicants must show commitment to growth and openness to mentorship