iNEXG-BDS LLC

Inspiring Growth for Future Generations

Our Youth leadership programming STEP and STEAP immerses young people K-12 in fields such as science, entrepreneurship, technology, and agribusiness can provide valuable opportunities for young individuals to develop essential skills, explore their interests, and make a positive impact in these sectors. Some key aspects and activities that are included in our leadership programming focus on these areas:

Science:

  • Mentoring: Pairing young participants with experienced scientists who can provide guidance and support.
  • Research projects: Encouraging participants to conduct their own scientific research projects, either individually or in teams.
  • Science fairs and competitions: Organizing events where participants can showcase their scientific knowledge and discoveries.
  • Workshops and lectures: Inviting experts to share their expertise on various scientific disciplines.
  • Field trips: Visiting research institutions, laboratories, and other science-related facilities.

Entrepreneurship:

  • Business planning and development: Teaching participants about creating business plans, market research, and financial management.
  • Pitch competitions: Organizing events where participants can present their business ideas to a panel of judges and receive feedback.
  • Networking events: Providing opportunities for young entrepreneurs to connect with industry professionals, investors, and potential partners.
  • Guest speakers: Inviting successful entrepreneurs to share their stories and insights.
  • Incubator programs: Offering support and resources for participants to develop and launch their own ventures. 

Technology:

  • Coding and programming workshops: Teaching participants programming languages and software development skills.
  • Hackathons: Organizing events where participants collaborate on creating innovative tech solutions within a specified time frame.
  • Tech talks and webinars: Inviting experts to discuss emerging technologies and trends in the tech industry.
  • Tech showcases: Providing platforms for young tech enthusiasts to demonstrate their projects and inventions.
  • Virtual reality and augmented reality experiences: Introducing participants to immersive technologies and their potential applications.

Agribusiness:

  • Sustainable agriculture practices: Educating participants about eco-friendly farming methods and the importance of food security.
  • Farm visits: Arranging trips to farms and agricultural research centers to expose participants to various aspects of agribusiness.
  • Business and marketing skills: Teaching participants about market analysis, value chain management, and branding in the agricultural sector.
  • Innovation in agriculture: Exploring technological advancements, such as precision farming, hydroponics, and vertical farming.

Entrepreneurial opportunities:

  • Encouraging participants to identify and develop innovative agribusiness ideas.

In each of these domains, we incorporate crucial leadership development components such as team-building activities, communication skills training, problem-solving exercises, and opportunities for community engagement. Additionally, providing ongoing mentorship and networking opportunities with out university partners help participants establish valuable connections and support their long-term growth in these fields.

iSprouts

Our iSprouts are our next generation bumper crop of micro-farmers age 5 through 11

STEP/STEAP

Students in Technology and Entrepreneurial Programming (STEP) and Students in Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Agribusiness (STEAP) Programming was started in 2008

This group of leaders ages 12-18 engage in various leadership activities. Check out our video on the home page. Students visited Virginia State University and did they ever have fun!

Be sure to check out our photo gallery on this page.


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