March 2022 Newsletter – We’re Back!
Dear Friends,
We’re back! This month, our team returned to the office, moving into our new Boston Innovation Center in Jackson Square, at the cross-section of the City’s Mission Hill, Roxbury and Jamaica Plain neighborhoods! Next month, we welcome our students back as well – our first in-person programming in 2 years!
This 36,000 square feet state-of-the-art, professional Innovation Center, Fab Lab, and headquarters is designed to inspire, facilitate collaboration among students and partners, and offer young people with the best possible start to their career journeys. It will allow TPZ to:
- Enroll 1,000 Boston students annually by partnering with BPS high schools and surrounding community organizations.
- Advance both entrepreneurship and STEAM learning through comprehensive, evidence-based curriculum, and design, multimedia, and advanced manufacturing technology and resources.
- Collaborate with the existing, vibrant ecosystem of community and business partners to provide comprehensive wrap-around services, work-based learning opportunities and internships, and postsecondary support for students. It will also offer technical assistance, capital, and space for local entrepreneurs (including TPZ alumni).
In addition to ‘sneak peek’ pictures of the Innovation Center, read this month’s newsletter to learn about:
- The launch of TPZ’s Venture Accelerator – Our exciting, new Fellowship for TPZ alumni who are ready to take their business ventures to the next level is underway.
- Support from National Grid – TPZ’s partner, National Grid, is stepping up to provide funding for STEAM and clean energy learning and career exploration.
- Talent wanted – We’re always looking for great candidates committed to economic equity and opportunity. Check out and share our current career openings.
To support our move to Boston and goals of serving 1,000 students and providing space and resources for local entrepreneurs, please consider a donation of any size!
Enjoy and please stay safe!
Innovation Center – Peek In!
TPZ’s 36,000 sq.ft Innovation Center supports student enrollment growth, space for local entrepreneurs, and collaboration with business & community partners.
The Innovation Center incorporates student design – including this wall mural – to welcome and inspire students. Message: This is your space! The possibilities are endless!
Staff returned to in-person this month, moving into the new Center. This 1st floor entrance has gathering space for community & partners!
Staff holding a meeting in one of the Innovation Center’s design studios, equipped with multimedia & advanced manufacturing technology.
Venture Accelerator – For TPZ Alums Underway!
TPZ’s Venture Fellowship has officially begun! With seed funding from a generous donor, this cohort-based Fellowship provides funding, mentoring, coaching, and networking opportunities for TPZ’s alumni who wish to pursue their own business as a career path and take it to the next level. In addition to support from experienced entrepreneurial mentors and business coaches, Fellows receive access to office space, equipment, and community within TPZ’s Innovation Center.
Meet our first Fellows:
Jaleel Davis
Jaleel, of Jaleel Draws, makes beautiful, custom art pieces, logos and merchandise to bring happiness to others. Jaleel’s goals include improving his website for custom orders and using the Innovation Center to paint.
Joshua Elysee
Josh is the cofounder of Jefe, a high-end, streetwear company. Jefe (meaning “boss” in Spanish) is intended to help people see their unlimited potential; that they can be the boss of their own lives and future. Josh’s goals include paying and growing his team, improving website traffic, and increasing the frequency of collection releases.
Sean Hargrove
Sean, the founder of Dorcey Atelier, has two brands: a high-end custom cut and sew apparel line and a more accessible, every-day inspired line. Sean’s goals include establishing both lines and improving his production process.
National Grid Supports Clean Energy Exploration!
TPZ recently received a grant from committed partner, National Grid, to plan and delivery a Deep Dive course in clean energy. Co-developed with National Grid, this course will review emerging clean energy systems and technology, as well as related careers, opening up new opportunities for Boston’s young people!