Preparing our NEXT generation to
change the world!

NEXT prepares our next generation not only deal with future challenges but to approach them as opportunities through...

Curriculum & Workshops

Interactions with students involve lessons and activities that grow their understanding of the world outside of school. It centers around the creation of an idea teaching them key problem-solving skills. It spans a variety of topics including leadership, equity, college & career prep, and much more.

Coaching & Work

The lessons and projects provide opportunities for the students to be coached and guided through not only the startup process but the many types of decision they will make in life and career. NEXT couples this with work opportunities including internships, projects, or working on a startup.

Speakers & Mentors

Guidance is provided by subject matter experts and community leaders. Speakers share knowledge and teach valuable skills as the student build on their idea. Students receive mentorship on their ideas and have conversations about their next steps toward college, work, and life.

Contests & Events

Gatherings among the students are very purposeful and powerful. They break down barriers by mixing schools, races, cultures, and income classes providing opportunities to form invaluable connections. Our pitch contest provides opportunities for additional coaching, prizes, and startup support.






2024-2025 CALENDAR

September 2024 NEXT Visits begin

Visits include guest speakers, pitch prep, and mentorship. Contact Us. 

November 22, 2024 NEXT Prep Middle School Pitch Contest Video Submission Deadline

NEXT Prep Contest requires a 2-minute or less video submitted online to win up to $250 in gift cards. Learn More.

January 2025 2nd Semester NEXT Visits begin

Visits include guest speakers, pitch prep, and mentorship. Contact Us. 

January 25, 2025 X-Squared Competition at St. Xavier High School

X-Squared requires 8-minute pitches to win up to $1,500 and $1,500 in scholarships to the region's universities (TMU, UD, UC, XU, MSJ, MU). Learn More.

March 20, 2025 Square1 NEXT Final Pitch Event

Square1 NEXT Final Pitch Event awards cash and scholarships, with the top team earning a 4-year, full tuition scholarship to Thomas More University. Contact Us. 

Our Impact

Our students learn to take control of their lives. Taking on challenges head on powered by Square1 NEXT!

“The NEXT program is essential to the future of this region as our economy demands not only more entrepreneurs, but employees who can think innovatively and lead initiatives. Square1 is making a significant contribution to our regional by building the skills of these students that are our future.”

Rebecca,

Startup Coach

"The program allowed me to think about new pathways and broaden my expertise. I learned more about businesses and how to developer an idea into something more."

Keylena,

Student

"Our son was really excited about the project. You lit a fire!"

Thom,

Parent

"Square1 gave me the confidence to achieve more than I thought I could.". Shiela is a NEXT Grad & Phlebotomist at St. Elizabeth Healthcare

Shiela,

Student