UDC student selected as 2022 scholar in Innovators of Progress’ pre-accelerator program

A doctoral student in the Urban Leadership and Entrepreneurship program, Shaka Dickerson has been chosen as one of two cohorts in the Innovators of Progress’ pre-accelerator program, a one-year program designed to support entrepreneurial-minded students with up to $140,000 comprising seed capital, tuition assistance and internships.

Admitted scholars are ambitious, high-achieving students who want to make a difference in their communities and respective fields. The vision of the Innovators of Progress program is to engage students early, provide them with an environment to practice the science of entrepreneurship, and provide opportunities for them to grow their businesses in the region.

Dickerson is developing a virtual platform called Creative Good, which aims to be a one-stop shop for holistic, positive-minded content, merchandise and mentoring for those battling anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts.

“The foundation for Creative Good grew from a challenging period in my life. The full concept and energy behind it came as an educator observing the mental strain today’s society places on people of all ages, especially youth, and a burning desire to do something about it.”

Dickerson was struck by the number of people suffering from low self-efficacy, anxiety and depression before, during and after COVID-19.

“Pandemic numbers have increased across the country and so has anxiety and depression,” Dickerson said. “My generation has amazing ideas, drive and heart to do the right thing. We believe we are creating a company that helps others.”

Each scholar will receive up to $15,000 in seed capital, scholarship and internships during their time in the pre-accelerator. Thanks to a new partnership with Conscious Venture Lab, students will be able to compete for an additional $125,000 in funding upon graduation.

Learn more about UDC’s Urban Leadership and Entrepreneurship program by clicking here.

For more information about Innovators of Progress, please visit their website.