Business Details
9 Years
experience
Free Boxing and Entrepreneurship Training for Newark Youth
Since 2017, IRONBOUND Boxing has dedicated itself to transforming the lives of Newark youth through a unique blend of free amateur boxing training and entrepreneurial education. Founded by three-time National Collegiate Boxing Champion Mike Steadman, our veteran-led nonprofit combines the discipline of boxing with practical business skills to create future community leaders and entrepreneurs. Our programs, including the THRIVE Initiative and the upcoming Courage Academy, have already trained over 75 boxers, awarded $15,000 in microgrants, and helped 40+ young adults pursue higher education and careers. By leveraging the mental resilience and strategic thinking inherent in boxing, we equip participants with the tools to succeed both in and out of the ring.Our approach emphasizes commitment, with participants dedicating approximately 15 hours weekly to physical training, mentorship, and business education. As a 501(c)(3) organization registered with USA Boxing, we maintain rigorous standards of coaching excellence while operating entirely through donations. Our proven model demonstrates that when youth are given access to structured training, entrepreneurial resources, and community support, they can break cycles of poverty and become powerful contributors to society.
Services
Free Boxing Training
Entrepreneurship Coaching
Mentorship Programs
Paid Internships
Business Incubator
Details
- Year established: 2017
Highlights and features
- Free programs since 2017 with proven results: 75+ trained boxers and $15K+ in microgrants awarded
- Unique combination of boxing training and entrepreneurship education under one model
- Veteran-led organization with USA Boxing-certified coaches and structured curriculum
- Community-focused approach with 100% free access to all student athletes
- Proven track record helping 40+ young adults launch businesses and pursue higher education
Associations and certifications
- USA Boxing
What people say
Gives confidence
Love everything about it
Community impact
Proven results
Mental discipline
Services
Free Boxing Training
Our comprehensive boxing program provides free intensive coaching for competition and fitness. Participants develop physical discipline, mental resilience, and strategic thinking through structured workouts including heavy bag training, sparring, and strength exercises. The program emphasizes character development alongside athletic skill, preparing youth for success beyond the ring through mentorship and community engagement.
Entrepreneurship Coaching
The THRIVE Initiative offers phased business education from idea development to market execution. Our 4-week core curriculum covers business structure, marketing strategies, financial management, and leadership principles. Participants gain practical experience through mentorship programs, business pitch competitions, and access to startup capital, transforming boxing discipline into entrepreneurial success.
Mentorship Programs
Experienced coaches and business professionals provide personalized guidance to participants. Our mentorship focuses on goal setting, skill development, and career planning, combining boxing training with life skills education. Mentors help youth navigate educational opportunities, business ventures, and personal growth through consistent support and accountability.
Paid Internships
We connect participants with real-world business experience through subsidized internships. These opportunities allow youth to apply entrepreneurial training in practical settings while earning income. The program builds professional networks and develops workplace skills through partnerships with local businesses and community organizations.
Business Incubator
Our Courage Academy incubator program provides resources for young entrepreneurs to launch and grow businesses. Services include workspace access, business coaching, and financial support through grants and microloans. The program emphasizes community impact, helping startups address local needs while developing sustainable business models.
People
Mike Steadman
Founder & CEO
Three-time National Collegiate Boxing Champion and former Marine Corps officer who established IRONBOUND in 2017. A Naval Academy graduate with combat experience in Afghanistan, Mike combines military discipline with entrepreneurial expertise to lead the organization's community impact initiatives.
Keith Colon
Head Coach
USA Boxing-registered head coach with over 200 youth boxers trained since 2017. A Newark native who maintained training programs during pandemic restrictions, Keith has led athletes to multiple national championship appearances while emphasizing accountability and skill development.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We primarily work with youth aged 10-22, with special consideration for mature 8+ year olds who demonstrate readiness for structured training programs.
Are your programs really free?
Yes, all boxing training and business education programs are completely free to participants. Our operations are funded entirely through donations and sponsorships.
How does the business training work?
Our THRIVE Initiative offers a 4-week core curriculum covering business fundamentals, followed by mentorship opportunities, pitch competitions, and access to startup capital.
How can I join the boxing program?
Complete our online application, visit our Newark gym for orientation, and begin with basic training that progresses based on individual commitment and skill development.
What happens to program graduates?
Alumni receive ongoing support through our network while pursuing higher education, launching businesses, or entering the workforce with skills developed through our mentorship programs.
How are donations used?
Funds support equipment, facility maintenance, coach stipends, tournament fees, and our THRIVE Initiative's microgrant program that has awarded over $15,000 to date.
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