This Sunday, New England Innovation Academy (NEIA) will host the highly anticipated NEXTGEN Summit, a student-led entrepreneurship event designed to connect, educate, and empower young innovators. Langston Reid, founder and CEO, and Owen O’Brien, Chief Experience Officer, recently sat down with Michelle Mercier, CEO and President of the Marlborough Regional Chamber of Commerce, to discuss how NEXTGEN is shaping the future of student entrepreneurship. Listen to the podcast here.
NEXTGEN was born from an entrepreneurship class at NEIA, where Langston and Owen recognized a gap in business education for young students. “Instead of searching for students interested in business, we created a space where they could come to us,” Langston explained. The summit features a pitch competition, industry expert-led workshops, and networking opportunities, allowing students to gain real-world insights that traditional education often overlooks.
What makes NEXTGEN unique is its emphasis on hands-on learning and collaboration. “We’re building a network of like-minded individuals—students who want to grow, connect, and bring their ideas to life,” Owen shared. The summit provides opportunities for students to pitch business ideas, connect with mentors, and learn from leaders in AI, marketing, finance, and technology.
Last year’s summit brought together over 100 student entrepreneurs and 12 industry leaders, and this year, the team is aiming even higher. NEXTGEN is also expanding internationally, with plans to host a summit in Costa Rica later this year. “The goal is to create a lasting impact, not just in New England, but worldwide,” Langston said.
As they prepare for this weekend’s event, Langston and Owen invite students, parents, and business leaders to join them in fostering the next generation of entrepreneurs. “If you have an idea, if you’re curious about business, or if you just want to be part of an inspiring community, NEXTGEN is the place for you,” Owen said.
The NEXTGEN Summit will take place this Sunday, March 2, 2025, at NEIA. To learn more or register, visit nextgenceos.org.
