Incubator Space
Is your business or organization in need of seed funds?
Before launching The Table NYC, Katrena Perou tested her innovative Summer Incubator program with Brooklyn teens through her nonprofit, Inspiring Minds NYC. Since 2021, 38 young entrepreneurs have piloted or launched businesses through her model. You can learn more about their inspiring stories below.
Through the The Table NYC network, Katrena is now poised to expand her incubator program to serve the broader community! You can apply to pitch your idea HERE.
It all started with the youth!
Here are a few of the young people Katrena has supported to build their businesses from scratch. We are excited to expand this services for adults through The Table NYC!
CEO, Gloves Up Guns Down
Arnold Ludd
In 2020, Arnold joined the Inspiring Minds Leadership Institute, setting the stage for his entrepreneurial journey. In 2021, he pitched his innovative idea, Gloves Up Guns Down, to Katrena as part of her Summer Incubator program. His compelling presentation earned him $2,000 in funding and technical assistnace to bring his vision to life. Arnold’s success continued as he secured additional funding through the DYCD Young Sharks competition, and he hasn’t looked back since!
With Katrena’s support, Arnold established his LLC, obtained a DOE Vendor number, and secured contracts with over 10 DOE schools. His impactful work has been spotlighted on CBS2 News, PIX11, and BET. Now a senior at City Tech, Arnold is already set to launch his own business upon graduation!
CEO, Chuck's Round Table
Kylie Richardson
Kylie joined the Inspiring Minds Leadership Institute in 2021 and pitched her program, Chuck's Round Table, in 2023. Since then, she has secured contracts with eight DOE schools, thanks to her dedication and vision. With Katrena’s support, Kylie also landed partnerships with community organizations such as the Brooklyn Sports Club, Age Friendly, Bridge Street Corp, and the Center for Law and Justice.
Her program has grown so significantly that Kylie has trained others to facilitate it on her behalf, allowing her to focus on her college studies. Now a junior at Hunter College, Kylie is already set to continue running her own business after graduation!
CEO, Japplejuice Productions
Joshua Applewhite
Joshua joined the Inspiring Minds Leadership Institute in the summer of 2020, discovering his passion for creating fun and engaging videos to connect with youth during the pandemic. After graduating, he worked at Amazon but stayed in touch with Katrena, who later supported him in expanding his film production business, Japplejuice Productions.
Since then, Joshua has been contracted to teach film in three Inspiring Minds schools and has even expanded his impact by teaching boxing in two additional schools. His journey highlights his versatility and dedication to empowering youth through creativity and fitness!