Mission & Our Story
The mission of The ARK Entrepreneurial Center is to create opportunities for inner-city youth through entrepreneurial development.
Inspired by the entrepreneurial journey that began in Dr. Nicholson's youth, The ARK is built on the belief that it’s never too early to introduce children to business ownership. As a grammar school student, Dr. Nicholson was introduced to entrepreneurship through Junior Achievement, in partnership with RR Donnelley. By the age of eleven, he had already gained foundational skills in business management.
His passion for the field grew as he attended Chicago Vocational High School, where he majored in graphic arts and printing. Through a work-study program, he worked in his field during school hours, gaining hands-on experience that eventually led him to launch his own company, Cottage Grove Printing. After opening a second location and running the business successfully for over a decade, Dr. Nicholson transitioned to full-time ministry.
Now, through The ARK, Dr. Nicholson and his team are committed to shaping the next generation of leaders. The center focuses on four key areas: Business Development, Training & Support Services, Workforce Development, and Mentoring & Coaching. Youth are equipped with skills in website development, graphic arts, photography, music, and app development, learning how to transform these talents into thriving businesses.
The vision of The ARK Entrepreneurial Center is to close the gap in work opportunities for youth by equipping them with the tools to create their own pathways to success.