Dear Friends and Supporters,
As I sit down to write this letter, I'm filled with excitement about the incredible journey ahead for Knox Street Studios. The start of 2025 marks a pivotal moment in our history, and I want to share with you the transformative vision we've developed for the next chapter of our story.
Through intensive planning sessions this past December, we've made a bold decision to evolve KSS's identity. While our commitment to community impact remains unwavering, we're now positioning ourselves as an education company – one that delivers measurable outcomes and creates lasting change in North Carolina's educational and entrepreneurial landscape.
This evolution isn't just about a change in terminology; it's about maximizing our impact. Our new strategic plan for 2025-2027 focuses on three key pillars that will shape our future:
First, we're expanding our Technical Skills Certifications into cutting-edge fields that matter most in today's economy: AI implementation, cybersecurity, and data analytics. These aren't just buzzwords – they're the tools that will empower our community members to thrive in tomorrow's workplace.
Second, we're elevating our Entrepreneurship Training program with specialized tracks in real estate ownership and venture capital preparation. We've seen firsthand how access to these specific knowledge areas can transform growth-stage ventures, and we're committed to making this expertise accessible to our community.
Third, through our Community Events and KSS Labs initiatives, we're doubling down on our role as a regional innovation hub. These programs aren't just about hosting events – they're about creating the connections and collaborations that drive real economic growth in our region.
I'm particularly thrilled to share some exciting news about our physical space. After careful planning, we've secured permits to expand our current Walltown location with a second story, adding 1,200 square feet of much-needed community space. This expansion will allow us to better serve our growing community and provide a home for like-minded businesses and individuals who share our vision for positive change.
None of this would be possible without our incredible partners. Your support has been instrumental in getting us to where we are today, and we'll be counting on your continued partnership as we move forward. (And yes, we may be reaching out soon about supporting our expansion project!)
Looking ahead, I'm more convinced than ever that KSS has a crucial role to play in building stronger companies, more resilient local economies, and developing the essential skills needed in today's business environment. We're not just adapting to change – we're helping to shape it.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Whether you're a longtime supporter or just learning about Knox Street Studios, I invite you to connect with us and explore how we can work together to create lasting impact in our community.
With gratitude and excitement for what's ahead! Lets Go!
Talib Graves-Manns
Executive Director & Founder
Knox Street Studios
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