Seton Hall University announced the launch of ImpactNJ: Urban Ventures Collaborative, a comprehensive Entrepreneurship Boot Camp and Mentoring Program designed to empower early-stage entrepreneurs in underserved communities across northern New Jersey.
Set to begin in January 2026, this initiative aims to strengthen local economies by providing aspiring business owners with essential tools, training, and resources they might otherwise not have access to.
ImpactNJ is part of the nationally recognized Urban Poverty and Business Initiative (UPBI), a global network of universities and nonprofit partners working to address poverty through economic empowerment. As the UPBI partner for Northern New Jersey, Seton Hall is focusing its efforts on communities including:
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Newark
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Orange & East Orange
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Irvington
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Paterson
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Elizabeth
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Jersey City
The 11-month program supports both individuals ready to transform a business idea into a viable venture and existing entrepreneurs facing challenges scaling their operations.
“This program is about more than education — it’s about empowerment,” Susan Scherreik, director of ImpactNJ and founding director of Seton Hall’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship said. “What sets this initiative apart is the depth and duration of support we provide. This program offers truly individualized guidance for aspiring entrepreneurs who might otherwise feel overwhelmed by the challenges of their daily lives.”
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Foundational Boot Camp: A six-week Saturday progr4am focusing on foundational business knowledge.
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Professional Mentoring: Four months of one-on-one mentoring from experienced professionals.
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Student Consulting: Specialized support in August 2026 from Seton Hall students to help with website development, social media presence, and business operations.
| Feature | Details |
| Start Date | January 31, 2026 |
| Location | Equal Space Sharespace & Incubator, Newark, NJ |
| Cost | $25 for participants (with a $725 scholarship) |
| Mentorship | Foundational training followed by 4 months of 1-on-1 mentoring |
Through collaboration with local partners, such as the Greater Newark Enterprises Corporation (a Community Development Financial Institution), regional business leaders, and Seton Hall faculty, participants will gain access to practical workshops and microlending resources.
The program also provides a vital service-learning experience for Seton Hall students. “We are especially excited about involving our students in this program,” said Joyce Strawser, Ph.D., dean of the Stillman School of Business, highlighting their journey to becoming “principled business leaders.”
