Business Details
9 Years
experience
Empowering Newark Youth Through Boxing and Entrepreneurship
Founded in 2017, IRONBOUND Boxing Academy is a veteran-led nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering opportunity youth in Newark, New Jersey. Our mission combines free amateur boxing training with entrepreneurship education, mentorship, and paid internships through our Courage Academy and THRIVE incubator programs. With a focus on developing community leaders and future business owners, we leverage the discipline and resilience cultivated in boxing to foster success in personal and professional endeavors.Our team of USA Boxing-certified coaches has trained over 75 competitive boxers while helping 40+ young adults pursue higher education, launch businesses, and secure meaningful employment. As a 501(c)(3) organization, we rely on donations and corporate partnerships to maintain our 100% free programs for participants.
Services
Free Boxing Training
Entrepreneurship Education
Business Mentorship
Paid Internships
Youth Development
Details
- Year established: 2017
Highlights and features
- Free boxing training and entrepreneurship programs for ages 10-22
- Proven track record with 75+ trained boxers and $15K+ in microgrants awarded
- USA Boxing-certified coaches with competitive national championship experience
- Integrated business incubator program with mentorship and paid internships
- Community-focused model developed by Marine Corps veteran founder
Associations and certifications
- USA Boxing
What people say
Gave me confidence
Love everything about it
Changed my life
Made me stronger
Community support
Services
Free Boxing Training
Our free boxing program provides comprehensive training for ages 10-22, focusing on discipline, confidence, and physical fitness. Certified coaches deliver structured workouts including technical drills, strength training, and sparring. Participants develop mental resilience while preparing for competitive opportunities at regional and national levels.
Entrepreneurship Education
The THRIVE Initiative offers phased business education covering core concepts, marketing, finance, and leadership. Participants engage in a 4-week curriculum followed by mentorship and pitch competitions. The program emphasizes practical skills for freelancing, solopreneurship, and small business ownership.
Business Mentorship
Experienced entrepreneurs provide personalized coaching through our incubator program. Mentors support participants in developing business plans, securing funding, and navigating operational challenges. The program includes cash incentives for achieving key milestones in business development.
Paid Internships
Our network connects participants with paid internship opportunities at local businesses. These placements offer hands-on experience in real-world operations while building professional networks. The program helps bridge the gap between education and employment for underserved youth.
Youth Development
Holistic development programs combine athletic training with life skills education. Participants build confidence, learn teamwork, and develop leadership capabilities through structured activities. The curriculum emphasizes character development and community engagement for long-term personal growth.
People
Mike Steadman
Founder
Three-time National Collegiate Boxing Champion and former Marine Corps officer who established IRONBOUND in 2017. A Naval Academy graduate with deployments to Afghanistan, Mike combines military discipline with entrepreneurial experience to lead community development initiatives in Newark.
Keith Colon
Head Coach
USA Boxing-certified head coach with extensive experience training Newark youth. Directed over 200 boxers since 2017, maintaining training programs through pandemic challenges. Led team to multiple national championship appearances while emphasizing accountability and personal growth.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We primarily serve ages 10-22, with special consideration for mature 8-9 year olds who demonstrate readiness for structured training.
Are your programs really free?
Yes, all boxing training and business education programs are 100% free through sponsorships and donations. Participants only invest their time and effort.
How can I join the boxing program?
Complete our online application, visit the gym for orientation, and begin with basic training. No prior experience is required to start.
What business support do you offer?
Our THRIVE Initiative provides business education, mentorship, pitch competitions with cash prizes, and internship opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs.
How do donations help your programs?
Every $85 monthly donation sponsors one athlete's training, equipment, and education. Contributions directly support facility operations, coaching resources, and program expansion.
Can adults participate in training?
While our focus is youth development, we welcome adult mentors and volunteers who support our mission through coaching, sponsorship, or program assistance.
Videos
Reviews (3)
Drew O'Brien
Dec 06, 2020
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Michael Steadman & the Ironbound team are single handedly changing peoples lives, everyday. I have had the pleasure to work with them, and I look forward to continue our working relationship.
Jasmine Gates
Dec 25, 2019
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Checked it out one weekend and the entire set-up is amazing! Theres a huge boxing ring in the center with bags and legit training equipment all over. So cool that this is provided for free to the youth of Newark
Mike Steadman
Nov 16, 2019
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This is a badass gym and a badass program. IRONBOUND Boxing is truly on a mission to change lives through boxing. They do a great job of providing an outlet for youth & young adults in Newark. The program has come a long way in a short amount of time and I'm excited to see what's next :)
