Golden Key Entrepreneur Training Academy was born from a vision to unlock opportunity, inspire transformation, and build a lasting legacy of generational wealth—one entrepreneur at a time. Founded in Memphis, Tennessee by Dr. Nicole Gates-Golden and Charlie Golden Jr., Golden Key is more than a training academy—it’s a movement rooted in hope, access, and empowerment.

 

We saw a need in our community for a place where entrepreneurs could gain real skills, mentorship, and hands-on experience to turn their ideas into thriving, sustainable businesses. Too often, dreamers with talent and passion lacked the tools, strategy, or support system to succeed. Golden Key was created to bridge that gap. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to equip diverse and underserved founders with the knowledge, resources, and confidence to do business the Golden Way—with purpose, excellence, and impact.

 

At the heart of Golden Key is our 12-week Entrepreneur Training Program, a comprehensive learning experience that covers everything from business development and project management to digital marketing, UX design, and cybersecurity. Each module is designed to meet entrepreneurs where they are and help them grow through practical application, personalized coaching, and a strong community network.

 

But Golden Key doesn’t stop at education. Our ecosystem includes the Innovation Brand Lab, Print Center, Ghost Kitchen, Zen Den, and Content Studio, offering wrap-around support that meets the holistic needs of entrepreneurs. Whether it’s printing marketing materials, building an e-commerce site, testing a food concept, or producing brand visuals, our students gain real-world experience within a safe and supportive environment.

 

We proudly operate in the Raleigh community—an area rich in culture, creativity, and potential. Every class, partnership, and event we host reinforces our commitment to local economic development and inclusive innovation. Through collaborations with community organizations, corporations, and civic leaders, we connect our entrepreneurs to resources, funding opportunities, and mentorship that extend far beyond the classroom.

 

Golden Key’s work is guided by our signature Golden Blueprint Voice, a communication style that blends professionalism, compassion, and empowerment. We speak hope into every student, every lesson, and every milestone. Our approach emphasizes collaboration over competition, integrity over shortcuts, and purpose over profit.

 

We believe entrepreneurship is not just about business—it’s about building lives, families, and futures. When one person thrives, the ripple effects strengthen the entire community. Golden Key exists to ensure that success is accessible, sustainable, and shared.

 

As we continue to grow, our promise remains the same: to open doors, remove barriers, and light the path toward possibility.

Golden Key Entrepreneur Training Academy—

Unlock your future. Build your legacy. Do business the Golden Way.