COLE STEVENS
Building Systems for Human Flourishing.
Strategic operator and systems builder with over five years of executive leadership experience launching and scaling high-impact ventures. Co-founder of a million-dollar youth-led innovation lab and founder of a media platform spotlighting BIPOC leaders across the Midwest. Proven track record designing human-centered programs, building operational infrastructure, and delivering transformative growth across education, workforce, and entrepreneurial ecosystems. His work has trained hundreds of emerging leaders, secured tens of millions in public investment, and created scalable infrastructure for purpose, prosperity, and power on a societal scale
Meet Cole
Cole Stevens is a strategist, entrepreneur, and systems architect with a mission to lead with love and live with joy, while inspiring others to do the same. His work blends strategic execution with visionary leadership, creating scalable tools and programs that empower people to unlock their purpose, expand their freedom, and master their gifts.
As Co-Founder and Director of Impact at Bridgemakers, Cole helped grow the social venture from an idea to a million-dollar operation. He led statewide policy efforts that delivered over $35 million in economic relief to more than 20,000 working youth and their families, designed award-winning youth entrepreneurship and leadership programs, and helped launch dozens of youth-led ventures.
Cole is also the founder of POC Magazine, a quarterly publication celebrating entrepreneurs and cultural leaders of color across the Midwest. His work as a speaker, researcher, and facilitator has been recognized by foundations, media outlets, and public institutions alike. Whether in a room of CEOs or students, he brings deep compassion, structured clarity, and a commitment to human-centered growth.
His guiding values are purpose, freedom, mastery, relationships, compassion, and creation.
Selected Work
Bridgemakers
Co-founded and led one of the country's most influential youth-led organizations. Led a statewide campaign delivering $35M in economic relief to 20,000+ families. Designed leadership, entrepreneurship, and civic education programs that launched 17 youth-led businesses and trained hundreds of young leaders.
POC Magazine
Founder and Editor-in-Chief of a quarterly print and digital magazine spotlighting BIPOC entrepreneurs and culture-makers in the Midwest. Produced over 200 pages of original content across two issues, featuring 40+ leaders, and building a unique platform for visibility and connection.
Systems Design & Facilitation
Developed and tested scalable program design systems, including a leadership development framework that enables others to build custom curricula. Facilitated high-stakes negotiations, team alignment, and strategic planning processes across youth, nonprofit, government, and philanthropic partners.
Consulting & Speaking
Cole partners with mission-aligned organizations, agencies, and founders to bring bold ideas to life through strategic design, human-centered systems, and dynamic facilitation. He is available for:
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Fundraising Strategy, Grantwriting, and Funder Communications
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Custom program design, learning management systems, and data collection processes for nonprofits
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Organizational Strategy, Stakeholder Alignment & Facilitation
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Research, design and implementation of new services, programs and initiatives across public and private institutions
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Keynote Speaking and Panel Appearances on Youth Leadership, Inclusive Economic Development, and Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurship
To explore partnerships or book Cole for a speaking engagement, use the contact form below or email c.stevens@nebulathegroup.com