Nick Gross, drummer for the band Goldfinger, is now helping young people discover and pursue careers outside traditional paths through his platform, Find Your Grind. The platform emphasizes alternative professions, including being a pop-punk band member, content creator, social media manager, and professional esports player.
On Tuesday, Find Your Grind announced a $5 million Series A funding round, led by Echo Investment Capital and supported by Gross’ own investment firm, Gross Labs. This brings the startup’s total funding to $8 million. The investment will help expand the company’s career readiness programs across the U.S.
Gross’ inspiration for the platform comes from his early music career. At 17, his high school band, Open Air Stereo, gained exposure on MTV’s reality series Laguna Beach. After inviting students to his studio, Gross realized many faced challenges exploring careers due to limited exposure in schools. “Find Your Grind gives them the tools to explore not just what careers are out there, but what paths suit their strengths, interests, and visions for their future,” Gross told TechCrunch.
The platform focuses on four key competencies: self-awareness, career awareness, social awareness, and action awareness. Students complete a Lifestyle Assessment that identifies three lifestyle paths aligned with their interests, such as entertainer, creator, or humanitarian. They then receive a tailored plan for next steps after graduation.
Find Your Grind also offers videos, interactive lessons, and mentorship from figures like Tony Hawk, Tony Hoffman, and will.i.am. An AI-powered “Reflective Coach” provides personalized feedback to help students gain deeper insights into their strengths and career preferences.
The company runs workforce development initiatives like lifestyle fairs, offering students real-world exposure to careers in their hometowns. The first program is being launched in Oklahoma City, with plans to expand to additional cities.
To date, Find Your Grind has supported 100,000 students, with Gross aiming to reach over a million students and prepare them to be more future-ready.