Transforming Policy Into Progress

At The Bolden Group, we deliver strategic, evidence-based policy consulting to help leaders solve complex challenges in education, workforce development, and economic growth. We partner with public, private, and philanthropic stakeholders to design innovative policies that are inclusive, scalable, and built for real-world impact.

Our experts utilize cutting-edge data science and integrated systems to provide evidence-based solutions to policymakers, businesses, advocates, philanthropist, and communities across the US.

Our approach blends rigorous research, systems thinking, and human-centered design to ensure that every policy solution we propose is not only feasible—but future-ready. From local communities to national initiatives, we help clients make smarter decisions that shape a more equitable and prosperous society.

Our Services

  • We work with school systems, higher education institutions, and government agencies to modernize education policy and advance equity. Our services include postsecondary access and completion strategies, K-12 innovation policy, dual enrollment, and education-to-career alignment.
    Example Projects:

    • Rural college access strategies

    • Dual enrollment equity gap analysis

    • Postsecondary readiness frameworks

  • We bring deep expertise in work-based learning, credentialing systems, and cross-sector workforce initiatives. Our team helps design policies that close skills gaps, expand equitable access to career pathways, and align talent development with economic mobility.
    Example Projects:

    • State apprenticeship strategy development

    • Work-based learning policy roadmaps

    • Sector-based training and credentialing

  • We help communities and coalitions design inclusive economic strategies that foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and place-based growth. Our work supports the creation of resilient economies that work for everyone—especially underserved populations.
    Example Projects:

    • Equitable entrepreneurship ecosystems

    • Local and regional economic competitiveness strategy

    • Small business policy development

  • Out experts utilize cutting-edge data science and integrated systems to provide evidence-based solutions to policymakers, businesses, advocates, philanthropist, and communities across the US.

We are a trusted source for fact-based research that produces new knowledge about some of the most complex social and economic issues in the US.

What Our Clients Say

  • Lori Frazier-Bearden, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Employment and Training, U.S. Department of Labor

    “Dr. Nicholas Bolden is an emerging leader in workforce development. I worked closely with Dr. Bolden on projects witnessing firsthand his abilities to bring success to its’ implementation including his role serving as a Senior Workforce Consultant for Governor Ivey’s Work-based Learning Initiative funded by the National Governor’s Association (NGA.) He provided insightful contributions through his direct experiences and research. I would recommend Dr. Bolden’s consulting services to states and local governments who need an experienced leader to bring expertise to their workforce efforts.”