My journey as the founder of The Underdog Collective began with personal experiences of being marginalized, stereotyped, and dismissed by mainstream society. These struggles ignited a fire within me, compelling me to create a space where others facing similar challenges could find support, empowerment, and a sense of belonging.

 

Give Back, Never Give In.

 

Drawing from my own experiences overcoming adversity, I realized the strength that emerges when those who have been dismissed or overlooked come together as a united force. I wanted to share this revelation with others and offer a helping hand to those in need. So, with a deep sense of empathy and a desire to make a difference, I embarked on the journey of creating The Underdog Collective.

My belief in the inherent value and potential of every individual fueled my passion for this endeavor. I want to challenge societal norms, break down barriers, and create a community where everyone's voice will be heard, valued, and amplified. The Collective's ethos revolves around compassion, inclusivity, and a shared commitment to serving others.

We re-invest 50% of our net profit to provide resources for aspiring entrepreneurs from under-resourced populations, such as covering college application fees, scholarships for training, paid mentorship arrangements, and much more. Contact us to learn more about our scholarships. 

I draw upon my experience Academically and Professionally to serve others through Education and Career Navigation Support, Entrepreneurship, and Skill Development across a wide array of fields. Professionally, I have been fortunate to work in some exciting fields for some of the world's most beloved brands. These fields include Design, Digital Marketing, Product Management, and Software Engineering for companies like Fjord, Accenture, Porsche Digital, Lululemon, and numerous Chicago area startups. Academically, I have worked tirelessly to increase my value as a team member by earning an MBA, a Master's in Information Systems, and a Doctorate in Education (in progress) from organizations such as Robert Morris University (Illinois), Northwestern University, and Baylor University, respectively.

I know firsthand how hard it is to reach your full potential when it feels like all the cards are stacked against you. We are here to support you however we can. Thank you for being here. I look forward to working alongside you. 

Our success comes from the few who gave us nothing when we needed a chance, and from the few who gave us a chance when they owed us nothing. It is my mission to inspire more of the latter. 

Erik Miller