Entrepreneurial Course for Former Inmates is Available

The Entrepreneurship as a Second Chance (ESC) initiative offers formerly incarcerated or court-involved individuals the opportunity to explore reentry into society through business ownership. In addition to intensive entrepreneurial training, two years of one-on-one mentoring, and business plan development, ESC will provide participants with the necessary tools for success.

The ESC program starts with a 7-week course, which includes classroom training and one-on-one counseling each week. Participants will create a viable business plan and will have two years of additional mentoring while they start their new businesses. ESC will provide the tools each business needs to be successful, including computers, business software, and the potential for start-up financing.

ESC is a highly competitive program, and those who apply will go through an in-depth screening process before being accepted to the program. Minimum requirements to qualify:

• Post-release for at least 1 year (ideally with one year’s tax return if available)
• Have recurring income from at least one part- or full-time job

For more information and questions, please contact Joe Lamberti, UCEDC Director of Training at jlamberti@ucedc.com or 908-358-3005.