The Entrepreneurship as a Second Chance (ESC) initiative offers formerly incarcerated or court-involved individuals the opportunity to explore re-entry into society through business ownership.

 

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

 

Applicants should have a solid business idea and practical experience in that field. UCEDC will help participants finish writing the business plan for their proposed business. 

 

ESC is a highly competitive program, and those who apply will go through an in-depth screening process before being accepted to the program. Must be post-release for at least one year and have recurring income from at least one part- or full-time job.

 

This ESC session will meet (virtually) every Wednesday from Oct. 4 through Nov. 15. Applications are now open. Deadline is Aug. 26. For more information and questions, contact Program Coordinator Timothy Moore at tmoore@ucedc.com or 609-454-8857.