P.R.I.D.E Entrepreneurial Program

The P.R.I.D.E. Entrepreneurial Program is an organization sponsored by the Connecticut Network of Care which serves individuals during reentry. The purpose of the program is to provide concrete support and services for formerly incarcerated individuals that will help them develop marketable skills and enter the workforce after release. Eligible individuals include incarcerated individuals, formerly incarcerated individuals and individuals with criminal conviction. The program itself spans 10 weeks and establishes a foundation for participants to become successful entrepreneurs and work toward self-sufficient living. P.R.I.D.E. Entrepreneurial Program believes that the most important part of ensuring successful reentry into the community is financial independence, and learning how to operate as entrepreneurs helps address the typical barriers that individuals with a criminal conviction face. Participants learn the specifics of legal requirements around owning a business, accounting, bookkeeping, insurance options and developing business plans. All participants are paired with a mentor who offers first-hand knowledge about the world of business and guides them toward graduation from the program.