Crime Prevention and Recidivism Reduction through Support and Entrepreneurship Opportunities

For many operating one’s own business is the quintessential American Dream. While attainable, it is not without significant challenges. For those that have been incarcerated the challenges are multiplied: educational/knowledge gaps, experience, financial barriers, legal issues and support issues. Education and work experiences are the biggest factors. The Queens Economic Development Corporation (QEDC) is prepared to address these obstacles through a program comprised of the following components: recruitment, assessment, counseling, and mentorships. Working with local organizational partners that provide comprehensive services for the formerly incarcerated, we will recruit and assess their clients who desire to own and operate a small business. All clients will be required to undergo classes in basic business knowledge.  Upon satisfactory completion, they would advance to specialized training in their selected interest. While we have classes in selected fields, most training will be done individually using QEDC counselors. Clients will be assigned mentors. As many formerly incarcerated may not have had role models in the entrepreneurial world, we believe the mentor-client relationship is vital. During the program we will coordinate all efforts with our partner organizations that provide support in other areas of the client’s life.  Though this grant is finite, all those who participate will remain QEDC clients beyond its term. Clients will be encouraged to take advantage of all QEDC programs in services including classes, continued counseling, funding opportunities and networking events and classes.