PEP + Families: Our Commitment Beyond the Walls

Why Families Are Part of the Mission PEP recognizes that a participant’s journey does not happen in isolation. Spouses, children and parents are deeply affected by incarceration and reentry. Providing support to families creates stronger outcomes and more lasting change for everyone involved. Pre-Release Inclusion Before release, PEP invites families to informational sessions that explain […]

A Look Inside PEP’s Business Curriculum

Building a Foundation for Success The Prison Entrepreneurship Program (PEP) offers a comprehensive business education designed to equip incarcerated individuals with the skills needed to succeed upon release. This curriculum, often referred to as a mini-MBA, provides participants with practical knowledge and hands-on experience in business development. Curriculum Structure PEP’s business curriculum spans several months […]

Inside the PEP Interview Process

A Rigorous Path to Transformation The Prison Entrepreneurship Program (PEP) is not open to everyone. It is a highly competitive, character-driven program that seeks individuals who are ready to change their lives. The selection process is designed to identify those who demonstrate commitment, accountability, and a genuine desire for personal growth. Step 1: Eligibility Screening […]

Why We Teach Business Ethics in Prison

Business Is Not Just About Profit At the Prison Entrepreneurship Program, we believe business education must begin with character. It is not enough to teach how to build a business. We must also teach why that business should be built on integrity. That is why ethics is woven into every part of PEP’s curriculum. From […]

What Is a Business Plan Competition in Prison?

Turning Ideas Into Action Behind Bars At the core of the Prison Entrepreneurship Program is a challenge that changes lives: the Business Plan Competition. This capstone experience gives participants the chance to take an idea from concept to execution inside a Texas prison, while gaining the tools and confidence to build a legitimate business after […]

What’s Coming in 2025 for PEP (Programs, Events, Growth)

Building on Momentum After two decades of transformative impact, the Prison Entrepreneurship Program is entering 2025 with a renewed focus on expanding access and deepening impact. From curriculum enhancements to event growth and reentry services, the coming year will reflect PEP’s ongoing commitment to long-term transformation through education and community. Enhanced In-Prison Programs PEP is […]

How PEP Transforms Inmates into Entrepreneurs

A Pathway from Prison to Purpose Entrepreneurship requires resilience, vision, and the ability to adapt. These are qualities that many incarcerated individuals have already developed through personal adversity. At PEP, we help refine those traits into tools for business leadership. Our process guides participants step by step, from incarceration to successful reentry, through education, mentorship, […]

What is the Prison Entrepreneurship Program?

Unlocking Potential Behind Bars At PEP, we believe in second chances, and we believe that transformation begins from within. Since 2004, the Prison Entrepreneurship Program has equipped incarcerated men in Texas with the character development, business training, and post-release support they need to thrive. More than a reentry program, PEP is a launching pad for […]