Myth-Busting: What Most People Get Wrong About Prisoners
Breaking the Narrative The conversation about incarceration in America is often shaped by fear, stereotypes, and outdated assumptions. These narratives affect public policy, hiring decisions, and how returning citizens are treated when they reenter society. At the Prison Entrepreneurship Program, we work with men who are proving those narratives wrong every day. To move forward […]
The Truth About Recidivism—and How PEP Breaks the Cycle
What Is Recidivism? Recidivism refers to the tendency of a person with a criminal conviction to reoffend and return to prison. It is a major challenge within the U.S. justice system and one of the key indicators used to measure the effectiveness of reentry and rehabilitation programs. Nationally, the recidivism rate remains high. Studies show […]
PEP by the Numbers: 2024 Impact Recap
Transforming Lives Through Measurable Outcomes In 2024, the Prison Entrepreneurship Program delivered strong results in reducing recidivism and creating opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals. The data below highlights the scope and effectiveness of the program’s impact. Building Stronger Communities PEP’s model combines in-prison education with post-release support to prepare participants for long-term success. This approach […]
Behind the Scenes: What Day One Looks Like in a PEP Class
A Structured Start The first day of a PEP class is focused, intentional, and unlike any other experience inside a correctional facility. Participants enter with questions and expectations. Many have heard that PEP is different. From the start, that difference is clear. Staff and volunteers greet participants by name. There are no titles, no formalities, […]
FAQ: Can You Start a Business from Prison?
Can You Start a Business While Incarcerated? Yes, but with limitations. In most prison systems, incarcerated individuals are not allowed to officially register or operate a business in their own name while serving time. However, many people begin developing business ideas, plans, and strategies during incarceration. Programs like the Prison Entrepreneurship Program (PEP) help participants […]
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, […]
Why Second Chances Matter: The Power of Reentry Support
Reframing the Measure of a Life It is common to define individuals by their worst decisions. A conviction, a prison sentence, or a criminal record can overshadow every other aspect of a person’s identity. But what if we chose instead to focus on who a person is becoming? At the Prison Entrepreneurship Program (PEP), we […]
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 […]
