10 Success Stories Of Former Inmates Building Thriving Businesses
Engaged in securities fraud; founded Defy Ventures
Business
Defy Ventures is an innovative program founded by Catherine Hoke that recognizes and nurtures the untapped potential of people who have been in prison.
The organization offers thorough training, mentorship, and support to help these individuals start, launch, and grow their own businesses.
Imprisoned for running a multi-million dollar drug operation in New York City. During his time in prison, he developed a fitness routine that became the foundation for his business.
Business:
ConBody is a fitness company that offers prison-style workout classes both online and at their studio in New York. The company reportedly has annual revenues of around $1 million, with a growing number of subscribers and corporate clients.
Convicted of felony fraud by embezzlement; founded Breaking Free Industries.
Business:
Breaking Free Industries, founded by Josh Nowack, is an innovative enterprise that focuses on creating employment opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals. The company primarily engages in printing T-shirts and other merchandise, serving as a platform for those returning from prison to rebuild their lives and careers.
Had legal troubles in his youth related to drug offences but turned his life around by focusing on brewing.
Business:
Street Brewery is a well-known craft brewery in Indiana, producing a variety of beers. The company has expanded to multiple locations and reportedly generates several million dollars in annual revenue, reflecting its popularity and success in the craft beer market.
Served time in prison for a carjacking he committed as a teenager. His experiences inspired him to create a way for families to stay connected with incarcerated loved ones.
Business:
Flikshop is a service that allows people to send postcards to prisoners through an app. The company has sent over half a million postcards and generates annual revenues in the mid-six figures, with continued growth as more users adopt the service.
Committed bank robberies; founded AppealTech, a company that assists attorneys with the preparation of appellate briefs.
Business:
After serving almost 11 years in prison, Shon turned his life around dramatically. During his incarceration, he developed a keen interest in the law, which led him to start working on legal briefs for other inmates. His notable success in this unlikely role garnered attention from legal scholars and the media alike.
Incarcerated for drugs and robbery; co-founded Code.7370, a coding program for inmates.
Business:
Code.7370, co-founded by Kenyatta Leal, is a groundbreaking initiative within San Quentin State Prison that teaches incarcerated individuals how to code. This program equips participants with highly marketable skills, preparing them for technology jobs upon their release.
Through a partnership with The Last Mile, Code.7370 addresses the challenges of reentry by providing both professional training and economic opportunities, significantly reducing the chances of recidivism and helping individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose.
Had minor legal issues in his youth but later became a Zen Buddhist teacher and social entrepreneur.
Business
Greyston Bakery, founded by Bernie Glassman, is renowned for its socially responsible business model. Located in Yonkers, New York, the bakery provides employment opportunities to individuals who are often deemed unemployable, such as the homeless, ex-convicts, and recovering addicts.
Served 15 years in prison for multiple offenses, including drug distribution, burglary, armed robbery, and assault. Founded and sold Dave's Killer Bread
Business
Dave's Killer Bread, co-founded by Dave Dahl, has become a prominent brand known for its organic, whole-grain breads. This business provides high-quality products and stands out for its commitment to social justice issues, particularly the employment of ex-convicts.
The company was sold for $275 million in 2015 and continues to grow, with annual revenues exceeding $100 million.
Convicted of securities fraud, narcotics trafficking, obstruction of justice, and possession of weapons. Founded Wall Street Prison Consultants
Business:
Wall Street Prison Consultants, founded by Larry Jay Levine, offers a unique service by providing legal advice and guidance to inmates and their families, helping them navigate the complexities of the prison system.
Levine, drawing on his own experiences from a 10-year federal prison sentence, created this consultancy to assist others in understanding their rights, the legal system, and how to prepare for life during and after incarceration.