A group of women at the Pike County Jail are gaining new tools to rebuild their futures through a unique entrepreneurship series launched by Troy University’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC).

The initiative, titled “New Start Up,” began April 30 with a 90-minute session introducing participants to the entrepreneurial mindset, self-reflection, and the idea that business ownership can begin with creativity, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose. The program is delivered in partnership with the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and the Sorrell College of Business.

Juliana Bolivar, Director of the Troy University SBDC, said the idea for the program grew out of her experience supporting justice-impacted individuals over the years—some while still incarcerated, including developing business plans through the mail, and others after release when entrepreneurship offered a path forward despite employment barriers.

“This time, these women are getting access to real tools, exposure to emerging technologies, and a chance to see themselves differently,” Bolivar said. “Our goal is to show that entrepreneurship is not reserved for people with resources. It can begin with vision and willingness.”

Pike County Sheriff Russell Thomas called the program an innovative way to get inmates thinking about their futures.

“Any time we can have a positive impact on their lives – a way to show them that they can still be successful members of the community – we’re winning the game,” he said. “Studies have proven that when inmates are engaged in meaningful thought, skills building, and hope, recidivism rates drop, and the inmate goes on to live a productive life.”

“The Small Business Development Center at TROY is giving hope, support and learning opportunities that will lay the foundation for these ladies’ future success,” he said.

Participants were introduced to how modern tools can support idea development, strategic thinking, and the practical skills required to launch a business—such as planning, time management, and communication.

The New Start Up series will continue with four additional seminars covering business basics, marketing, small business finances, and professionalism. Sessions are designed to be practical and accessible, focusing on ways participants can use their strengths to build opportunity for themselves and their families.

“If we were able to support justice-impacted individuals in building business plans years ago—before the technology we have today—then I truly believe we can go even further now,” Bolivar said. “The energy in the room, the questions, the ideas—it was inspiring to see how ready these women are to learn, to grow, and to take ownership of their futures.”

Bolivar expressed deep gratitude for Pike County Sheriff Russell Thomas, whose support made the initiative possible.

“It takes a leader in our correctional system to believe that there is hope and that we can contribute to positive change,” she said. “We are so grateful to Sheriff Thomas and his team for welcoming this program and trusting us to bring these resources inside. Their belief in this model made all the difference.”

The SBDC at Troy University provides free business consulting and training to entrepreneurs across Southeast Alabama. The New Start Up series is one of several efforts aimed at expanding access to entrepreneurial education in underserved communities.

For more information, visit www.asbdc.org/tu.