As you navigate the complex landscape of reintegration, much like Odysseus seeking his way home, you may find support in Wyoming through grants for felons. The Second Chance Act offers community-based initiatives like job training and mental health services. Nonprofits and local organizations can apply for these grants without a match requirement. But what resources are available beyond these programs?
Key Takeaways
- Second Chance Act Grants: Available for reentry programs in Wyoming, focusing on reducing recidivism.
- Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs): Offer free consulting and training for entrepreneurs.
- SBA Microloans: Available up to $50,000 despite criminal records.
- Entrepreneurship and Skill Development: Programs like Defy Ventures provide business support for felons.
- Wyoming Pathways From Prison: Assists incarcerated individuals with higher education.
Overview of Federal Reentry Support for Wyoming Felons
Although reentering society after incarceration presents many challenges, Wyoming benefits from federal support under the Second Chance Act (SCA), which helps ease this transition for felons, including seniors and single parents.
The SCA authorizes grants that reduce recidivism and improve reentry outcomes by funding community-based mentoring, employment programs, mental health services, and family-focused support tailored to older adults and caregivers.
Administered by agencies such as the Bureau of Justice Assistance and the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, these grants strengthen Wyoming’s adult and youth reentry programs. Since 2009, more than 800 awards nationwide have reinforced reentry efforts, including services designed to support stability for seniors and single-parent households.
Wyoming State and Local Reentry Grant Programs
Wyoming state and local reentry grant programs play an essential role in supporting individuals who’ve been incarcerated as they transition back into society.
These initiatives use grant funding to focus on employment, housing, and mental health services.
Key aspects include:
- Employment Support: Job training and mentorship programs to improve employability.
- Collaborative Partnerships: Involvement of local nonprofits and government agencies.
- Holistic Reintegration: Comprehensive services to aid in successful reentry and reduce recidivism.
Nonprofit and Community-Based Organization Grants for Reentering Citizens
When nonprofit and community-based organizations apply for grants aimed at supporting individuals reentering society from incarceration, they can access federal funding that targets reducing recidivism and enhancing reintegration outcomes.
The Second Chance Act (SCA) offers grants for crucial programs such as job training, housing assistance, and mental health services.
Eligible applicants include state and local governments, Indian tribes, and nonprofits focused on reentry services, without a specific match requirement.
These grants also provide technical assistance to help you develop effective, evidence-based reentry programs aligned with federal guidelines to better support returning citizens.
Business Grants Specifically for Formerly Incarcerated Individuals
If you’re a formerly incarcerated individual looking to start or grow a business in Wyoming, several grants specifically target your unique challenges.
These opportunities can ease financial burdens and provide vital mentorship during your entrepreneurial journey. When preparing your grant application, focus on eligibility criteria and tailor your business plan accordingly.
Key grants to take into account include:
- The TRANSFORM Business Grant, which offers $1,000 plus a year-long customized business development program for marginalized entrepreneurs, including felons.
- NASE Growth Grants, providing up to $4,000 for business growth with a paid membership.
- Amber Grants and LEAP Virtual Entrepreneurship Academy, offering funds and training especially for women formerly incarcerated.
NASE Growth Grants and Member-Based Opportunities
Although you must be an NASE member in good standing to apply, membership offers benefits beyond eligibility for Growth Grants, including access to business and legal experts—support that can be especially valuable if you have a felony record and are working to start or expand a business.
The NASE Growth Grants provide up to $4,000 for expenses like marketing or hiring and are awarded quarterly, with membership starting at $11.95 per month.
While not felon-specific, these grants can complement federal initiatives that encourage entrepreneurship and workforce reintegration, and they may indirectly support access to health services by helping stabilize income, secure employer-sponsored coverage, or fund wellness-related business needs as your operation grows.
TRANSFORM Business Grant for Marginalized Entrepreneurs
You can investigate the TRANSFORM Business Grant, which offers $1,000 to marginalized entrepreneurs, including those with felony records.
This grant not only provides financial support but also includes a year-long business development and mentorship program, tailored to your specific business needs.
To apply, you’ll need to participate in one of the two annual online application windows, which typically open for a short period each year.
Grant Overview
The TRANSFORM Business Grant is a unique initiative that provides support to marginalized entrepreneurs, including those with felony convictions, by offering a $1,000 microgrant and a customized year-long business development program.
This grant program prioritizes your story and business idea over lengthy business plans, making the application process accessible. Recipients gain access to mentorship tailored to their specific needs to improve their skills and business growth.
Applications are accepted online twice yearly, with the next window running September 15-30, 2024.
Key features include:
- $1,000 funding plus a personalized development plan
- Year-long mentorship addressing individual business challenges
- Focus on marginalized communities and social impact entrepreneurs.
Application Process
As you prepare to apply for the TRANSFORM Business Grant, you’ll find that the process is designed to be straightforward and accessible, focusing on your entrepreneurial story rather than a complex business plan. Here’s an overview of the key components:
| Component | Eligibility | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Grant Amount | $1,000 grant | Financial support |
| Mentorship | Year-long program | Pro bono services |
| Application Style | Story-based | Easy to apply |
This grant is part of various programs supporting marginalized entrepreneurs, including felons, through these grants.
Amber Grants for Women-Owned Businesses
You qualify for the Amber Grant if you’re a woman 18 or older with at least 50% ownership of a U.S. or Canadian business.
The application is straightforward, requiring a simple form and a $15 fee, emphasizing your personal story over a detailed business plan.
Winning grants include three monthly awards of $10,000 each and a $25,000 year-end grant, plus access to valuable mentorship and resources tailored for women entrepreneurs, including those with felony backgrounds.
Eligibility Criteria
If you’re considering applying for an Amber Grant, it’s essential to meet the eligibility criteria. You must be at least 18 years old and a woman who owns at least 50% of a business operating in the U.S. or Canada.
The program is deliberately inclusive—you can apply even if you have a felony conviction or are a formerly incarcerated individual, as long as you meet the ownership and age requirements. Your application centers on your business story, not a complex business plan, so unique or non-traditional backgrounds are welcomed. No industry restrictions or prior business success are required.
- Ownership: You must be a woman with at least 50% ownership of your business.
- Location: Your business must operate in the U.S. or Canada.
- Inclusivity: Formerly incarcerated people and those with felonies are explicitly eligible if they meet other requirements.
The Amber Grants prioritize your passion and vision over background checks or credit history, offering a genuine opportunity to women from all walks of life.
Application Process
To apply for an Amber Grant, you’ll submit a straightforward, online application that focuses on your business story rather than a detailed business plan. The process is accessible, even if you’re just starting out—pay a $15 application fee, share your entrepreneurial journey, and explain how the grant would help your business grow. You don’t need prior experience, but you must be at least 18, own at least half your business, and live in the U.S. or Canada. Once submitted, you’re also eligible for mentorship, connecting you with experienced business owners for ongoing support and advice. The Amber Grant’s application is as simple as your first step toward funding.
| Step | What You Need to Do |
|---|---|
| Prepare | Craft a compelling business story, not a full business plan. |
| Apply Online | Complete the simple form and pay the $15 application fee. |
| Await & Grow | If selected, access grant funds and mentorship opportunities. |
Eligible women—including those with felony convictions—can confidently pursue this grant; the focus is on your potential, not your past. The Amber Grant makes the process clear, supportive, and empowering for every applicant.
Grant Benefits
Although women with felony convictions often face significant barriers to traditional financing, Amber Grants offer a valuable opportunity by providing substantial, no-repay funding designed specifically for women-owned businesses.
You can receive monthly $10,000 grants, with a chance to win a $25,000 grant at year’s end, helping you build your business without debt.
Amber Grants act as a Second Chance Act Grant by prioritizing marginalized women, including those with felony records.
The program also has ongoing support through business experts and resources, boosting your chances of success.
- $10,000 monthly grants plus $25,000 annual grants
- No repayment required, easing financial burdens
- Supportive network tailored for women entrepreneurs, especially those needing a second chance
LEAP Virtual Entrepreneurship Academy for Women Felons
The LEAP Virtual Entrepreneurship Academy is a dynamic program designed specifically for women who have been formerly incarcerated. It offers a 12-week training focused on building essential business skills.
| Program Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | 12 weeks |
| Access | Online sessions |
| Funding | Up to $1,000 microloan |
| Support | Mentorship from entrepreneurs |
This program helps participants pitch their ideas and secure funding, empowering them to become successful entrepreneurs.
Rural Innovation Stronger Economy Grants for Rural Entrepreneurs
As you investigate opportunities for rural entrepreneurs, the Rural Innovation Stronger Economy (RISE) Grants offer an essential source of funding for projects that improve economic development and job creation in rural areas.
These grants support initiatives like workforce training and innovative solutions, potentially benefiting underserved populations, including formerly incarcerated individuals.
Rural Economic Development
When rural communities receive USDA Rural Innovation Stronger Economy (RISE) Grants, they gain targeted support to develop economic opportunities that can directly benefit entrepreneurs, including those with felony convictions looking to rebuild through business ownership.
These grants empower nonprofit organizations, local governments, and educational institutions to provide workforce development, business planning, and entrepreneurial training programs tailored to returning citizens.
RISE Grants focus on creating sustainable enterprises that foster job creation and economic resilience.
Key benefits include:
- Supporting business incubators and training programs for felons
- Promoting collaboration among nonprofits to aid reentry populations
- Reducing recidivism by encouraging entrepreneurship in rural areas
Entrepreneur Training Support
To utilize the Rural Innovation Stronger Economy (RISE) Grants for entrepreneur training support, you can tap into funding designed to propel rural entrepreneurship forward. These grants support programs that help formerly incarcerated individuals develop essential business skills like management, marketing, and operations tailored to rural challenges. Community organizations can apply to offer training that empowers felons to launch sustainable businesses, fostering local economic growth through partnerships with governments, nonprofits, and educational institutions.
| Funding Purpose | Target Group | Supported Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Entrepreneur Training | Formerly Incarcerated Individuals | Business management, marketing, operational strategies |
| Capacity Building | Community-Based Organizations | Delivering entrepreneurship training |
| Economic Growth | Rural Communities | Creating jobs and supporting business creation |
The Role of Small Business Development Centers in Wyoming
Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) in Wyoming play an essential role in helping entrepreneurs, including those with felony convictions, overcome barriers to starting and growing their businesses.
They provide you with free consulting, workshops, and training programs focused on business planning, marketing, and financial management.
By working with government agencies and local partners, SBDCs guarantee you access funding opportunities like grants and loans tailored to your challenges.
Key support includes:
- Assistance in developing strong business plans to secure funding
- Guidance on maneuvering grants and loan programs
- Connections to entrepreneurship resources through government agencies
Entrepreneurship and Skill Development Programs for Felons
If you’re a formerly incarcerated individual in Wyoming, you can access tailored entrepreneurship and skill development programs—such as Defy Ventures or Inmates to Entrepreneurs—that offer courses, mentorship, and practical support to help you launch and grow your own business. Programs like LEAP Virtual Entrepreneurship Academy and TRANSFORM Business Grant provide not only training but also microloans and year-long mentorship, specifically designed to address the unique challenges you might face. These initiatives equip you with essential business skills, foster self-reliance, and aim to reduce recidivism by opening pathways to economic stability and community reintegration.
Programs Overview
Although you face many challenges after incarceration, entrepreneurship and skill development programs for felons in Wyoming provide practical pathways to business ownership and self-sufficiency.
These programs support systems reform by equipping you with tools and mentorship needed to succeed in entrepreneurship. Key initiatives include:
- Defy Ventures, which offers mentorship and training to launch and grow your business.
- Prison Entrepreneurship Program (PEP), a four-month curriculum plus a Baylor University certificate tailored for your reentry.
- LEAP Virtual Academy, providing a $1,000 microloan and 12-week training focused on women’s unique needs.
Such programs foster skills, confidence, and social capital essential for your success.
Skill Development
You’re likely to find entrepreneurship and skill development programs in Wyoming provide you with hands-on training and mentorship designed to launch and grow your own business after incarceration.
Programs like Defy Ventures and the Prison Entrepreneurship Program offer intensive curricula and personalized mentorship, boosting your business skills and confidence.
LEAP’s Virtual Entrepreneurship Academy even provides microloans and pitch competitions, specifically supporting formerly incarcerated women.
These initiatives focus on essential skills—marketing, customer service, and business planning—to prepare you for self-sufficiency.
Accessing skill development through such programs can improve your employment prospects and lower recidivism by empowering you as a business owner.
Entrepreneurship Support
Entrepreneurship support programs in Wyoming empower formerly incarcerated individuals by providing targeted training, mentorship, and financial resources to help launch and grow small businesses.
Whether you’re hoping to start an enterprise or expand an existing one, specialized initiatives aim to lower barriers you might face after incarceration. You’ll find that such programs not only help build your confidence and business acumen, but they also offer critical access to capital and networks that often remain out of reach for justice-involved entrepreneurs.
- Targeted programs like the Prison Entrepreneurship Program deliver both business education and wraparound post-release support, helping you develop practical entrepreneurship and personal skills that improve your likelihood of long-term success.
- Grants and microloans are available to jumpstart your business idea—programs such as the LEAP Virtual Entrepreneurship Academy and the TRANSFORM Business Grant offer financial backing alongside mentorship, designed specifically for those reentering society.
- Online platforms, such as Inmates to Entrepreneurs, provide free, self-paced courses covering essential business topics, giving you the flexibility to learn at your own pace regardless of location or background.
Whether through in-person, virtual, or hybrid models, entrepreneurship support for formerly incarcerated people in Wyoming and beyond creates real opportunities for economic independence and meaningful reintegration into your community.
Financial Resources Beyond Grants: Loans, Investors, and Crowdfunding
Beyond grants, there are several financial resources available to support individuals with felony convictions in Wyoming.
You can investigate loans, such as SBA microloans, which offer up to $50,000 and are accessible despite criminal records.
Angel investors provide financial backing, often focusing on community impact.
Additionally, crowdfunding platforms allow you to raise funds from the public, bypassing traditional loan requirements.
Online lenders also cater to borrowers with poor credit, though they often charge higher interest rates.
These financial resources can help you fund your business venture.
Wyoming Pathways From Prison: Higher Education and Reentry
While incarcerated or after release, you can access Wyoming Pathways from Prison, a University of Wyoming-led program that helps formerly and currently incarcerated individuals pursue higher education as an essential step in reentry.
This program offers educational opportunities to reduce recidivism.
Key aspects include:
- Support for earning a Bachelor in General Studies degree
- Collaboration with the Wyoming Department of Corrections
- Funding from grants and local organizations to improve access to education.
Major Donors and Foundation Support for Justice Initiatives in Wyoming
Major donors and foundations play a significant role in supporting justice initiatives in Wyoming by providing critical funding that improves educational access and reentry services for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals. Thanks to contributions from major donors like the UW Foundation Board, McMurry Foundation, and Jim and Jill Anderson, the Wyoming Pathways from Prison program has expanded access to college education for inmates. These donors help meet fundraising goals and match funds, ensuring incarcerated students can pursue degrees that reduce recidivism and support successful reintegration.
| Donor/Foundation | Contribution |
|---|---|
| UW Foundation Board | $50,000 match |
| McMurry Foundation | $50,000 match |
| Jim and Jill Anderson | $100,000 donation |
Current Challenges and Considerations for Felons Seeking Funding in Wyoming
Because having a felony record in Wyoming can complicate access to financial resources, you need to understand both the systemic barriers and the real opportunities available for funding your reintegration or business venture.
Discrimination and poor credit histories often hinder traditional loan eligibility. However, options like government grants and nonprofit support can provide vital assistance.
Key considerations include:
- Nonprofit Organizations: Such as Inmates to Entrepreneurs, which offers training and mentorship.
- Government Grants: Programs like the Second Chance Act Grants can aid reentry and entrepreneurship.
- Credit Challenges: Alternative funding sources are essential due to credit issues.
State-by-State Grants for Felons: Quick Summary of Support & Eligibility
| Alabama | Discusses Alabama grants and assistance for felons reentering society, including employment and training programs. |
| Alaska | Covers Alaska support for felons, including workforce grants, housing aid, and reintegration resources. |
| Arizona | Explains Arizona assistance and grants aimed at felons for job training, education, and reintegration help. |
| Arkansas | Summarizes Arkansas programs and grants that help felons with employment access and reentry support. |
| California | Details California grants and financial aid options for felons seeking education, jobs, or housing support. |
| Colorado | Covers Colorado’s felon grant resources, workforce training funds, and reintegration aid information. |
| Connecticut | Discusses Connecticut’s financial support and program options for felons, including training and placement. |
| Delaware | Summarizes Delaware assistance for felons, including reintegration, employment support, and grants. |
| Florida | Explains Florida grants and support programs for felons, focusing on jobs, training, and reentry resources. |
| Georgia | Details Georgia programs and available grants for felons seeking employment and life stability support. |
| Hawaii | Covers Hawaii assistance options for felons including grants for job readiness and reintegration services. |
| Idaho | Summarizes Idaho support for felons, including employment grants, training help, and reintegration aid. |
| Illinois | Explains Illinois felon grant options, workforce development funds, and reentry program support. |
| Indiana | Discusses Indiana assistance for felons including job training, grants, and reintegration resources. |
| Iowa | Summarizes Iowa felon grant programs, employment training funds, and reintegration supports. |
| Kansas | Covers Kansas resources and grants for felons focusing on job placement and life skills aid. |
| Kentucky | Explains Kentucky assistance and grant opportunities for felons seeking work and stability. |
| Louisiana | Details Louisiana support programs and felon grants for workforce access and reentry help. |
| Maine | Summarizes Maine grants and assistance for felons including training and income support options. |
| Maryland | Covers Maryland felon support programs with grant info for employment and reintegration. |
| Massachusetts | Explains Massachusetts grants and funding for felons for work, education, and reintegration. |
| Michigan | Details Michigan assistance options and grant programs for felons seeking jobs and stability. |
| Minnesota | Summarizes Minnesota felon grant resources including job training and reentry support. |
| Mississippi | Covers Mississippi assistance for felons including grants and workforce training options. |
| Missouri | Explains Missouri grant and support programs available to felons for employment and reintegration. |
| Montana | Summarizes Montana assistance and grant programs for felons including training and placement help. |
| Nebraska | Details Nebraska resources for felons with grant info for work readiness and reintegration. |
| Nevada | Covers Nevada assistance programs and felon grants focusing on employment and reintegration aid. |
| New Hampshire | Summarizes New Hampshire felon support, including grant programs for job training and reintegration. |
| New Jersey | Explains New Jersey felon grant opportunities with a focus on job readiness and support services. |
| New Mexico | Covers New Mexico resources and grant programs for felons aimed at employment and reintegration. |
| New York | Summarizes New York felon grant options for education, jobs, and support during reentry. |
| North Carolina | Details North Carolina’s felon support and grant programs for work, training and reintegration. |
| North Dakota | Covers North Dakota assistance and grants for felons focusing on employment and stability. |
| Ohio | Explains Ohio’s felon grant resources for job training, education, and reentry aid. |
| Oklahoma | Summarizes Oklahoma support programs and free grant info for felons seeking employment. |
| Oregon | Covers Oregon’s felon grants and assistance programs for training, jobs, and reintegration help. |
| Pennsylvania | Details Pennsylvania grant and support options for felons involving job readiness and aid. |
| Rhode Island | Summarizes Rhode Island’s felon support, including grants for workforce training and reintegration. |
| South Carolina | Covers South Carolina felon grant programs focusing on jobs, skills, and reentry support. |
| South Dakota | Explains South Dakota assistance grants for felons, including training and job access support. |
| Tennessee | Summarizes Tennessee felon grants and workforce programs for reentry success. |
| Texas | Details Texas felon support grants, employment assistance, and training program coverage. |
| Utah | Covers Utah’s felon grant resources focusing on job training and reintegration help. |
| Vermont | Summarizes Vermont assistance grants for felons including work support and training. |
| Virginia | Explains Virginia’s felon grants and workforce supports including reintegration aid. |
| Washington | Covers Washington state felon assistance programs and relevant grants for job, training, and stability. |
| West Virginia | Summarizes West Virginia felon support and grant programs focused on employment and skills. |
| Wisconsin | Details Wisconsin felon grant resources for training, employment, and community reintegration. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Grants Can Felons Get?
You can access grants like the TRANSFORM Business Grant, NASE Growth Grants, and federal Second Chance Act programs that support employment opportunities and entrepreneurship for felons, helping you gain skills, start businesses, and reduce recidivism. Additionally, Wyoming offers the Pathway Home 3 Grant focused on workforce reentry and job readiness for formerly incarcerated individuals.
What Is the Wyoming Grant Assistance Program?
You can utilize the Wyoming Grant Assistance Program (WYGAP) for technical aid in accessing resources. It supports local governments and nonprofits in managing grants, though it doesn’t directly fund justice initiatives.
What Is the Second Chance Act Grant Money?
The Second Chance Act grant money provides you with federal funding to support reentry programs that reduce recidivism by offering services like employment, housing, treatment, and family support for individuals returning from incarceration. It improves your access to comprehensive reentry support designed to better outcomes and public safety.
What Benefits Are Ex-Felons Eligible For?
You’re eligible for various benefits, including the Second Chance Act grants, small business grants, educational programs like Wyoming Pathways from Prison, workforce development initiatives, and nonprofit resources offering financial assistance and skill-building Employment Opportunities.
Conclusion
You’ve got access to a network of grants designed to turn past mistakes into new opportunities—whether through the federal Second Chance Act’s support for employment and mental health, Wyoming’s state initiatives linking you to real jobs, or business grants fueling entrepreneurship. Remember, these resources are the stepping stones, not just handouts, helping you rebuild with purpose. The journey may be steep, but with these supports behind you, the horizon holds more than just hope—it offers a new path forward.