A Free 12-Week Entrepreneurship Program for Formerly Incarcerated Individuals

Have a business idea? We’ll help you bring it to life!

The Comeback Catalyst program is a 12-week virtual course designed to provide formerly incarcerated individuals with the tools, mentorship, and confidence to start and grow their own businesses. We believe that entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool for financial stability, and our program is designed to help participants gain the skills, knowledge, and network needed to succeed.

This program is tailored to meet participants wherever they are in their journey. Whether they want to start a food business, clothing brand, trades service, online store, or another type of venture, Comeback Catalyst provides practical business training and real-world connections to set them up for success.

Classmates working together

Who Can Apply?

We welcome applications from individuals who:

  • Have a history of incarceration and are looking for a second chance

  • Have a business idea they are passionate about pursuing

  • Are at least 18 years old

  • Reside in Canada

Classmates engaging in conversation

Program Format

  • 90-minute virtual sessions, once per week

  • Self-paced coursework with approximately 1-2 hours of work per week

  • Opportunities for additional mentorship and networking outside of class

  • Demo Day: Final week of the program

Classmates engaging in group activity

What You’ll Gain

Participants will complete the program with a fully developed business plan, hands-on business experience, and a strong support network. Key benefits include:

  • Live Weekly Sessions – Led by experienced entrepreneurs and subject matter experts, each session focuses on essential business skills.

  • One-on-One Mentorship – Participants work with mentors who provide guidance, help refine business plans, and offer industry insights.

  • Hands-on Training – From branding and financial literacy to operations and marketing, the program provides real-world, actionable strategies.

  • Community & Networking – A supportive network of peers, mentors, and industry professionals committed to helping participants succeed.

  • Demo Day – The program culminates in a pitch event where participants showcase their businesses to potential investors and partners.

Each week, participants will focus on a key area of business development, gaining practical skills they can immediately apply to their ventures.

90-minute virtual sessions, once per week

Self-paced coursework with approximately 1-2 hours of work per week

Opportunities for additional mentorship and networking outside of class

By the end of the program, participants will have developed the knowledge, confidence, and skills to launch their own businesses, increase their income, and create opportunities for themselves and their communities.

This isn’t just about learning business fundamentals—it’s about building a future where second chances lead to lasting success.

Ready to start your journey?