Kane County Sheriff's Jail Mentoring Program Inspires Plans for Small Business

​

For the past six years, the Kane County Sheriff’s Office has offered a small business competition for detainees at the Kane County Jail as part of its various diversion programs aimed at reducing recidivism rates.

This year, a record 19 detainees signed up to participate in the program and received coaching from Waubonsee Community College’s Small Business Development Center to develop their business plans.

Finalists had three minutes to pitch their ideas to a panel of local volunteer citizens judges, who also provided feedback for improvement.

This year’s proposals included a nonprofit trade center to help individuals turn their talents into job skills, an investment firm focused on creating affordable housing, a landscaping company, a concrete business, and a kennel for breeding purebred dogs. There were also plans for food services paired with books, daycare services, or mobile food trucks.

Judges evaluated contestants based on creativity, business understanding and pitch delivery.

The winners presented plans for an organic recycling service, a nonprofit using basketball tournaments to keep kids out of gangs, and a business focused on improving clients' physical, mental and financial health.

Winners received certificates and were eligible for up to 10 days of good behavior credit. At least two past winners have successfully launched businesses, including a catering company and a transportation service.

On September 17, 2024, the Kane County Sheriff's Office will host a dedication ceremony to launch the first-of-its-kind Small Business Development Center inside a correctional facility. Operated by Waubonsee Community College, the center will provide essential resources and support to incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals, empowering them to start and sustain successful businesses.