Entrepreneurial Hope Behind Bars: Second chance month event comes to Davidson Correctional Center

In recognition of April as Second Chance Month, a nationally renowned entrepreneur is bringing his message of hope, opportunity, and financial freedom to those incarcerated at Davidson Correctional Center.

On April 22 from 2:00 to 3:30 PM, Brian Hamilton, founder of the Inmates to Entrepreneurs (I2E) program, will lead a special 90-minute Correctional Facility Boot Camp at Davidson Correctional Center (1400 Thomason Street, Lexington). This session is part of his decades-long mission to help justice-involved individuals find new paths through small business ownership.

Newly released data doubles down on what the Prison Policy Initiative has long reported: formerly incarcerated people face enormous barriers to stable employment. While the current labor market may appear strong, it still fails to offer economic mobility or long-term security for this vulnerable population—an injustice with ripple effects across society.

Hamilton, who has been featured on Good Morning America, CNBC, and Fox Business, is a pioneer in using entrepreneurship as a tool to combat recidivism. His free program teaches participants how to launch their own service-based businesses—covering everything from customer acquisition to basic bookkeeping.

Founded over 30 years ago, Inmates to Entrepreneurs provides practical tools and mentorship for people preparing for life after incarceration. It has grown into a nationally respected model for reentry support and inspired the ABC television series "Free Enterprise", in which Hamilton stars.

With Governor Josh Stein officially proclaiming April as Second Chance Month in North Carolina, this local event underscores the growing statewide and national efforts to support individuals as they rebuild their lives.

Members of the press interested in attending the event must complete paperwork in advance. For more information or to request access, please call or text (551) 206-2353.