Graduation day at Pike County Jail marks a new chapter for Women in Entrepreneurship program

A sense of celebration filled the air at the Pike County Jail as a group of women walked across a classroom space not usually known for applause. But on this day, they were recognized — not as inmates, but as aspiring business owners. The event marked the culmination of “New Start Up,” a five-session entrepreneurship program led by Troy University’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC), in partnership with the Pike County Sheriff’s Office and the Sorrell College of Business. Each participant received a certificate of completion signed by Dean Judson Edwards and SBDC Director Juliana Bolivar, symbolizing the work they put into learning business fundamentals, building financial awareness, and — perhaps most importantly — believing in possibility again. “We started this program with a simple idea: that with the right tools and support, a person can start over,” Bolivar said. “This space became more than a classroom. It became a place for dreams, second chances, and the kind of learning that sticks because it’s tied to real hope.” The series covered topics ranging from business modeling and budgeting to professionalism, branding, and communication. Participants learned how to create business plans using what they already had, explored AI tools to enhance their skills, and discussed practical strategies for repairing credit and
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