St. Louis County Library Introduces Small Business Launchpad for Formerly Incarcerated Individuals
May 1, 2023–St. Louis County Library is launching a new program for individuals with previous state or federal convictions to learn the basics for starting and running a business. The Small Business Launchpad is a free, 6-month program where formerly incarcerated individuals will develop skills through expert-led presentations and workshops. Applications for the program will be accepted May 1-June 30 at www.slcl.org/small-business-launchpad. The program will take place at the Natural Bridge Branch from August 2023–January 2024.
The Small Business Launchpad will provide concrete skills for individuals with prior state or federal convictions who are interested in starting their own business. At the end of the 6-month program, participants will know how to write a business plan, understand financing and marketing for small businesses, and will create an elevator pitch to present to potential funders at the final pitch event. Participants will also have an opportunity to connect with organizations in the community that provide support to new businesses, and learn about free resources available from the Library.
Applications will be accepted May 1–June 30. A library card is not required to apply for the Small Business Launchpad, although it is encouraged to have access to the Library’s small business databases. SLCL provides free access to databases to help business owners build mailing lists, conduct market research and explore grants.
SLCL has been offering services for the justice involved for several years. Staff have been visiting the St. Louis County Juvenile Detention Center since 2017, offering book discussion programs, STEM activities and DIY craft projects. SLCL’s Reference by Mail service answers informational requests from correctional facilities from all over Missouri. In 2022, librarians answered over 4,400 letters from 18 Missouri correctional facilities. SLCL provides books and virtual programming to those in custody at the St. Louis County Justice Center, as well as library cards and information about library services upon release. Additionally, SLCL partners with several justice involved organizations to host a Tap In Center at two branches where individuals can get free legal assistance, including having their warrants recalled. To date over 600 warrants have been resolved.
This project is sponsored by the Missouri Library Association’s Access & Innovation Fund grant program, which aims to enhance, support, and develop library technologies and innovation that improve patrons’ access to library services. The Missouri Library Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization operating to promote library service, the profession of librarianship, and cooperation among all types of libraries and organizations concerned with library service in the State of Missouri.
Media inquiries about should be directed to Jennifer McBride, SLCL Communications Manager at 314-994-3300 ext 2250 or jmcbride@slcl.org.