The Financial Award Will Support Reentry Entrepreneurship and Economic Mobility
CHARLOTTE, N.C., Dec. 16, 2024 – City Startup Labs (CSL) has received a $10,000 grant from the U.S. Bank Foundation to support its ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP). REEP is a career development program that addresses challenges presented for justice-impacted individuals. The grant will be used to enhance the program’s mission to redefine workforce development for formerly incarcerated individuals, providing them with the tools and resources necessary to start new ventures and bring their ideas and businesses to market.
“Creating equitable opportunities for members of our community requires resources, and we appreciate the support from the U.S. Bank Foundation, which helps us continue to build and expand the innovative programs we’re proud to offer,” said Henry Rock, founder and executive director of CSL.
Unlike conventional reentry programs that focus primarily on meeting the immediate employment needs of formerly incarcerated individuals, REEP aims to address the deeper systemic challenges by equipping program participants with the skills needed for entrepreneurship and business creation. Training covers cognitive, interpersonal, personal leadership, and digital skill development. By fostering entrepreneurial mindsets and technical capabilities, REEP strives to reduce recidivism, promote wealth-building and ultimately contribute to stronger communities.
“Supporting the development of small businesses and a dynamic workforce is an investment in today and our future. We’re proud to work with organizations like City Startup Labs to help people succeed in their careers as well as build thriving communities,” said Yuka Hashimoto, community affairs manager at U.S. Bank.
U.S. Bank is committed to powering human potential and creating lasting change in communities. The bank does this through the Community Possible platform, including philanthropy, community investments and team member volunteerism.
For more information on City Startup Labs and REEP visit www.citystartuplabs.com.
About City Startup Labs
City Startup Labs is transforming entrepreneurship and workforce development for formerly incarcerated individuals by harnessing their potential to build businesses and thrive in modern careers. Through innovative skills training, mentorship, and community engagement, CSL fosters social and economic mobility. Its two key programs are the Restorative Pathways reentry initiative and the ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP) startup incubator.
