Solano Prison Inmates Given 'Shark Tank' Style Business Opportunity

VACAVILLE, CA- Inmates at California State Prison-Solano in Vacaville will pitch their business plan ideas to successful Silicon Valley venture capitalists and entrepreneurs next week, prison officials said Wednesday.

The inmate who makes the best pitch during the "Shark Tank" style competition will win funding for a start-up business when he is released on parole. The inmates have been participating in Defy Ventures' rigorous program, which teaches job skills and development of business plans.

The New York City-based company harnesses the natural talents of formerly incarcerated individuals toward legal and profitable business ventures. The Silicon Valley venture capitalists and entrepreneurs will provide resume critique and business coaching to the inmates, who are considered entrepreneurs in training.

The event begins at noon on April 28 and the final competition begins at 2:45 p.m. The prison is located at 2100 Peabody Road in Vacaville.

By Bay City News, Image via Shutterstock