The path to redemption can be taken by anyone. And for many, it can be instrumental in their successful reentry into the community. For Abdul-Malik Walker the 10 years he spent in prison were not wasted. He used the time to study and get certified with a number of HVAC...
From Bars to Business: It’s Not Charity
There aren't many things in this life that we can do on our own. Often, we are only as good as the support systems with which we surround ourselves. A stable job (with coworkers, responsibilities, and a paycheck) is one of those support systems. But getting, and keeping, a job...
From Bars to Business: There, but for the grace of God, go I
Have you ever struggled to get a job? Constantly checked your email for a response to your application? Felt that nervous anticipation before walking in the door to your first interview? We've all been there. But what if you had something else looming over you that would make it even...
From Bars to Business–The Podcast
The Covation Center is excited to present the podcast series From Bars to Business, a compelling exploration of how individuals with criminal records are overcoming barriers to re-enter society and rebuild their lives. A criminal record doesn’t have to be a life sentence, yet many people face significant challenges when...
Small Business Grant and Loan application
The SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan has a unique aspect – a “rapid advance” of $10,000 that is not required to be repaid – AKA, a grant. The process to apply for this grant is simple, and has few requirements for application, however the funds are limited, so early application...
KIVA loans — a “zero percent” alternative
Our Executive Director talks with Aden Wertz about the Kiva Loan program. Kiva loans are “crowd sourced” loans where people from across your community, and around the world, will loan money to enable a business to expand, grow, or operate. There are a number of changes in response to the...
Covid 19 and PA Unemployment Compensation
Welcome to the Covation Business Talks Podcast. This is the first episode, and we jump right in to the discussion about Pennsylvania’s changes to the Unemployment Compensation process due to the response to COVID 19. Now this process is subject to change as the challenges ahead change, but we recorded...