Get in Touch

Have a question about the program, a partnership idea, or something else? We're happy to hear from you. Use the form below or reach out directly by email.

General Inquiry Apply to the Program Partner / Refer Donate / Support

Send Us a Message

Use this form for general questions, partnership inquiries, media requests, or anything else. If you're looking to apply to the program, please use the interest form instead.

We aim to respond to all messages within 2–3 business days.

Not Sure Where to Start?

Here's a quick guide to help you find the right path.

I want to apply for the program

If you or someone you know faces employment barriers and is interested in entrepreneurship, start with the interest form.

See If You Qualify →

I want to refer someone or partner

If you work with adults who may benefit from this program, use the contact form and select "Partnership or referral opportunity."

Contact Us →

I want to donate or support

Donors and supporters are essential to keeping this program free. Use the contact form to ask about giving options.

Get in Touch →

What Option C Foundation Does

We're a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that helps adults facing serious employment barriers launch real, legally formed small businesses — completely free of charge.

Who We Help

Option C serves adults who face structural barriers to traditional employment — people with felony convictions who are filtered out by background checks, people managing disabilities that make nine-to-five work difficult or impossible, long-term unemployed adults who have been out of the workforce for extended periods, and people who have tried the traditional path and found it repeatedly closed to them.

For these individuals, self-employment isn't just an alternative — it's often the most realistic path to economic independence. Option C exists to make that path real and structured, not just theoretical.

What the Program Covers

Qualified participants receive a complete business launch at no cost: LLC or sole proprietor formation, a professionally built website, brand identity (logo, business cards), Google Business Profile setup and SEO configuration, and one-on-one mentorship with an experienced business owner from start to first client.

The program is built around our Business Builder Model — a structured framework that moves participants from business concept to operational reality in a defined sequence. Nothing is left open-ended. Every participant has clear milestones and a real person accountable to their progress.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a response?

We aim to respond to all messages within 2–3 business days. For program inquiries submitted through the interest form, our team reviews applications on a rolling basis and will reach out if your situation looks like a strong fit.

Is the program really free?

Yes. Option C Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit funded by individual donors and grants. Qualified participants pay nothing for the full program — not for the LLC formation, the website, the branding, the mentorship, or any other part of the launch. Our EIN is 41-3208039 if you'd like to verify our nonprofit status.

Where does Option C operate?

Our team is based in Charlotte, NC, but the program is remote-first and we serve participants nationwide. Because we build websites, set up Google Business Profiles, and deliver mentorship digitally, there is no geographic restriction on participation.

What kinds of partnerships does the foundation accept?

We work with reentry organizations, disability service providers, workforce development agencies, and social service nonprofits that serve the same population we do. Partners can refer clients directly, co-promote the program to their audiences, or explore funding and grant partnerships. Use the contact form and select "Partnership or referral opportunity" to start a conversation.

How do I know if someone I'm working with qualifies?

The best way is to send them to our interest form. It takes about five minutes to complete and asks the questions we need to assess fit. Our team reviews each submission individually — there's no automated rejection. If you're a case manager, counselor, or social worker, you can also reach out through the contact form to discuss referral processes in more detail.

Can I volunteer or offer mentorship?

Yes. We're always looking for experienced business owners who can provide mentorship to our participants — especially people who have built service-based businesses from the ground up. If you have relevant experience and time to commit, reach out through the contact form and select "Volunteer or mentorship interest."