Former prisoner launches AI platform to help people rebuild after release

Richard Bronson, who served time in federal prison for securities-law offences, has launched Commissary Club, a social platform aimed at helping people leaving prison find work, housing and community. His own difficulty securing a job after release shaped the idea, which addresses a group he says receives little practical support.

The two-person startup uses AI to guide users through employment and housing searches, and also offers social connections, referrals and dating features. The first 10 job applications are free; users are then charged $149 for 10 more, or $14.99 each. Bronson argues that a for-profit model can still serve an overlooked community, though the cost may be difficult for some users.