This study explored the level of awareness in designing business proposals among Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Passi District Jail, Passi City, Iloilo, Philippines. Using a descriptive-survey design, the study examined how awareness varied across socio-demographic characteristics, including age, civil status, educational attainment, and length of incarceration. Findings indicated that PDLs generally possess a moderate understanding of business proposal development, with minimal variation across demographic groups, suggesting that factors such as age, gender, education, and incarceration period do not significantly influence awareness. Despite basic entrepreneurial knowledge, gaps were identified in areas requiring practical skills, highlighting the need for structured and targeted interventions. In response, the study proposed the “Unlocking Potential: A Business Proposal Project for PDLs”, which incorporates workshops, mentorship, networking, and post-release support to strengthen entrepreneurial competencies. The study emphasizes the importance of economic empowerment and skill development in correctional settings to facilitate rehabilitation, reintegration, and the transformation of PDLs into productive, self-reliant members of society.

Keywords: Persons Deprived of Liberty, business proposal design, workshop, mentorship, entrepreneurship