This volume presents a study undertaken in Connecticut to identify short-term and long-term strategies for changing prison industries into self-supporting labor systems while simultaneously promoting the rehabilitation of prison inmates. Individual tasks performed as part of the study include a job market survey, an inmate manpower survey, and a product/service sales analysis. Product and labor supply and demand, correctional policies, and legal constraints are discussed. A new concept in prison industries, the Free Venture Model, is proposed, which would (1) create a realistic work environment for inmates; (2) provide partial reimbursement to the state for costs of custody; (3) allow for restitution payments to victims; (4) gradually prepare inmates for release into the community; (5) give prison industry financial incentives for successful reintegration of offenders into the community; and (6) create self-supporting or even profit-making business operations. The relationship between the Free Venture program and other components of the correctional institution is described, and an implementation strategy is proposed. Opportunities for short-term changes, such as establishing a number of Free Venture Industry shops and developing a marketing program, are discussed. Recommendations are then offered for long-term changes, involving such items as program growth decisions and legislative changes. (Author/ELG)