I've recently become aware of an absolutely fabulous program that helps military veterans and military family members learn the skills to build a successful business. Located at Syracuse University, the Institute for Veterans and Military Families provides many services to post-service military.
The IVMF is the first national center in higher education focused on the social, economic, education and policy issues impacting veterans and their families post-service.There are four IVMF programs that I would like to highlight here: Boots to Business, EBV, EBVF, and V-WISE.
Operation Boots to Business
For transitioning service members, the Boots to Business program offers an introduction to the principles of entrepreneurship. The initial information come via a short video in the Transition Assistance Program (TAP). Interested service members can choose to participate in the second phase, which includes a 90 minute session and a textbook. After completion of this part, there is the opportunity to participate in an eight-week course that more fully develops the principles of entrepreneurship. These resources are free to the user.
Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans (EBV) and
Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans Families (EBV-F)
These two programs are almost identical, except for the groups served. Each class consists of an intensive monthly-long online course, followed by a jam-packed, eight day resident course, held at various university locations around the country. During the course, the participants learn the basics of all facets of business ownership, from concept development to financing to legal to marketing. After the in-person course, EBV and EBV-F offer a wide range of follow-up support to participants as they start their businesses. Once again, the program is free to attendees.
The results of this program have been truly amazing. 70% of graduates have started a business within four months of leaving the in-person course, and 90% of those businesses have remained in operation.
I've just finished an absolute amazing EBV-F residency at Syracuse University, and I wholeheartedly recommend this program to veterans or family members who have any interest in entrepreneurship. The EBV and EBV-F staff is truly dedicated to serving military families by helping them on the path to entrepreneurship.
If you any interest in starting your own business, please look into this spectacular program. I guarantee that you will find outstanding value from the time you invest in participating.
