The American Legion has announced a two-day entrepreneurial course, "For Her Entrepreneurship -- Resources, Opportunities, Experiences & Support (For HEROES)," to take place in conjunction with its annual national convention in Houston on Aug. 26-27. The free course is designed specifically for female military veterans and military spouses.
The two-day intensive entrepreneurship course was created by the Legion in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) at Syracuse University. After completing this course, participants will have the tools and knowledge they need to identify a business opportunity, draft a business plan and launch their enterprise.
"SBA is truly committed to help veteran women entrepreneurs succeed," SBA associate administrator Rhett Jeppson said. "We know that more than 250,000 military service members transition out of active duty each year and that women are outpacing men with respect to starting new businesses. We provide these aspiring entrepreneurs support to launch their business, and that's why we're partnering with the Legion to provide this course."
The training will be offered during the American Legion's 95th annual national convention in Houston. The curriculum includes an introduction to entrepreneurship and skills training, plus detailed information on resources and support programs designed specifically to aid veterans working with the federal government. Business conceptualization, business plan formulation, financial planning, startup funding, marketing and related topics will be explored as well.
"Entrepreneurship is the answer for many veterans who find the job market a particularly tough one these days," said Joe Sharpe, director of the Legion's National Economic Division. "That is one reason why, according to the SBA, veterans are more likely as non-veterans to start their own small businesses. However, the entrepreneurial interests of women veterans have been neglected. That is why this groundbreaking session will be so valuable."
Participants who complete this course will also be provided access to an eight-week online Foundations of Entrepreneurship course offered by IVMF. Completion of the eight-week online course will require approximately 10 hours of study each week and walk participants through the fundamentals of developing a business plan.
Female veterans interested in enrolling in the free entrepreneurship training program can register online or contact Jasmine Davis at (202) 263-5771 or jdavis@legion.org.
Want to Know More About the Military?
Be sure to get the latest news about the U.S. military, as well as critical info about how to join and all the benefits of service. Subscribe to Military.com and receive customized updates delivered straight to your inbox.
