#United States #Veterans #Business Funding #Vetrepreneur Project #Fond du Lac

Vetrepreneur Project: Empowering Veterans in Business

The Vetrepreneur Project is an initiative designed to empower veterans by providing them with the tools and resources needed to succeed in the entrepreneurial world. This program is the result of a synergistic collaboration between the Venture Project of Oshkosh, Salute the Troops, and the Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce (WVCC).

Scheduled to take place from May 2-4, 2025, at the picturesque Chula Vista Resort in Wisconsin Dells, this all-expenses-paid weekend is tailored for Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, and Minnesota veterans interested in launching or expanding their businesses. Participants will engage in a three-day intensive learning experience that includes expert-led workshops and opportunities for networking, concluding with a live pitch competition for seed funding of up to $5,000.

Since its inception, the Vetrepreneur Project has been instrumental in fostering entrepreneurial growth within the veteran community. With a track record of launching 20 businesses and distributing $29,000 in funding, the program has positively impacted several communities. The upcoming retreat promises to condense powerful business accelerator elements into a manageable three-day agenda. Participants will learn vital skills such as lean startup principles, customer validation, and effective pitch development.

The selection process is open to veterans who own at least 50% of their business, whether they are in the ideation phase or already operational. Those with existing revenue are prioritized, yet all motivated veterans are encouraged to apply. The event will be limited to 30 participants, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship throughout the weekend.

The first day of the retreat, Friday, serves as an invaluable networking opportunity, allowing veterans to connect and share their aspirations. Saturday is packed with intensive workshops aimed at equipping participants with essential business knowledge, culminating in Sunday’s pitch finale where veterans can present their business ideas to a panel of judges.

A representative from Salute the Troops remarked, “Veterans embody pride and purpose. This program delivers tools, training, and funding—no catch.” The insights and experiences shared by past participants, such as business owner Jess Marshall, emphasize the impact of this retreat on gaining clarity and momentum in their ventures.

The Vetrepreneur Project is supported by esteemed organizations including Wisconsin Business Development, Carbliss, and National Exchange Bank and Trust, all committed to paving a sustainable entrepreneurial path for veterans.

In summary, the Vetrepreneur Project stands as a beacon of hope for veterans seeking to navigate the challenges of starting or growing a business. Interested veterans can apply via the official website at salutethetroopswi.org/vetrepreneur-project. This initiative not only aims to instill practical knowledge among participants but also celebrates the invaluable contributions of veterans to our society.

Contact Information
Salute the Troops
Phone: 920.204.6856
Email: info@salutethetroopswi.org
Address: 27 3rd St Suite A, Fond du Lac, WI 54935

Join the movement and take the leap into entrepreneurship this Spring!