VEP at UTC Specifics:
VEP Phase I: Concept Development and Self Study
May 28-July 2, 2013
During this initial five week period, selected delegates will participate in a self-study curriculum developed by UTC College of Business. This will include reading materials and an online assessment module moderated by our entrepreneurship faculty. This phase will enable delegates to work on the further development of their business concepts and prepare for the on-campus bootcamp experience in July 2013. Those with existing businesses will work on understanding and shaping relevant business issues.
VEP Phase II: VEP Bootcamp
July 20-27, 2013
Like a military bootcamp, this eight-day residency at the UTC Campus in Chattanooga,
TN is intense, rigorous and demanding. It is an opportunity for hands-on learning and
interaction with faculty, guest entrepreneurs, business experts and peer delegates.
The Bootcamp exposes VEP participants to the “nuts and bolts” of business ownership
through experiential workshops and lessons from world-class entrepreneurship faculty
representing nationally ranked programs around the country.
VEP Phase III: Mentoring and Venture Development
August 2013-May 2014
Delegates are provided with 10 months of
ongoing mentorship from entrepreneurship
experts at the UTC College of Business and online
peer-to-peer networking. This phase of
the VEP will enable delegates to get specific feedback
regarding their ventures, provides
access to professionals who can answer specific technical
questions and offers extended hands-on support
Cost
The VEP is free to eligible veterans who are selected for the program.
Travel expenses, lodging and meals for the Phase II Bootcamp are provided at no
cost to
the delegate. The costs of the VEP are underwritten by sponsors and
private donors, with
operations and program development provided by the
UTC College of Business.
Eligibility
VEP targets candidates who meet the following three requirements:
(1) Have separated from active duty service (or are currently in the administrative
process of separating)
+
(2a) Are identified as disabled by the Veteran’s Administration or Department of
Defense authority based on a “service-connected” disability
or
(2b) Are “service distinguished” for exemplary military conduct
+
(3) Demonstrate a strong interest in entrepreneurship and commitment to small
business ownership
How to Apply
The VEP at UTC has a rigorous and selective application process that reflects the unique
opportunity and valuable resources being offered to eligible veterans as part of this
entrepreneurial education initiative. Successful candidates demonstrate a strong interest
in entrepreneurship and venture creation, the motivation to own and operate a business,
and a high likelihood of active participation and completion of the entire VEP program.
(link to application)
