About the VEP
At the heart of VEP is an intensive, eight-day immersion experience at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, focused on the essential elements of starting and growing a successful business. The Boot Camp is preceded by a five-week online learning phase and followed by five months of individualized business advising and peer-to-peer networking.
This three-phase approach combines practical entrepreneurship education, hands-on learning, and ongoing support to help veterans turn their business ideas into reality and grow their ventures.
VEP Phase I: Concept Development and Online Learning
May 24 - June 30, 2027
During this five-week online phase, participants complete a structured curriculum developed specifically for VEP, including coursework, discussions, and assessments facilitated by entrepreneurship faculty from the Gary W. Rollins College of Business.
Participants will refine their business concepts, address challenges and opportunities within existing businesses, and prepare for the eight-day Boot Camp in Chattanooga.
Participants also receive 12 months of complimentary access to LivePlan, an online business planning tool that provides step-by-step guidance for developing a comprehensive business plan.
VEP Phase II: Boot Camp
July 17-24, 2027
Like a military boot camp, this eight-day immersive experience in Chattanooga is intensive, challenging, and designed to prepare participants for success. Through hands-on workshops, interactive sessions, and real-world learning experiences, participants gain practical knowledge of business ownership while engaging with accomplished faculty, successful entrepreneurs, business experts, and fellow veterans.
Boot Camp Week brings together faculty from nationally recognized entrepreneurship programs and industry professionals to provide practical insights into starting, managing, and growing a business.
VEP Phase III: Advisement and Venture Development
August - December 2027
Following Boot Camp, participants receive ongoing business advising from experienced entrepreneurs and subject matter experts, along with opportunities for peer-to-peer networking.
During this five-month phase, participants receive individualized guidance, practical feedback, and continued support as they work to launch or grow their businesses. Advising and networking opportunities remain available to VEP graduates beyond the formal program period.
Through VEP's partnership with Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union, eligible graduates also have access to the Idea Leap Loan Program.
Eligibility
VEP serves veterans who meet the following requirements:
- Have separated from active duty service (or are in the process of separating) with an honorable discharge.
- Have developed a business concept or currently own a business, with an emphasis on early-stage ventures.
- Preference will be given to applicants who have a VA-recognized service-connected disability or have demonstrated exemplary military service through distinguished personal military decorations.
Cost
VEP is offered at no cost to selected veterans. All instruction, program materials, eligible travel expenses, lodging, and meals during Boot Camp Week are provided at no cost to participants.
The program is made possible through the generous support of sponsors and private donors, including our presenting sponsor, Walden Security.
Travel and Lodging
VEP will be held on the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga campus, with program sessions taking place in Fletcher Hall, home of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business.
Hotel accommodations in downtown Chattanooga will be arranged for all selected participants. VEP also covers eligible airfare or mileage reimbursement for travel to and from Chattanooga.
Transportation will be provided to and from the airport, as well as all scheduled program activities. Hotel parking will be available for participants who drive.
A personal vehicle is not necessary during the program.