Program Calendar

Program Calendar

Application Process: 

• Applications Open: November 11, 2026
• Application Deadline: April 30, 2027
• Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on April 30, 2027, to be considered.

Final Notification of Admission: 

May 15, 2027

• Applicants will be notified of acceptance or non-selection on a rolling basis, with all final decisions communicated by May 15, 2027.
• Due to limited availability, accepted applicants must submit a signed commitment letter within one week of receiving their acceptance notification.

VEP Phase I: Online Learning and Concept Development

May 24 – June 30, 2027

• Online coursework, business concept development, and preparation for Boot Camp.
• Participants must successfully complete Phase I to advance to Phase II.

VEP Phase II: Boot Camp

July 17–24, 2027

• Eight-day residency Boot Camp in Chattanooga, TN.
• Participants will depart on Sunday, July 25, 2027.

VEP Phase III: Advising and Venture Development

August–December 2027

• Individualized business advising, venture development support, and peer-to-peer networking. Advising and networking opportunities continue beyond the formal program period.