VEP Frequently Asked Questions

No. The VEP is designed to take any veteran and military family member, regardless of prior educational experience, through the steps and stages of starting a new business.

Stage I: does not have any limits, as many as possible to fit in the breakout rooms at GRB during the EXPO

Stage II: We have 40 seats available in the VEP. Participants must submit an application before the deadline for consideration by the VEP Admissions Committee.

Stage III: Events do not have any limits; competition does not have any limits; however, only top finalists will be invited to pitch in front of a panel of Judges.

For Stage I: Yes! Open to all veterans and military family members.

For Stage II: We have 40 seats available in the VEP. Participants must submit an application before the deadline for consideration by the VEP Admissions Committee.

For Stage III: Events are open to family members. Competition is open to only business founders/co-founders and/or executive team members recommended.

A Registration for Stage 1 Opens: September 1, 2023

Applications for Stage 2 Opens September 13, 2023 (or earlier, depending on interest and demand)

Business Pitch Applications for Stage 3 Pitch Competition: Opens in September 23, 2023

The VEP Stage I requires attending the Veteran Business Expo on September 22 & 23rd and participating in up to 4 training sessions. The VEP Stage II requires a Saturday commitment to complete the five (5) week program. The VEP Stage III (Pitch) requires the submission of a Business Idea. Participants are encouraged to participate in all VEP stages.

There is no cost to participate in the HCC Veterans Entrepreneurship Program.