DAV Patriot Boot Camp helps Veteran entrepreneurs build businesses and community – VA News (.gov)

DAV Patriot Boot Camp helps Veteran entrepreneurs build businesses and community  VA News (.gov)

DAV Patriot Boot Camp helps Veterans and military spouses build businesses through training, mentorship and lasting connections to a supportive community. Editor’s note: The sharing of any non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products and services on the part of VA. Veterans should verify the information with the organization offering. Veterans and military spouses looking to grow their businesses and build lasting connections can apply for the next DAV Patriot Boot Camp, Feb. 17-19 at DAV headquarters near Cincinnati. Applications close Jan. 18 or when all seats are filled, whichever comes first. The three-day entrepreneurship program offers training, mentoring and networking. Selected participants will also have the chance to compete in DAV Patriots Pitch, a “Shark Tank”-style pitch contest where Veterans and military spouses present their business ideas to a panel of Veteran investors, industry experts and successful entrepreneurs.

The contest offers up to $10,000 in non-dilutive funding prizes to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses. For entrepreneur Katherine Pratt, the program’s value extended beyond business training. Connections she made through DAV Patriot Boot Camp helped her create a nonprofit that connects Veterans with financial literacy and wellness resources. One of her fellow alumni now sits on the nonprofit’s board. A cohort mentor who is a licensed therapist serves as its mental health liaison. Pratt also stays in regular