Learn more about Stage 1 of the Veterans Entrepreneurship Program.
Veterans Entrepreneurship Program
The Veterans Entrepreneurship Program (VEP) is designed to help veterans start and grow a small business. The program offers cutting-edge, experiential digital technology training from technology experts, practical Small Business Success Series by HCC© training, access to a local launchpad, access to HCC’s Entrepreneurial Programs (Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses, Minority Business Development Agency, HCC Business Plan Competition, etc.), and a unique Pitch Competition for Veterans and Military family members interested in learning about entrepreneurship and small business ownership.
- Stage 1: Practical Digital Skills via Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program
- Stage 2: Practical Business Skills via Startup Training Resources to Inspire Veteran Entrepreneurship (STRIVE)
- Stage 3: Local Launch Pad via Houston Regional Veterans Chamber of Commerce
Empowering our nation's heroes to succeed in the new business world.A collaboration of HCC, Houston Regional Veterans Chamber of Commerce and Regional & National partners.
Veterans Entrepreneurship Program
Learn more about Stage 2 of the Veterans Entrepreneurship Program.
Stage 3 of the Veterans Entrepreneurship Program.
View the Veterans Entrepreneurship Program Timeline & Calendar.
View Frequently Asked Questions about the Veterans Entrepreneurship Program.
Who can attend
- Veterans who have separated or are in the process of separating from the military.
- Family members of veterans and military dependents.
- The Practical Business Skills program has an application that requires the applicant to have developed a business concept or have an existing business less than three years old.
VEP is free to veterans and military members and family, over the age of 18. The costs of the VEP are underwritten by sponsors and donors.
Center for Entrepreneurship - Southwest Contact
Ravi P Brahmbhatt
Dir, Entre Init Community Rel
VEP Leadership
VEP Advisory Members (Honorary)
Coaches, Public Communications:
- Dr. Maya Durnovo, Houston City College (HCC)
- Mr. Dave Weaver, Houston Regional Veterans Chamber of Commerce
- Dr. Robert III Dembo, City of Houston, Veterans & Military Affairs (MOVMA)
- Mr. David Regenbaum, HCC Foundation & EiR
Cheerleaders, Day-to-Day Operations, Participant Liaison, Participant Communications
- Dr. Ravi Brahmbhatt, HCC Student Innovation & Entrepreneurship
- Mr. John Cacolice, Houston Regional Veteran Chamber of Commerce
- Dr. Latrice Rideout, HCC Community Learning
- Mr. Rick Miller, Impact a Hero
Community Liaison, Community Promotion, Outreach
- Mr. Mark Winchester, SBA
- Ms. Jada Harris, SCORE Houston
- Dr. Lalitha Raman, SCORE Houston
- Ms. Christina Resendez, Impact a Hero
