ENTREPRENEURSHIP BOOTCAMP FOR VETERANS
The Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans (EBV) program offers cutting edge, experiential training in entrepreneurship and small business management to post-9/11 veterans.
Since 2010, the UConn School of Business has proudly participated in this remarkable program, dedicated to giving back to those who have sacrificed for our country. The EBV program showcases the transformative power of entrepreneurship, driving job creation and economic growth while empowering veterans to build thriving businesses in their communities.
The EBV is designed to give focused, practical training in the tools and skills of new venture creation and growth and the establishment of a support structure for graduates of the program.
EBV also serves a critical function in helping our disabled veterans work through their physical limitations, psychological challenges, and social obstacles. EBV brings together a dedicated UConn community of faculty, staff, students, alumni, and others to rally around this group of exceptional individuals.
The program has graduated 282 veterans and military spouses. Our mission in the next 10 years is to help transition those retiring from long-term military posts into civilian careers that may sustain them and their families. UConn remains committed to making the university a national leader for veteran entrepreneurship.
PROGRAM FORMAT
PHASE I
A 30-day online curriculum exposing participants to business fundamentals and research.
PHASE II
A nine-day residency including workshops and courses taught by UConn faculty along with guest lectures from successful entrepreneurs and business executives.
*Next residency: August 2025
PHASE III
The EBV National Program is managed by Syracuse University’s D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF). The IVMF Post Program Support Services provides technical assistance upon completion of the residency, including a network of mentors, resources, and national partners.
"As an entrepreneur, I wasn't afraid to jump into the woods, because I knew where I wanted to go and what I wanted to accomplish. But, I wasn't quite sure how to navigate all of the paths that I came across. EBV gave me the compass; and now I am on the direct path to success.''
William J. Stacey
Founder, Freedom Corp
EBV 2023 Cohort Member
“The EBV program really was life changing. I came into it knowing just enough about starting a business to be dangerous. The EBV program helped me to connect the pieces of what I’d learned. The average person who has a great business idea doesn’t think about the cash-flow analysis and attracting the right stream of customers through a targeted marketing plan. I felt like I earned a mini MBA.”
Jason Otrin
Founder, On Course Drones
EBV 2017 Cohort Member
MAKE A GIFT TO EBV
The EBV program is offered entirely free to participants through the generous support of EBV universities, and the private giving of individuals and corporations. Expenses covered by the program include: transportation, lodging, food, and textbooks.
In addition, the program does not require use of GI Bill or VOC-Rehab benefits.
THE EBV NATIONAL PROGRAM
The EBV opens the door to economic opportunity for veterans by developing their competencies in the many steps and activities associated with creating and sustaining an entrepreneurial venture. Founded at Syracuse University in 2007, the program has since expanded to additional universities across the United States, including: Texas A&M, UCLA, the University of Connecticut, Louisiana State University, Saint Joseph’s University, Wright State University, and the University of Missouri – with Syracuse University serving as national host of the consortium of schools.
EBV QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER
We highlight upcoming events, our past participants, and provide resources for veteran businesses in a quarterly email.
BECOME A MENTOR
Become a mentor for the EBV program and help veteran entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of starting and growing their businesses. Your experience and guidance can make a lasting impact, offering support to those who’ve served and are now building their next chapter.
ALUMNI WORKSHOP SERIES
Looking to expand your network and deepen your connections? EBV program alumni can now join us for our quarterly workshop series: "Beyond the Uniform." This series brings alumni together to exchange insights, learn from expert presenters, and build meaningful relationships with fellow veterans.
Don’t miss this opportunity to grow both personally and professionally! Join our email list today to receive workshop updates.
Michael J. Zacchea
EBV UConn Founder & Director
1968 - 2022
We are deeply grateful for Michael's visionary leadership, passion, and unwavering commitment to the EBV program. His dedication not only shaped the program but also built a lasting legacy of camaraderie and support for veteran entrepreneurs. This life-changing program will live on in his honor, empowering future generations of veterans.
MEET THE UCONN EBV TEAM
Nicholas Martinelli
Program Manager
nicholas.martinelli@uconn.edu
Mehgan Williams
Program Coordinator
mehgan.williams@uconn.edu