The Veteran Ventures Program (VVP), a free, grant-funded online entrepreneurship training and mentorship program offered through Centenary University, is currently taking applications for the spring 2026 Cohort which starts on Mar 24, 2026.
This unique training program is specifically tailored to address the unique challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life by providing the tools and support needed to launch a successful business. The program is open to Coast Guard active-duty, reservists, veterans, retirees, family members and civilian employees.
What to Expect from the Program
The VVP Business Planning Course provides a comprehensive curriculum to guide participants from business ideas to execution. Participants benefit from:
- Nine weeks of training: Interactive online sessions covering everything from conducting a feasibility study to developing a complete business plan.
- 10 months of mentorship: Receive dedicated business review and coaching from seasoned entrepreneurs and industry professionals.
- Hands-on workshops: Engage in practical workshops and a speaker series led by credentialed consultants.
- Pitch competition: An opportunity to present your business plan to classmates and mentors, with awards provided to the top presenters
New! For Early-Stage Ideas
For those who haven't fully formed a business concept, the new Innovation Seminar offers three online sessions to help you choose and refine a strong business idea and draft a one-page business plan. Graduates of the seminar are eligible to attend the full VVP course in a future cohort.
Success Stories from VVP Graduates
The fall cohort of the VVP ended on Dec. 2, 2025. Eighteen Coast Guard affiliated participants graduated from the VVP Business Planning Course and Innovation Seminar, accounting for over 90% of the graduating class. This strong representation from the Coast Guard also translated to success in the program’s final Pitch Competition, where Coast Guard participants secured six out of seven available awards. Feedback from recent graduates has been overwhelmingly positive.
Nicole Viverito, a Coast Guard spouse and 1st place Pitch Competition winner, said the program gave her the tools to launch her business. “They gave actionable assignments each week that turned my business idea into a reality…With assistance from VVP consultants, I created a complete business plan, presented the plan, and became one of the winners of the pitch competition. I feel more prepared and confident that my business will be a success because of the Veteran Ventures Program!”
LCDR Jeffrey Bohrs, a fellow 1st place winner, valued the comprehensive curriculum. "I really valued thinking about business in a comprehensive way. For now, my business is a hobby, but I plan to pursue it full time when I retire from the Coast Guard. I now have a network of mentors and fellow business owners to reach out to with a wide range of expertise in the future.”
LT Jaclyn Olszewski, a 2nd place winner, also praised the mentorship and networking opportunities provided through the program. “Being paired with a mentor that has been successful in business and entrepreneurship was a game changer. The feedback he provided during our one-on-one meetings each week was extremely helpful and held me accountable…Not only did I end up tying for 2nd Place in the Pitch Competition, but I ended up being hired by a classmate. She purchased my products and they are now on display and sold in her own small business all the way in Virginia.”
Cora B. Good, a CG civilian employee and U.S. Air Force veteran, saw immediate positive results from participating in the VVP. “I've already made significant strides in opening my business” she says. “Prior to the class, I was just strolling along. Now I have a grand opening date of June 20, 2026! It truly was an incredible and valuable experience.”
Apply Now — Don't Wait!
Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, and applicant interviews will be held in early March 2026 to select the final participants.
To apply, complete the registration form through the link at the top of the VVP site. You will then be contacted with additional application and interview requirements.
For information on other civilian professional development opportunities, visit FORCECOM Civilian Career Management (CCM).
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