Military members wanted: STRIVE applications open
STRIVE is a remarkable no-cost entrepreneurship training program tailored specifically for veterans, active-duty service members, reservists and military spouses who are ready to turn their business ideas into reality.
And East Tennessee State University is accepting applications for its 2025 STRIVE cohort.
The eight-week program begins Sept. 18 and happens as a partnership between ETSU’s College of Business and Technology, the Tennessee Small Business Development Center and Syracuse University’s Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF), a national leader in veteran entrepreneurship.
The deadline to apply is Aug. 1.
Through STRIVE, participants gain essential tools for launching and growing a business — and access to an enduring support network that extends well beyond the classroom.
“This initiative continues to empower veterans, active-duty service members and military spouses by giving them the tools, mentorship and network needed to turn their business ideas into thriving ventures,” said Mark Bays, director of the center at ETSU. “We’re looking forward to another dynamic group of entrepreneurs who are ready to take the next step in their mission — from service to startup.”
ETSU is one of only two institutions nationwide selected by Syracuse to host the STRIVE program, a distinction that underscores ETSU’s deep and growing investment in military-affiliated students. From achieving Gold status in the Military Friendly® rankings to reducing tuition rates for active-duty students, ETSU continues to expand access and opportunity for those who serve.
Participants accepted into STRIVE will attend evening classes and complete online coursework while receiving individualized guidance from local and national business experts.
The program includes:
- No cost to participants
- Skills development in business planning, marketing, financing and more
- Post-program support from the TSBDC and IVMF network
- Potential funding opportunities through national and regional partner
Classes take place at the James H. Quillen VA Campus in Johnson City. Interested applicants can learn more and apply at etsu.edu/strive.
East Tennessee State University was founded in 1911 with a singular mission: to improve the quality of life for people in the region and beyond. Through its world-class health sciences programs and interprofessional approach to health care education, ETSU is a highly respected leader in rural health research and practices. The university also boasts nationally ranked programs in the arts, technology, computing, and media studies. ETSU serves approximately 14,000 students each year and is ranked among the top 10 percent of colleges in the nation for students graduating with the least amount of debt.
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