Veterans Entrepreneurship Program at UTC

07/24/2026

Thanks to Pathway Lending for sponsoring this networking lunch.

The cohort has been absorbing information in the classroom for the whole week, so this was a time for them to have focused conversations about applying those things to their business. From finance and funding to marketing and strategic planning, our veteran entrepreneurs are getting personalized guidance from experienced professionals.

07/22/2026

From the Gary W. Rollins College of Business to the ballpark, today was all about networking.

A speed round of networking with 18 different advisors led to deeper conversations and ideas for business plans. Much like the cohort, our advisors spread the gamut across industries and expertise. We're grateful for everyone who has contributed their time and wisdom to encourage and advise this great group of entrepreneurs.

And we're not done. Let's keep the momentum going over the next three days of Bootcamp.

07/21/2026

The Veterans Entrepreneurship Program took a trip to the TSBDCChattanooga. Thanks to Lynn Chesnutt and the team at INCubator for giving us a tour and sharing all the resources available to entrepreneurs in the area. We're grateful for partnerships that enable our small business owners to launch, grow and succeed.

07/17/2026

We're celebrating 15 years of the Veterans Entrepreneurship Program at UTC. The 2026 cohort arrives this weekend to begin their intensive eight-day bootcamp, ready to build.

Since its inception, more than 200 veteran entrepreneurs have graduated from our program. Combined, their businesses have generated more than $167 million in revenue and created nearly 550 jobs.

This year's participants come from different branches and backgrounds, with different business ideas. It's a symbol of what VEP has always been about: veterans lifting each other up.

Read more about the program. https://blog.utc.edu/business/2026/07/16/15-years-of-mission-utcs-veterans-entrepreneurship-program-welcomes-its-2026-cohort/

04/09/2026

We're at the Charlotte Veterans Job Fair at the Bojangles Entertainment Complex until 3 p.m. today. Stop by to learn about our free business training for Veteran entrepreneurs.

Applications for our 2026 cohort close on April 30. Learn more at utc.edu/VEP.

11/20/2025

The Military Times has again ranked The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga as one of the 'Best for Vets' universities. More than 15% of UTC's enrollment has military connected students from veterans to active duty personnel. UTC is committed to support veterans by ensuring they have the resources that can support them and their families.

Read the blog to learn more.
https://blog.utc.edu/news/2025/11/utc-recognized-among-nations-best-veteran-supporting-universities-by-military-times/

The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga has again been recognized by Military Times as one of the nation’s top universities for veterans and military-connected students. UTC placed second among Tennessee institutions and is the only university in the state recognized for offering both tradition...

11/13/2025

We helped sponsor UTC's military appreciation game last weekend, and what a turn out! We reconnected with some of our graduates, lecturers and advisors, and met some new folks as well. During the game, we honored Katrina Craven for her support of the program over the last 12 years. If you've been around VEP in any capacity, you've probably interacted with Katrina and benefited from her wisdom. During halftime, Sandy Cordell and Bret Moldenhauer visited the radio booth to talk about VEP, its impact, and how to get involved.

It was a day to remember. Thanks to everyone who came out — familiar faces and new friends. We're grateful for all your support!

Applications are open for our next cohort of the Veterans Entrepreneurship Program. Learn more or apply today! https://www.utc.edu/gary-w-rollins-college-of-business/outreach-programs/national-veterans-entrepreneurship-program

11/11/2025

Today we honor our veterans, the men and women who served our country -- past, present, and future. We appreciate your sacrifice and your courage, and we know our country is better because of you. Thank you.

As veterans, we understand the transition from military to civilian life can be a bit of a culture shock. If you're planning to launch a business, let us partner with you to get it off the ground. You'll have the camaraderie of other veteran entrepreneurs and the expertise of industry professionals -- all for free. Applications are open for the 2026 cohort of the Veterans Entrepreneurship Program. Watch the video below to hear from the class of 2025 or visit our website to learn more: https://www.utc.edu/gary-w-rollins-college-of-business/outreach-programs/national-veterans-entrepreneurship-program

10/28/2025

We're proud to sponsor the UTC Military Appreciation football game on Nov. 8 against Furman. Join us at our tailgate for food, fun and camaraderie as we salute our heroes.

Veterans get into the game for free with a military ID. We also have a limited number of general admission tickets available to others in your party. Use this link to reserve tickets and let us know if you're coming to the tailgate: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/jaf7vqc/lp/8c2ffe7f-d2fb-49ec-a763-2074ba9dca36

10/07/2025

Today is Mocs Give Day! Your gift—no matter the size—helps us continue empowering veteran business owners through the VEP. Use the link below and select Rollins College of Business from the "Select area of support" dropdown. Then select Veterans Entrepreneurship Fund.

Thank you in advance for standing with our veterans and supporting their entrepreneurial journeys.

Join me in giving to UTC on Mocs Give Day!