Startup Training Resources to Inspire Veteran Entrepreneurship (STRIVE)

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• STRIVE is a free 8-week in-person program for veterans with a budding business on the COCC Bend Campus. The program helps to identify, overcome and mitigate challenges to pave the way for veteran business ownership success.
• STRIVE empowers veterans, military members, and their families to live the American dream.
• STRIVE aims to open the door to economic opportunity for veterans, National Guard members, and reservists by developing their competencies in creating and sustaining an entrepreneurial venture.
• Complimentary refreshments provided at each session.
• $6,500 cash pool awarded to Pitch Your Idea competition winners.
• Post program support from COCC's Small Business Development Center and Syracuse University.

• Open to all honorably discharged Veterans, spouses, active duty service members (with less than one year before discharge), and current or former members of the National Guard or Reserves. 
• 50% or more of the business must be owned by a Veteran, active military service member, Reserve/Guard, or military spouse. 

Phase 1: Online pre-class assignments prior to in-class discussions. 

Phase 2: Interactive in-class discussions one morning per week for 8 weeks. Class meets every Tuesday from 9 am to noon, starting on October 6 and ending on November 24. Refreshments and a light breakfast provided. Classes will be held primarily on the Bend COCC campus. 

Phase 3: Matching participants with mentors that have the resources and experience to support the launch and growth of the business concept.