Empowering Veterans Through Entrepreneurship: Warrior Rising’s SDVET Program
Editor’s Note: The sharing of any non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products and services on the part of the VA. Veterans should verify the information with the organization offering.
Are you a Veteran with dreams of entrepreneurship and business ownership? If so, you may find yourself in need of guidance to turn your ideas into reality. Fortunately, organizations like Warrior Rising are dedicated to helping Veterans like you embark on this exciting journey.
What is Warrior Rising?
Founded in 2015 by Veterans for Veterans, Warrior Rising is a non-profit organization committed to transforming Veterans into “Vetrepreneurs.” The organization aims to provide opportunities for Veterans to create sustainable businesses, hire fellow American Veterans, and secure their financial futures. With a focus on empowerment and community, Warrior Rising is a beacon of hope for those looking to navigate the complexities of starting a business.
Upcoming SDVET Online Course
One of the standout offerings from Warrior Rising is the Service-Disabled Veteran Entrepreneurs (SDVET) online course, which begins on February 27, 2025. Sponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration, this free program consists of four weeks of web-based instruction, followed by additional resources and support through Warrior Rising’s various initiatives, including:
Warrior Academy
Warrior University (a Veteran Business Accelerator program)
Virtual-live Coaching and Master Class sessions
Who Can Participate?
This program is specifically designed for service-disabled Veterans. However, Warrior Rising also offers other training programs for Veterans without service-disability requirements. Interested individuals can explore these options on the Warrior Rising website.
Registration Details
To ensure a smooth registration process, it’s crucial to verify the accuracy of all information, especially your email and phone number. Incorrect details may hinder your ability to receive important links and updates about the program. Notably, you do not need a Google account to register. If you meet the service disability requirement, you will be automatically admitted to the program.
Participants will receive the Zoom link for the sessions 1-2 days prior to the start date, so it’s advisable to check your spam folder to avoid missing out.
Course Structure
The SDVET program is structured into four comprehensive sessions:
Session 1: Introduction to Business
Overview of starting a business
Advantages of purchasing an existing business or starting a franchise
Identifying opportunities in business
Session 2: Market Understanding
Analyzing markets and competitive landscapes
Building your economic model
Session 3: Legal and Financial Foundations
Structuring legal entities and understanding insurance
Exploring financing options, including capital agreements and Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs)
Session 4: Business Planning
Creating a robust business plan
Exploring government contracting and available resources and certifications
This course is available to verified service-disabled Veterans across the U.S., making it accessible to a wide audience.
Important Dates
Mark your calendars for the virtual live sessions, which will take place via Zoom at 7 p.m. ET (4 p.m. PT) on the following dates:
February 27
March 6
March 13
March 20
If you miss a session, you can still join the remaining ones. The course is offered four times a year, so if you can’t make this session, there will be future opportunities.
Qualifications for Participation
To qualify for the SDVET program, participants must provide:
A DD-214 form (with Social Security Number blacklined)
A valid letter of disability from the VA (the benefit amount can be covered)
Documentation from the VA showing any disability rating
Current or widowed spouses of qualifying Veterans may also participate, provided they submit the required documentation.
Interested Veterans must be pursuing a career as an entrepreneur or business owner at the concept or early stage of business development.
Registration Deadline
Applications must be submitted by 10 p.m. ET on February 24, 2025. You can register through the Warrior Rising SDVET Program Registration link. The next presentation of this course will be in late May/early June 2025, and there is no waitlist for future sessions.
Conclusion
Warrior Rising is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization comprised of Veterans, offering free entrepreneurship training to current and former military service members. For more information, visit the Warrior Rising website or contact them at SDVET@WarriorRising.org. Remember to include your email address in your message to ensure a response.
By participating in programs like the SDVET course, Veterans can gain the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the world of business, paving the way for a successful entrepreneurial journey.
