(July 17, 2023) – STRIVE, a free entrepreneurship training program for veterans, reserve
and National Guard members, is taking applications for a course that begins September
14.
East Tennessee State University is the second institution in the nation to host a
STRIVE program thanks to a partnership with Syracuse University’s Institute for Veterans and Military Families, also known as IVMF.
“Helping those who have or are currently serving our country is an incredible honor,”
said ETSU’s Mark Bays, director of the Tennessee Small Business Development Center.
“Nationwide, IVMF has assisted more than 70,000 veteran entrepreneurs, and we are
proud to help that same group here in the Appalachian Highlands.”
The program teaches participants how to launch a business. Following completion of
STRIVE, graduates receive post-program support from the national IVMF network.
Consisting of online coursework and evening meetings, the class takes place on the
James H. Quillen VA Medical Center at Mountain Home. The program is free and lasts
eight weeks.
The university has a long and established history of helping veterans, and has secured
the respected Military Friendly designation for more than a decade.
“ETSU has so many wonderful faculty and staff who are proud to assist our veterans,”
said Dr. Bill Heise, professor of practice in the Department of Management and Marketing. “The STRIVE curriculum is exceptional, and we encourage those interested to consider
applying for the program.”
For additional information and to apply, visit etsu.edu/strive.
