DAV Patriot Boot Camp opens applications for February program for Veteran entrepreneurs

Veterans and military spouses can apply for the next DAV Patriot Boot Camp, a three-day entrepreneurship program scheduled for Feb. 17-19 at DAV headquarters near Cincinnati, according to a story published by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Applications close Jan. 18 or when all seats are filled, whichever comes first.

The program offers training, mentoring and networking, the VA News story said. Selected participants can also compete in DAV Patriots Pitch, a "Shark Tank"-style contest in which Veterans and military spouses present business ideas to a panel of Veteran investors, industry experts and entrepreneurs. The contest offers up to $10,000 in non-dilutive funding prizes.

The story, written by a DAV communications associate, highlighted entrepreneur Katherine Pratt, who founded Synergistic Credit Union Solutions, a consulting firm that helps credit unions serve the Veteran community, in 2025. According to the story, connections Pratt made through the boot camp helped her create a nonprofit that connects Veterans with financial literacy and wellness resources. A fellow alumna or alumnus sits on its board, and a cohort mentor who is a licensed therapist serves as its mental health liaison.

Matthew Feldhaus, director of DAV Patriot Boot Camp, said community among alumni is critical to the program's success. The VA noted that sharing non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement.

Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Originally published by True News: https://truenews.bagleyenterprises.net/stories/721