FDU Offers Entrepreneurial Classes for Veterans

On Mar 10, 2017

Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Rothman Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship is offering the Veterans Launching Ventures (VLV) program, which provides the skills and support that veterans need in order to seize entrepreneurial opportunities and launch small businesses.

In the program, VLV veterans are each matched with a mentor who will assist and guide them for a period of 10 months following the completion of the 10-week course. Many of these newly-hatched businesses enter and contribute to the local and regional economy.

The program combines in-person instruction with online education to teach students the fundamental entrepreneurial skills required in today’s business environment, as well as the competencies needed to launch a new business.

Particular emphasis is placed on developing a robust marketing plan as well as a realistic business plan to help the veteran make an informed decision to start a business or assist and prepare the student for the general business environment. A team of experienced faculty and successful entrepreneurs will work with the veterans, providing an interactive and informative experience. Over a 10-week period, they will introduce entrepreneurship ideas and concepts, and show how to apply them to potential business opportunities.

“Our veterans get a new understanding of business through our program and many have gone on to launch successful businesses including franchises,” said Timur Pakay, executive director of the Rothman Institute.

The graduation and reception will take place at the end of the presentations on the final day; it will include the instructors, guest speakers, business leaders, mentors, and past students. Included in the program is a complimentary admission to a full year of the Rothman Institute’s popular entrepreneurship and innovation events (a $900 value).

The program is free and open to all veterans as well as their spouses and/or children. The cost of the program is being fully supported by the generous support from The Walmart Foundation, TD Charitable Foundation, Bank of America, Investors Foundation, Target, and the Jesra Foundation. A refundable deposit of $100 will be required of veterans who participate in the program. This deposit will be secured by credit card or check, and will be returned to the veterans who successfully complete the course.

The next in-person class begins on March 23, 2017 in Madison, NJ at FDU’s Florham Campus. A strictly online version is also available for veterans in the summer of 2017.

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