Frequently Asked Questions
- - What is the Veterans Entrepreneurship Initiative (VEI)?
- - Why is VEI doing this?
- - What makes VEI different?
- - Is VEI only for startups?
- - Who is eligible to participate?
- - How can I participate?
- - How can I get assistance from VEI?
- - What kind of assistance does VEI provide?
- - How can I engage the VEI Team?
- - Does VEI provide financing?
- - What does it cost to meet with one of our coaches or mentors?
- - How can I become involved as a mentor and/or speaker for VEI?
- - How can I become involved as a sponsor or donate to VEI?
VEI is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and supporting veteran entrepreneurs. We offer coaching, one-on-one mentoring, educational classes, seminars, online tools and networking opportunities to our participants. While we are headquartered in Orlando, FL, we have the ability to serve veteran entrepreneurs all over the US.
If you are interested in joining our program, please email us or apply to one of our upcoming events.
VEI recognizes veterans are equipped with a powerful set of skills including leadership, striving for excellence and completing the mission. All of which make veterans excellent entrepreneurs. Since 2013, the Veterans Entrepreneurship Initiative has helped veterans realize and leverage those skills in an entrepreneurial setting.
VEI is a Veteran led organization. The industry certified staff have over 20 years of experience working within the Central Florida innovative and startup community assisting entrepreneurs and executives with the creation of business models, concept validation and scalability. Since inception, VEI has assisted over 400 veteran entrepreneurs. Over 27 veteran led companies engaged with VEI have created 203 direct jobs and generated over $17 Million in annual revenues.
Our primary function is to be a business resource for veteran entrepreneurs and veteran business owners at all levels. We work with business at all stages. Please visit our Programs page, to learn more about what we can offer your business at its current stage.
Active Duty Military, Veterans, National Guard/Reservists, and Military/Veteran Spouses. If you have a unique situation, please feel free to email us for further clarification.
Visit our Programs page to learn more about each program offered and how to apply or participate in each of them. (If active duty military, please enter your personal email address when completing the form.)
There are several ways to take advantage of VEI. Our website has a wealth of information to assist you. Take some time to scroll and review the Event or Program Schedules.
If you are launching or scaling a business and would like a one-on-one coaching session, please request an appointment on our Coaching and Mentoring page. We ask that you please complete the Request for Counseling Questionnaire before we meet. This will ensure you’ll receive the best possible service tailored to your specific business needs.
VEI offers educational programming, business coaching and information to help veterans validate ideas, strengthen business models or scale businesses. If you are looking for a specific service, please reach out and let us know. If we are not able to assist you, we probably know some who can!
Feel free to subscribe to our list serve on our website to stay up to date on our upcoming events and classes. You can also call us at 407-877-3488. You can also follow us on our social media platforms.
VEI does not provide financing. Our assistance is technical and educational. If you are looking for financing, please let us know and we will facilitate introductions to potential investors and/or financial institutions based on your specific business needs. VEI programs do provide resources and tools to help you prepare/refine your business pitch and financial projections.
VEI can provide business coaching and support at no charge thanks to the support of our partners and supporters. Fees may be collected for special events or programming to cover specific expenses.
If you’re interested in getting involved as a mentor and/or speaker for one of our upcoming programs, please complete the form and one of our staff members will get back to you as soon as possible. We are always looking for strategic partners and successful veteran entrepreneurs who are passionate about empowering veteran entrepreneurs.
If you’re interested in becoming a part of our sponsorship family, please email rebecca@vei.center. If you are interested in donating, please visit our website donation page for more information. If you have any questions, please email Rebecca.
