Concept Development & Self-Study

Jan. 12 - Feb. 14, 2027

In Phase One, Delegates participate in a five-week self-study curriculum facilitated by an online discussion and assessment module moderated by Riata Center staff.

VEP Boot Camp

Feb. 20 - Feb. 27, 2027

Similar to military Boot Camp, this eight-day residency in Stillwater, Oklahoma is intense, rigorous and demanding. Delegates are exposed to the “nuts and bolts” of business ownership through experiential workshops and liaison from world-class faculty and seasoned entrepreneurs representing nationally ranked programs around the country.

Advising & Venture Development

April 1 - August 31, 2027

During this phase, Delegates are provided with five months of advising from entrepreneurs and subject matter experts across the nation and online peer-to-peer networking.

• What’s a good business concept and how can I determine if my idea is a good one?
• Do I really need a business plan and, if so, how can I write a great one?
• What do I need to know about my customers and market, and where do I find answers?
• How much money do I need and how do I get it?
• How do I make sense of the numbers, and which numbers really matter?

• What’s an economic or profit model, and does mine make sense?
• What do I need to know about operations and service delivery?
• What is guerrilla marketing? Are there ways to do more with marketing while spending less?
• Which activities should I outsource and what do I need to know about hiring employees?
• Where do I go to get the information I need to organize my new venture?