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Support the Veterans Entrepreneurship Program

Veterans who have served our country deserve opportunity, not barriers. The Veterans Entrepreneurship Program at Oklahoma State University equips veteran participants with business training, coaching, and resources to start their own businesses or expand their current ventures—at no cost to them.

 

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Questions? Connect with our team

Director, Riata Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Chad H. Mills

Director, Riata Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
chadhm@okstate.edu
405-744-4350

Contact

Why it mattersYour generosity makes it possible for veterans to participate in the program at no cost. Each gift helps them turn their experience and determination into successful businesses—creating jobs, building confidence, and strengthening communities across the nation.

How you make a difference

Your generosity helps ensure that the Veterans Entrepreneurship Program remains free for every participant. Donations and in-kind gifts cover essential expenses that make the program possible:

  • Operational Costs: Program materials, software, and participant stipends
  • Meals & Hospitality: Meals and refreshments during cohort sessions
  • Speakers & Workshops: Guest speaker travel and key note speaker honorarium
  • Venue & Facilities: Meeting room space and event rentals
  • Marketing & Outreach: Promotion, community engagement, and event materials

 

Ways to give

There are several ways you can contribute to the success of our veteran entrepreneurs:

  • Monetary donations: [Use "Give" button above] to make a secure online gift directly to the VEP fund.
  • Recurring gifts/sponsorships: Provide ongoing support or sponsor a specific event or cohort.
  • In-kind donations: Meals, meeting space, printing, hospitality, or guest speaker sponsorships.
  • Volunteering / pro bono services: Mentorship, business consulting during Phase III, legal or tax advising, and other professional expertise.

 

Interest Form

Recognition & appreciation

We are deeply grateful for every contribution to the Veterans Entrepreneurship Program.

  • All donors and in-kind sponsors are recognized (unless anonymity is requested) on our website, at events, and in program materials.
  • Major sponsors may receive additional recognition opportunities including: Event naming options, logo placement in select materials, & invitations to opening reception, closing banquet and Pitch & Poster day.

Our impact at a glanceYour support.  Their success.


381
Veterans Empowered

Graduates of the OSU Veterans Entrepreneurship Program since 2010 (972 system-wide).
46
Product Concepts

Veterans who entered VEP with a product-based business idea.
335
Service Concepts

Veterans who entered VEP with service-oriented ventures.

Real Veteran, real impact.

Mike Burns, VEP 2024

The Oklahoma State University Veterans Entrepreneurship Program empowers our nation's heroes with education and lifelong support for success. As veterans we must honor those who didn't make it home by living our lives to the fullest. VEP equips us with the necessary tools and support for success beyond the battlefield. Personally, I gained more than just business skills; I gained courage and confidence in myself that has allowed me to realize no dream is too big. Most importantly, I gained a new family at OSU, who continue to support me even today, changing my life for the better.

- Michael Burns, U.S. Army, Medically Retired, SSG
VEP Class 2018

 

 

Mail-in Donations

To make a tax deductible donation via mail, make out a check to the OSU Foundation. Add the specific Fund name and ID number in the memo so we know where the proceeds should go.

 

Mail checks to:
OSU Foundation
PO Box 258818
Oklahoma City, OK 73125-9917

 

Thank you for your support!

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