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Spears School of Business

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VEP eligibility includes:

  • Veterans separated from active duty service (or are currently in the administrative process of separating).

  • Veterans who demonstrate a strong interest in entrepreneurship and small business ownership/management.

  • Preference is given to applicants identified as disabled by the Veterans Administration based on a “service-connected” disability or are “service distinguished” based on exemplary military conduct.

Application details

  • Cost and logistics

    This program is entirely free to veterans. As a result of the generous support of OSU and the private giving of individuals and corporations, we are able to cover all cost for delegates accepted to the VEP.

  • Application procedures

    The VEP program represents a unique opportunity for men and women who have sacrificed for America’s freedom to take an important step toward realizing their own freedom – economic freedom – through entrepreneurship. VEP is a selective, rigorous, and intense educational initiative created to make a difference. Accordingly, the application process itself is rigorous and selective.

    Successful candidates for admission will demonstrate a strong interest in entrepreneurship, high motivation for owning and managing a business, and a high likelihood of successful completion of this intense training program.

  • Application deadline

    Dec. 8, 2024. Due to a high demand for program spots, apply early.

  • Application/program schedule

    June 17 – Dec. 8, 2024 – Applications Open

    • Applications are accepted for the VEP through 11:59 PM (CST) on Dec. 8, 2024.

    Dec. 11, 2024: Final Acceptance Notification

    • Applicants are notified of final admission or rejection on a rolling basis. Final notification is made to all applicants by Dec. 11, 2024. As there are limited number of spots, the selection committee must receive a signed commitment letter within one week of acceptance.

    Jan. 14 – Feb. 16, 2025: Concept Development & Self-Study

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

    Feb. 22 – March 1, 2025: VEP Boot Camp

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

    April 1 - August 31, 2025: Advising and Venture Development

    • Phase Three: Delegates are provided with five months of advising from entrepreneurs and subject matter experts across the nation, and online peer-to-peer networking.

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