Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurs
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Office of Veterans Services and its annual entrepreneurship bootcamp embody Saint Joseph’s Jesuit values, fostering ethical business practices and community support for veterans.
Members of the fourth cohort of the Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans
Since its inception in 2014, Saint Joseph’s Office of Veterans Services has been dedicated to supporting veterans as they transition from military service to civilian life. In its 10 years, the office has also empowered more than 240 veterans through its signature program, the Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans (EBV).
The EBV is a rigorous, multi-phase program that provides the necessary tools and education for veterans who want to start or grow their businesses. Each spring, participants immerse themselves in the entrepreneurial process, gaining valuable insights from seasoned veteran entrepreneurs who have successfully navigated the business world. The program is free for veterans — thanks to partial funding from the U.S. Small Business Administration, along with grants from corporations such as the Wells Fargo Foundation — with Saint Joseph’s covering transportation and lodging costs.
“Our goal is to provide them with the skills and awareness of the entrepreneurship journey, ensuring they have a reasonable opportunity for success from the outset,” says Hank Gillen, U.S. Army veteran and director of the Office of Veterans Services (OVS). “These veterans have served our country and we are here to help them in their next phase of life, serving their communities.”
A cornerstone of the program’s success is the ongoing mentorship and support network, often facilitated by Saint Joseph’s alumni like Francis “Frank” Trainer, BS ’68, H ’19, who was instrumental in establishing the OVS. In March 2024, five program graduates returned to share their expertise and advice with the newest cohort.
These veterans have served our country and we are here to help them in their next phase of life, serving their communities.”
Hank Gillen
U.S. Army Veteran and Director of the Office of Veterans Services“I have never had formal business training, but after going through the EBV, it helped me believe that I can do this and succeed,” says Sharon Martin, U.S. Army veteran and owner of Managed Nerds, a cybersecurity company helping small businesses. “If I had to say one thing I came out with from the program, it is confidence.”
According to Gillen, 33% of veterans who are not in business when they attend the bootcamp begin their entrepreneurial journey within 12 months. Saint Joseph’s dedication to supporting veterans is further underscored by its ranking as the second-best regional university for veterans in the North, according to U.S. News & World Report.
“As a Jesuit institution, having an office dedicated to supporting our veterans is not just appropriate, it’s essential,” says Gillen. “Looking ahead, I’m excited to enhance our impact on the program’s alumni by creating opportunities for them to give back, connect with future cohorts and continue their own journeys. Whether launching a business or advancing in their current endeavors, our goal is to be a lasting resource at every stage of their careers.”