Explore the STRIVE Program
The Startup Training Resources to Inspire Veteran Entrepreneurship (STRIVE) program is an entrepreneurship training program offered through Syracuse University’s D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) and the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE), in partnership with the Utah Veteran Business Resource Center (VBRC) at Salt Lake Community College (SLCC).
Disclaimer: Funded in Part by a Grant Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.
What STRIVE Offers
The STRIVE program offers veteran and military-connected entrepreneurs the opportunity to take an early-stage business idea through a rigorous six-week training program. The program leads to post-program support both locally and nationally through the IVMF network.
Eligibility
STRIVE is open to: veterans, active-duty service members, reserve and guard service members, military spouses, and graduates of other IVMF programs.
STRIVE is completely free of charge to program participants.
Get Started Today
Through online and in-person training, STRIVE will help you develop the competencies needed to create and sustain an entrepreneurial venture. You’ll get connected to local networks and educational resources in your community to support and advance your entrepreneurship goals.
STRIVE Phases
Phase One: Establish Connection with a VBRC/VBOC Business Advisor
- Register to meet with a business advisor through the VBRC and establish goals
- Apply to VBRC’s STRIVE program
Phase Two: Eight Weeks of In-Person Training
(Hybrid/online is available for eligible and approved students)
Classes include going from defining your business to market validation and business viability, to finance and capital readiness, and a final pitch about your business that you build during the course. You’ll walk away with relevant research and a tangible presentation about your business.
Phase Three: Post-Program Support
The VBRC team serves as your dedicated business squad, offering ongoing advising, one-on-one support, mentorship, events, and opportunities to showcase your business to other veteran-owned companies and broader audiences.
- Invitation to attend the annual Utah Veteran Owned Business Conference (May) and the Southern Utah UNITE Conference (November)
- Recognition on social media by the VBRC
- Membership in the original online Utah Veteran Business Community Facebook Group (@UtahVeteran Entrepreneurs)
- IVMF alumni services and support
- Additional courses available through IVMF’s programs
VBRC Offers Two STRIVE Programs
- The traditional course is open to all veterans and military-connected entrepreneurs who are looking to build their business and take it to the next level.
- The women-only course adds the perspective of how to navigate through the unique biases that successful women can encounter in business.
In both courses, you’ll create a presentation and conduct research to define your business, market, and industry. You’ll also learn what it means to be capital ready, understand key legal considerations, and connect with a network of fellow entrepreneurs. Graduates receive personalized support from VBRC business advisors, the regional Veteran Business Outreach Center (VBOC), and their local Small Business Development Center (SBDC), with additional resources available through the D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families.
Minnow Tank Pitch Competition
The Minnow Tank is a pitch competition for STRIVE graduates in which participants present business ideas for seed funding prizes that vary, with potential increases based on donations. The event fosters networking and long-term relationships among entrepreneurs and supporters.
Business Spotlights
Ryan Rutland
After retiring from the Army, Ryan Rutland turned his passion for firearms and innovation into Refuge Industries, a custom gunsmithing and defense contracting business based in Utah.
With support from the VBRC and the STRIVE entrepreneurship program, Ryan launched and grew his company, securing government contracts, building a competitive shooting team, and restoring heirloom firearms for families.
“I didn’t think running a business was this easy. It’s not just about making money – it’s about making memories, restoring legacies, and helping others find their path.” – Ryan Rutland, Co-Founder
Refuge Industries is more than a business. It’s a platform for veteran empowerment, youth engagement, and community building. With plans to expand facilities, co-sponsor national shooting events, and support local Legion youth programs, the company is poised for even greater impact.
Cap’n Tippy GrindHead Coffee
Cap’n Tippy GrindHead Coffee, co-owned by Tiffiny Hartwell and Jay Carlton, is more than just a coffee business; it’s a voyage into flavor and adventure. Inspired by their love for being baristas and serving people, Tiffiny and Jay launched their coffee shop with a dream: to bring joy, energy, and a touch of the high seas to every customer they meet. Whether you’re craving a bold coffee, a soothing chai, a refreshing lemonade, or a specialty energizer, Cap’n Tippy’s has a brew for every kind of explorer.
As proud participants in the STRIVE program, Tiffiny and Jay credit the VBRC for being a steady compass, offering support, sharing their journey, and helping them navigate the entrepreneurial waters. Their advice to fellow veteran entrepreneurs? “Attend the STRIVE classes and ask all the questions you may have.“
One milestone they’re proud to share: reaching one year in business after completing STRIVE, a meaningful step in their journey as veteran entrepreneurs. Follow Cap’n Tippy GrindHead Coffee here to join the journey: @capntippycoffee.slcut
Justus Verre
Ignition Health, owned by disabled veteran Justus Verre, is a premier acupuncture clinic dedicated to helping veterans and the community find relief from chronic pain, digestive issues, fatigue, and mental health challenges. Justus founded Ignition Health after experiencing firsthand the gaps in care for veterans. His mission is simple: provide effective, compassionate solutions that combine ancient practices with modern techniques to help people get better faster, and stay better longer.
Ignition Health offers services such as acupuncture, myofascial therapy, functional medicine, and Taiji Qi Gong. Veterans receive these services at no cost, and complimentary consultations are available to anyone looking for natural, proven approaches to health.
The VBRC has played a key role in Ignition Health’s growth, supporting Justus through the STRIVE program, connecting him to opportunities like the Minnow Tank pitch competition, which he won, and helping him secure the Comcast RISE Grant. Justus advises other veteran entrepreneurs by saying, “Take advantage of the VBRC because it’s the only one in the country. And we’re very fortunate here in Utah to have such amazing support for veteran entrepreneurs.