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GVSU launches new entrepreneur veteran program

This program will be free for veterans looking to get all the tools to start or grow a company.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - Grand Valley State University wants to give those who fought for our freedom a chance to have a little bit of their own. The school is starting an entrepreneur veteran program.

GVSU is looking to fill at least 15 spots as they launch Michigan Veteran Entrepreneur Lab at the downtown campus. This program will be free for veterans looking to get all the tools to start or grow a company.

BY THE NUMBERS

According to GVSU, Michigan has some of the highest unemployment rates in the country for veterans, 16.2 percent for those between the ages of 18 to 24

2.4 million U.S businesses are owned by veterans, according to Entreprenuer.com.

Studies show veterans are 45 percent more likely to be self-employed than those with no military experience.

THE PROGRAM

These statistics are why GVSU introduced the Michigan Veteran Entrepreneur Lab.

"We want to make it possible for veterans of any age particularly young people to launch if they have an idea," Julie Cowie, the Program Manager told 13 ON YOUR SIDE on Monday.

MVE Lab is a nine week course that teaches vets all they need to know about building a business, with the opportunity for some funding as well.

"The final piece of the program is a pitch event where people can win money to help their launch," Cowie said.

This is a big change for those to get involved in an industry that's continuing to thrive.

"We know that military people are trained to stay alive. When they're in combat to look out for their buddy and to accomplish the mission and entrepreneurship uses those same principles."

The program will begin at the end of August. You can register online.

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