Pellissippi State Community College and the Tennessee Small Business Development Center invite veterans, active-duty members of the military, and their families to apply for the STRIVE program, which helps veteran entrepreneurs transform business ideas into successful ventures through hands-on training, mentorship, and community support.
Launched in 2024 in conjunction with Syracuse University’s Institute for Veterans and Military Families, STRIVE (Startup Training Resources to Inspire Veteran Entrepreneurship) is a 9-week, no-cost program for veterans and their family members who are interested in starting or growing their small business.
The 2025 cohort empowered 15 graduates to build or improve new or existing business ideas, from restaurants to retail.
“STRIVE empowers veterans and military families by equipping them with the tools, resources, and confidence needed to succeed in business ownership,” said Gregg Bostick, director of the Tennessee Small Business Development Center in Knoxville. “This program opens doors to economic opportunity while strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem in East Tennessee.”
Participants will gain practical business knowledge and connect with experienced entrepreneurs and mentors. The program is tailored for aspiring entrepreneurs at all stages — from those with a new idea to existing business owners seeking growth strategies. Course topics include business planning, marketing, competitive analysis, and more.
STRIVE, sponsored in part by the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship, culminates with a graduation ceremony at which participants present their business plans.
STRIVE’s 2026 cohort will launch September 17 and meet on Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. in the Ruth and Steve West Workforce Development Center at Pellissippi State’s Blount County campus.
Find out if you’re eligible and register for STRIVE. Local businesses, organizations, and individuals interested in supporting STRIVE through sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to contact Gregg Bostick at the Tennessee Small Business Development Center at gbostick@tsbdc.org or 865-246-2663.
Pellissippi State Community College is a public community college based in Knox and Blount counties in Tennessee and operated by the Tennessee Board of Regents. The college operates four campuses: Hardin Valley, Blount County, Strawberry Plains and Magnolia Avenue.
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