Grants now available for non-profit organizations to help veteran entrepreneurs, improve employment

Applications due September 14, 2018

Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) announced that grant applications are now being accepted from registered 501(c)(3) or 501(c) (6) non-profit organizations that provide entrepreneurship training, or technical, business or other assistance to veteran entrepreneurs to improve employment outcomes. Non-profit organizations interested in applying for this grant opportunity must submit their completed applications by Friday, September 14, 2018.

“Entrepreneurship and military service go hand-in-hand,” Secretary Daniel J. Zimmerman said. “A tireless work ethic, dedication, and selflessness are just a few common elements. Veterans make great entrepreneurs because these traits are nurtured in them from the first days of their military service. WDVA is excited to support those veterans interested in realizing their dreams of owning and operating a successful business.”

The Wisconsin Entrepreneurship Grant program includes a maximum total of up to $400,000 during the period of July 2, 2018 – June 30, 2019. To qualify, non-profit organizations must be located in this state and registered and in good standing with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.

In 2017, six non-profit organizations received a Wisconsin Entrepreneurship Grant. Grantees used funds awarded to provide veterans with entrepreneurial training and technical support such as business classes, business skills assessment, educational workshops, field experience, peer support, and business mentoring. Grants were also used to provide veterans career-building skills such as volunteer management, fundraising, scheduling, and marketing.

The following criteria and more will be evaluated as part of the grant application:

• Background and organizational history
• Experience working with veterans
• Need for grant funding
• Outreach and referral plan
• Program goals and objectives
• Past working relationships with start-up businesses and entrepreneurship programs

Application materials for this grant are available online at https://dva.wi.gov. Applications and questions about the grant application process should be directed to Chad McCafferty or Leslie Busby-Amegashie at 1-800-WIS-VETS or vetsbenefitsgrants@ dva.wisconsin. gov.