The University of New Mexico partnered with Hesperus to successfully host the fourth cohort for the Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Native American Veterans (EBV-NAV), an innovative initiative designed specifically for Native veterans in New Mexico and the broader Southwest Region. This three-phase program empowers participants by equipping them with the essential tools and knowledge to thrive in the world of entrepreneurship.
Participants engaged in Phase 1 online, earning their Entrepreneurial Capabilities Certificate from the NM Rainforest University Center. Upon completing Phase 1, participants were then qualified to participate in Phase 2 which was held in-person at the Lobo Rainforest Building September 21 – 24.
Nine veterans participated in Phase 2 which consisted of multiple presentations, mentorship opportunities, and networking sessions, all tailored to help translate their skills gained through their military service into successful business ventures. The curriculum covered a wide range of topics, including business planning, financial management, marketing strategies, and leadership development.
On the evening of September 23, the nine veterans attended the program reception where they had the opportunity to practice their networking skills and pitch their business ideas to a live audience of sponsors, fellow veterans, and community members. Upon graduating from Phase 2, participants move on to Phase 3 which consists of additional virtual mentoring and ongoing support from Hesperus, UNM Rainforest Innovations, and partners.
Program participants reflecting on their experience shared the following:
“The program not only motivated me to continue working on my nonprofit, but the one-on-one with Matt inspired me and helped me to consider leadership using a military mindset that I immediately implemented and in less than 48 hours has produced amazing results. I would absolutely recommend this program to any native veteran who has been hesitant about starting a business or nonprofit. You will gain friendships, knowledge and connect with a part of yourself that sometimes it’s so easy to forget is there. We all have a warrior spirit. We just need a space to be reminded. Hesperus is that place.”
“This is an excellent program. Having a common experience in the military with all the cohorts was a plus. I learned a lot from this program. All the presenters are experts in their respective business ventures and hearing from them was very insightful. There is a lot more to learn and I definitely have some homework to do. I appreciate everyone involved and all the supporters. Ahe’hee”
By equipping participants with the necessary skills and resources, the EBV-NAV program hopes to stimulate economic growth and foster the creation of sustainable businesses that benefit both participating veterans and their communities.
Thank you to our generous sponsors who made this event possible including Hesperus, Wells Fargo, PNM, and Comcast Military.
