Salute the Troops Hosts Vetrepreneur Project Cohort in Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is set to host a significant entrepreneurial event as Salute the Troops, in partnership with the Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce (WVCC) and The Venture Project, will run its next Vetrepreneur Project cohort from October 24-26, 2025, at Chula Vista Resort. This three-day program will feature training, mentorship, and a live pitch contest awarding $8,500 in total prizes to support the growth of veteran-owned businesses. Thirty veteran entrepreneurs will be selected for the October cohort, with all expenses covered, including lodging, conference sessions, and program materials.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Vetrepreneur Project will host its next cohort at Chula Vista Resort in Wisconsin Dells from October 24-26, 2025.
  • The three-day program will feature training, mentorship, and a live pitch contest awarding $8,500 in total prizes.
  • Thirty veteran entrepreneurs will be selected for the October cohort, with all lodging, conference sessions, and program materials provided at no cost.
  • Families are welcome to attend, receiving complimentary water park passes.
  • The program is made possible through the generous support of Wisconsin Business Development (WBD), the largest supporter of The Vetrepreneur Project.
  • Eligible applicants must reside in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, or Michigan, be a U.S. military veteran or currently serving on active duty, and own at least 50% of their business.
  • The Vetrepreneur Project has supported 47 startups since its inception, awarded $43,250 in direct financial support, and provided nearly $100,000 worth of additional programming value through mentorship, training, and resources.
  • The program's Executive Director, Jason Turner, emphasized the importance of empowering veterans not only with funding, but with the connections, training, and long-term support they need to grow.
  • The October event will feature interactive workshops, one-on-one mentorship, and networking with successful entrepreneurs, investors, and veteran business leaders, culminating in the pitch contest awarding $5,000, $2,500, and $1,000 to top business ideas.

Statistics:

  • $8,500 in total prizes will be awarded at the live pitch contest.
  • $5,000, $2,500, and $1,000 in prizes will be awarded to top business ideas.
  • 47 startups have been supported by The Vetrepreneur Project since its inception.
  • $43,250 in direct financial support has been awarded by The Vetrepreneur Project.
  • Nearly $100,000 worth of additional programming value has been provided through mentorship, training, and resources.

Sources:

  • Salute the Troops
  • Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce (WVCC)
  • The Venture Project
  • Wisconsin Business Development (WBD)
  • Jason Turner, Executive Director of Salute the Troops