Technology ‘boot camp’ looking for veterans

Technology ‘boot camp’ looking for veterans

TechStars, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping veteran entrepreneurs raise capital and start successful businesses, is hosting a Patriot Boot Camp for veterans and spouses who are interested in starting technology companies. The boot camp is a three-day program, held at Georgetown University from July 17-19, that will teach attendees the ins and outs of creating a technology startup.

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“Veterans are by definition great entrepreneurs,” said Taylor McLemore, director of Patriot Boot Camp. “They are natural problem solvers, adapt quickly to needs, and have an incredible level of tenacity. We will be very well served if veterans lead the businesses of our future.”

The three-day, intensive camp is free to veterans and spouses and offers one-on-one mentoring from industry leaders and fellow entrepreneurs, business presentations with practical advice on building a technology startup, and rich networking opportunities.

“Patriot Boot Camp is an absolute must for any veteran or spouse who has an idea for a technology business,” said Army veteran Mary Hagy, a Legionnaire and founder and CEO of cWyze, Inc. Hagy was also a judge of the Legion’s 2013 National Oratorical Contest and a current member of the Legion’s Business Task Force.

Throughout the three-day event, attendees will be guided through an entrepreneurial plan, which includes finding a business idea, developing a fundraising pitch, improving accelerator application, refining the product concept and demonstrating progress toward entrepreneurial success. Each participant can then share his or her progress with the Patriot Boot Camp cohort.

The online application can be found on the TechStars website. The deadline to apply is June 5.