RISE is a virtual, bootcamp-style program aimed at providing the tools and training needed to pivot and grow military family member/veteran-run businesses during challenging times. For six to ten hours a week, students complete coursework centered on head-on topics such as how to deal with financial, operational, strategic planning, and communication challenges; redetermining a company’s business model; content ideation; rebranding for reopening; determining a sustainable growth rate; and strategic assessment.
Eligible businesses can be sole proprietorships, large companies, or anything in between. To be eligible, a business needs to be operational for at least one year and run by either a first-degree military family member, veteran, or recipient of an honorable discharge.