Learn more about the Southland Development Authority who is funding this training.

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SDA Vet Cohort 2 — 6-Week Accelerator

A hands-on virtual course that moves veteran-owned businesses from preparation to awarded contracts. Weekly instructor-led sessions, certification prep, bid support, and direct access to procurement mentors.

Cohort 2 delivers actionable training, templates, and coaching to help veteran entrepreneurs win government and commercial work. Expect live workshops, step-by-step bid readiness, and a certification path that elevates credibility with contracting officers.

Confident veteran entrepreneur portrait, isolated on transparent background

SDA Vet Cohort 2 — 6-Week Accelerator

A hands-on virtual course that moves veteran-owned businesses from preparation to awarded contracts. Weekly instructor-led sessions, certification prep, bid support, and direct access to procurement mentors.

Cohort 2 delivers actionable training, templates, and coaching to help veteran entrepreneurs win government and commercial work. Expect live workshops, step-by-step bid readiness, and a certification path that elevates credibility with contracting officers.

Program Overview

This six-week virtual accelerator combines live instruction, cohort peer feedback, one-on-one mentor hours, and guided certification prep (SBA, NAICS briefings, and procurement readiness). Graduates leave with bid-ready documentation and a prioritized opportunity plan.

Wide landscape image of a virtual workshop scene with coaching slides and a focused laptop in the foreground.

What You’ll Gain

Tangible outcomes focused on readiness, credentials, and revenue generation strategies — each column highlights a specific, measurable benefit for veteran entrepreneurs.

Certifications

Receive guided prep for procurement-relevant credentials and certificates that increase buyer confidence, including a clear checklist and practice materials for faster approvals and listed credibility.

Contracts Strategy

Learn a step-by-step approach to identify target procurements, assemble compliant proposals, and price competitively so your business can respond quickly and confidently to opportunities.

Business Confidence

Gain negotiation frameworks, outreach scripts, and pitch templates that help you convert leads into awarded contracts while building a repeatable sales pipeline for public and private sectors.

Curriculum Snapshot

Six weekly modules covering market research, capability statements, compliance checklists, proposal writing, pricing strategies, and post-award contract management. Each live session includes templates and a practical assignment for tangible progress.

  • Week 1: Market mapping
  • Week 2: Capability building
  • Week 3: Certification prep
  • Week 4: Proposal mechanics
  • Week 5: Pricing & negotiations
  • Week 6: Post-award operations

Instructors & Mentors

Experienced procurement advisors and successful veteran founders lead sessions and provide one-on-one clinics. Mentors include former contracting officers and certified small-business consultants who review participant deliverables.

— Dr. Jerry Bell Jr. , Owner JBJBusinessGroup Inc, West Point Graduate

— Robert McGraw, MBA, CPTD, Owner Full Swing, Marine Vet

Schedule & How to Register

Cohort runs weekly over six weeks with evening and recorded options. Spaces are limited to preserve mentor access — complete the registration form to claim a seat and get onboarding resources before week one.

Calendar and checklist on a clean desk illustrating cohort scheduling and registration.

What Graduates Say

Short, vetted quotes from past participants that highlight practical outcomes, improved confidence, and real contract wins after program completion.

"The Cohort helped me get the how to that will help my business grow."

— L Tompos, West Point Graduate

“I'm more aware of what I need to work on and improve. 

— R Dickensen, Air Force Vet

“I feel good about what I can do as an entrepreneur to affect change in the lives of millions of fellow veterans.”

— Chief Bud, Army Vet Founder

FAQ

Frequently asked questions addressing eligibility, time commitment, pricing, certification relevance, and next steps once accepted.

Who is eligible to join?

Veteran-owned businesses, veteran founders, and veteran spouses are eligible.

What is the time commitment?

Expect one 90-minute live session per week plus two to four hours of practical assignments and mentor clinics. Sessions are recorded for later review if you must miss a meeting.

Does this include certification prep?

No, however it will increase your knowledge and network

Is there follow-up support after the six weeks?

We will introduce you to SDA apex who can assist you

How do I secure a seat?

Complete the registration form and submit a short eligibility questionnaire. Seats are confirmed on a first-come, qualified basis with priority for veteran-owned businesses.

Email: [email protected] | Phone: 1-815-782-0773 |

Address: 25143 Thornberry Dr. Plainfield, IL, 60544

© 2025 JBJBusinessGroup Inc