Ten accelerators and incubators that help veteran and military-connected founders build, test, and scale a company.
The short version
Accelerators and incubators give veteran founders structure, mentorship, and a network to move a business forward. Most military-focused ones are free. This list covers ten, from early idea-stage incubators to growth-stage accelerators. Pick one that matches where your company is today.
Source: D'Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families
How to use this list
These are vetted, not ranked, and being listed here is not an endorsement. Cohort dates, eligibility, and terms change often, so confirm current details and deadlines on each official site before you apply. If you are still serving, a SkillBridge window can free up time to join a program before you separate.
Accelerator or incubator: which do you need?
An incubator suits an early idea, giving you time, space, and coaching to shape a concept. An accelerator suits a company with early traction, running a fixed cohort with mentorship and, sometimes, a demo day or pitch event. Match the format to your stage so you get the most from it.
The 10 programs
- Military Founders Lab (Bunker Labs, under IVMF): The virtual cohort that carries Bunker Labs forward inside IVMF, with tools, mentorship, and a peer network. It fits early founders who want community. Check current cohorts on the IVMF site.
- EBV Accelerate (IVMF): A growth-stage program for veteran business owners ready to scale an existing company. It fits founders past the launch phase. Apply through the IVMF site.
- DAV Patriot Boot Camp: A no-cost intensive from DAV with education, mentorship, and a pitch contest for military-connected founders, including spouses. It fits early-stage founders. Watch the site for cohort dates.
- PenFed Foundation Veteran Entrepreneur Program: A free program with an incubator track for early-stage founders and an accelerator track for growth-stage businesses. The Foundation states it does not take equity. It fits founders at either stage. Apply on the site.
- Techstars: A global accelerator network that runs defense and dual-use programs, including cohorts tied to the U.S. Space Force and Air Force, commonly used by veteran founders in national security tech. It fits founders raising and scaling in that space. Review open programs on the site.
- Dog Tag Fellowship: A five-month fellowship in Washington, D.C. blending a Georgetown University business certificate with hands-on operation of its bakery. It fits veterans with service-connected disabilities, spouses, and caregivers. Apply on the site.
- VETRN: A tuition-free program that functions like an incubator for veteran and military-family owners, pairing curriculum with mentors. It fits owners building a real operating business. Apply on the site.
- Founder Institute Veteran and Military Family Accelerator: A structured accelerator for U.S.-based startups with a service member, veteran, or military spouse on the executive team, with scholarship support for eligible founders. It fits founders who want a rigorous build program. Check eligibility on the site.
- The Rosie Network Service2CEO: A free, individualized program that walks founders from concept to launch with mentorship. It fits family-owned and spouse-owned startups. Apply on the site.
- Warrior Rising (Warrior University): A growth-focused program for veterans actively running a business, layered on Warrior Rising's free training and pitch events. It fits veterans past the idea stage. Start on the site.
Frequently asked questions
Do accelerators take equity?
Some do, some do not. Many military-focused programs, like the PenFed Foundation program, state they take no equity. Private accelerators such as Techstars may invest for a stake. Read the terms before you join.
Are these free?
Most veteran-focused programs on this list are free. A few private accelerators invest capital in exchange for equity rather than charging tuition. Confirm on each site.
Can I apply while still on active duty?
Often, yes. Many programs accept active-duty members, Guard, and Reserve. If you are transitioning, consider timing a cohort with your TAP schedule.
What is the difference between this and a funding source?
An accelerator builds your company and network and may connect you to capital. It is not itself a guaranteed check. Look at dedicated funders separately.
Do I need a working product?
Not always. Incubator-style programs take early ideas, while accelerators usually want some traction. Match the format to your stage.
What if I am in defense or dual-use tech?
Look at Techstars defense and space programs and the veteran-focused funds, since that ecosystem has grown. Confirm current cohorts and criteria.
Where to get help
Verification Notes
- Bunker Labs now operates as the Military Founders Lab within IVMF, which acquired it in 2024. Confirmed on the IVMF site.
- The Second Service Foundation was considered as an accelerator-adjacent option but dropped, as it states it has voluntarily shut down and is transitioning to a new faith-based nonprofit.
- Techstars is not veteran-exclusive. Its defense, space, and dual-use accelerators are open to founders broadly and are commonly used by veterans. Patriot Boot Camp began at Techstars and is now run by DAV. Confirm current programs on each site.
- Cohort schedules, tracks, and any equity terms change. Confirm current details on each official site.
Sources & links
VetraFi does not provide financial, investment, tax, legal, or accounting advice. The content provided is for informational purposes only. You should consult your own advisors before engaging in any transaction.
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