Florida State University’s Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship is launching a new Veteran Entrepreneurship Certificate Program in Bay County. The initiative, developed in partnership with Veterans Florida, will offer free, in-person entrepreneurship training for veterans, active service members, and military-connected families living in Northwest Florida.
The program is scheduled to take place on May 9 and May 16 at the FSU Panama City campus. Sessions will run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and enrollment is limited. The curriculum follows the Veterans Florida Getting Started model and covers practical business topics such as registration, marketing, financial basics, and obtaining capital. The goal is to help veteran entrepreneurs quickly move their ideas into action while connecting them with local resources.
“Veterans bring discipline, leadership, and problem-solving skills that translate naturally into entrepreneurship,” said Eric Liguori, associate dean for research and external relations at the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship. “This program is about meeting veterans where they are, providing practical tools, and surrounding them with a community that helps turn ideas into viable businesses.”
Bay County was selected because it has one of the highest concentrations of veterans in Florida. This makes it a strategic location for expanding access to entrepreneurship education and support services for small businesses.
“FSU Panama City is proud to support programming that aligns education, workforce development, and entrepreneurship in service of our veteran community,” said Randy Hanna, dean of Florida State University Panama City. “This program strengthens regional opportunity while honoring the experience and potential veterans bring to our local economy.”
Registration for the program is now open at https://fsu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_24cOh6P8Vpy9REq.
Graduates will receive a certificate from the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship as well as access to an alumni network comprising more than 2,700 business owners across Florida.
For further details or inquiries about sponsorships or partnerships related to this program, interested parties can contact Dr. Eric Liguori by email.
