(Photo courtesy of COCC)
Veterans Benefit Program
If you’re a veteran who owns an Oregon business, or if you’re thinking of starting one, there are several state, regional, and national resources you can leverage to help your business start, grow and thrive.
Did you know the veterans benefit program at COCC’s Small Business Development Center — the first of its kind in the state of Oregon — enables eligible vets and service members to enroll in educational programming using GI Bill assistance?
Approved by the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs, this benefit certification opens doors of opportunity for veterans throughout Central Oregon, funding access to non-credit business classes, entrepreneurial workshops, and an immersive Small Business Management Program.
From condensed digital marketing courses to upper-management decision-making training, discover the non-credit education options covered by the GI Bill and put your innovation into action. In addition, veterans who do not use GI Bill benefits are eligible for a 40% discount on SBDC offerings.
Veterans can contact the Small Business Development Center at 541-383-7290 or sbdc@cocc.edu to learn more and get started by scheduling a benefits appointment.
Learn about additional veterans benefits at COCC, including credit-based programs and student services.
Learn more about resources available for Oregon veteran-owned businesses.
Veteran Small Business Adviser — José Balcazar
José serves as the SBDC’s Veteran liaison, drawing from his own experience in the U.S. Army. He has been awarded the Distinguished Honor Graduate Award, several Certificates of Achievement, the Military Excellence Award and the Army Achievement Medal. José has owned several successful businesses and raised his two children in Central Oregon. As a bilingual small business adviser, he is well-positioned to help both our English and Spanish-speaking clients.
Veterans Services at COCC
Explore all Veterans Services at Central Oregon Community College, including our Veterans Center on our Bend Campus. COCC is honored to serve those who serve.
