San Diego, January 14, 2026
San Diego’s Initiative for a Competitive Inner City (ICIC) is unveiling its Veterans Cohort program on January 27, aimed at supporting veteran and military-connected entrepreneurs. Backed by Kaiser Permanente and local organizations, the program offers essential skills and resources to empower established business owners. This initiative addresses unique challenges faced by veterans in the business landscape, focusing on mental wellness, workplace inclusivity, and business growth strategies.
San Diego Launches Veterans-Focused Business Program
New initiative aims to empower veteran entrepreneurs with essential skills
San Diego, CA – The Initiative for a Competitive Inner City (ICIC) is set to empower veteran and military-connected small business owners through its inaugural Veterans Cohort, part of the Inner City Capital Connections (ICCC) program, launching on January 27, 2026. This timely initiative is supported by Kaiser Permanente and several organizations dedicated to the veteran community, including the Veterans in Business (VIB) Network and the San Diego Military Advisory Council (SD MAC).
Entrepreneurs have long been recognized as the backbone of the economy, displaying remarkable determination and resilience. In San Diego, reducing red tape and providing targeted support can significantly enhance the potential for business growth, particularly for those who have served our nation. The Veterans Cohort aligns perfectly with this philosophy, offering robust resources tailored specifically to the needs of those transitioning from military service to entrepreneurship.
Program Overview
The Veterans Cohort is meticulously designed for established veteran and military-connected business owners who are actively operating and aiming to expand their enterprises. Notably, the program is not intended for early-stage startups or individuals nearing the end of their military careers.
Participants in the program can expect to engage in a variety of topics that address the distinct challenges faced by veteran-owned businesses. The curriculum includes:
- Strategies for adapting and persevering as a veteran-owned business
- Guidance for military spouses aiming to establish stable businesses
- Essential certifications necessary for government and corporate contracting
- Focus on mental wellness for both business owners and their teams
- Creating inclusive workplace cultures blending veterans and civilians
Hybrid Learning Format
This comprehensive program is provided at no cost to participants and utilizes a hybrid model that spans 4 to 6 months, offering 40 hours of instruction. Key elements of the program include:
- An in-person opening seminar in San Diego
- Monthly virtual executive education sessions
- Peer group meetings for shared learning experiences
- One-on-one coaching opportunities
- A self-paced digital learning series
- An in-person capstone event to celebrate participant growth and leadership
History and Impact of ICIC
The ICIC has been influential since its inception in 2005, with support from organizations, including a founding grant from Bank of America. To date, the ICCC program has aided over 5,800 small business owners from under-resourced communities, providing capacity-building education, coaching, and vital connections to capital.
Kaiser Permanente’s continuous partnership with the ICCC program has facilitated numerous cohorts, reinforcing their commitment to empowering small business owners throughout California, including San Diego.
Commitment to Veteran Entrepreneurs
The launch of the Veterans Cohort adds a meaningful layer to the existing efforts supporting veteran entrepreneurs. By leveraging the leadership, discipline, and resilience inherent to military training, this program aims to translate those attributes into actionable business strategies, fostering a thriving environment for veteran-owned businesses.
Final Thoughts
The Veterans Cohort in San Diego is a promising opportunity for veteran and military-connected business owners. By focusing on enhancing skills and providing essential resources, ICIC and its partners are poised to make a significant impact on the San Diego County economy. Interested business owners are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this valuable initiative to further their entrepreneurial journey.
For more details or to apply, interested business owners can visit the ICIC website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Veterans Cohort in San Diego?
The Veterans Cohort is a mission-focused executive education and technical assistance program designed specifically for veteran and military-connected small business owners in San Diego. It is part of the Inner City Capital Connections (ICCC) program launched by the Initiative for a Competitive Inner City (ICIC).
Who is eligible to participate in the Veterans Cohort?
The program is intended for established veteran and military-connected business owners who are actively operating and seeking to grow or scale their companies. It is not designed for early-stage startups or individuals in the process of transitioning out of military service.
What does the program offer?
The Veterans Cohort offers exclusive programming tailored to the experiences and needs of veteran and military-connected entrepreneurs, including:
- Adapting and persevering as a veteran-owned business
- Building a stable business as a military spouse
- Certifications every veteran-owned business needs for government and corporate contracting
- Mental wellness for business owners and employees
- Building inclusive workplace cultures for veterans and civilians
What is the structure of the program?
The program is a no-cost, hybrid model delivered over 40 hours across 4–6 months. It includes an in-person opening seminar in San Diego, monthly virtual executive education sessions and peer group meetings, one-on-one coaching, a self-paced digital learning series, and an in-person capstone event celebrating participant growth and leadership.
How can I apply for the program?
Interested business owners can apply by visiting the ICIC website.
Key Features of the Veterans Cohort Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Target Audience | Established veteran and military-connected business owners seeking to grow or scale their companies. |
| Program Duration | No-cost, hybrid model delivered over 40 hours across 4–6 months. |
| Program Components | In-person opening seminar, monthly virtual executive education sessions, one-on-one coaching, self-paced digital learning series, in-person capstone event. |
| Sponsorship and Support | Sponsored by Kaiser Permanente with support from Veterans in Business (VIB) Network, San Diego Military Advisory Council (SD MAC), SoCal Veterans Outreach Center, and National Veterans Transition Services, Inc. (NVTSI). |
| Eligibility | Designed for established veteran and military-connected business owners actively operating and seeking to grow or scale their companies; not intended for early-stage startups or individuals transitioning out of military service. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Chula Vista Secures $1 Million to Boost Affordable Housing
Funding Cuts Impact Men’s Health Services in San Diego
San Diego County Parks to Implement Fee Increase
San Diego’s Homelessness Crisis: Business Community Impacts
San Diego Nonprofit Events to Brighten Your December
San Diego FC Advances to MLS Western Conference Final
New Collaboration Aims to Support Former Foster Youth in San Diego
San Diego International Airport Anticipates Record Thanksgiving Travel
Significant Flight Delays and Winter Storm Warnings in San Diego
Study Reveals Positive Effects of Surf Therapy on Veterans
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
