About Us – Veterans Business Outreach Center

About Us

Veteran Business Outreach Center (VBOC) at Penn State Mission

The VBOC at Penn State empowers veterans, active duty service members, National Guard members, Reservists, and military spouses by providing expert guidance, comprehensive training, and access to a robust network of resources, fostering entrepreneurship and business success across Pennsylvania.

An Ecosystem of Support

The VBOC at Penn State serves as the gateway to a network of resource partners across Pennsylvania, including SBDCs, SCORE chapters, LaunchBox and Innovation Network, Women’s Business Centers, and more. These collaborations ensure service members, veterans, National Guard and Reserve members, and military spouses receive comprehensive support in training, funding, and business development, leveraging the expertise of multiple organizations to provide tailored assistance for entrepreneurs in Pennsylvania.

Leveraging Penn State Resources

Affiliation with Penn State enhances the VBOC’s mission by providing unparalleled access to the University’s extensive entrepreneurial resources and expertise. Penn State’s LaunchBox and Innovation Network, combined with its research capabilities and statewide connections, create a strong foundation for supporting veteran entrepreneurs. This partnership ensures veterans receive cutting-edge training, mentorship, and opportunities to succeed in Pennsylvania’s dynamic business environment.

Meet Our Director

Hazel Diaz, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and Penn State alumna, is the director of the Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) at Penn State. She brings a wealth of experience, having managed veteran-focused programs like NPR’s Military Voices Initiative, where she cultivated partnerships and advocated for veterans. Hazel also served as an economic development analyst for the Commonwealth of PA, showcasing her dedication to community development. Passionate about empowering veterans, Hazel leads efforts to connect Pennsylvania’s veteran community with entrepreneurial resources and opportunities.

Grand Opening – November 2024

Questions on how to get started?

Veterans Crisis Line

Are you a veteran in crisis or concerned about one? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line.