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Bob Evans Farms Launches Veteran Grant Program

Specialty Food Association

Bob Evans Farms has launched its fifth annual Our Farm Salutes “Heroes to CEOs” grant-giving program which gives American veterans the opportunity to present their business proposal to a panel of experienced corporate executives for a chance to win the program's grand prize, a $50,000 business grant. It will accept applications through July 31.

"Heroes to CEOs provides more than just a grant to servicemen and women; it gives veterans the opportunity to have access to counsel and mentorship from some of the top C-Suite level executives in the United States," said Mark Delahanty, CEO and president of Bob Evans Farms, in a statement. "We are inspired by the brave men and women who served our country and are proud to offer the opportunity to live out their dreams as successful entrepreneurs. We look forward to helping this year's winners begin their exciting new journey."

The Heroes to CEOs grant contest is open to any persons who are a veteran of any U.S. military branch, a legal resident of the United States or District of Columbia, are at least 18 years old, and own an independent registered business or have a plan for an independent business. Eligible entries will be scored based on reason, presentation, feasibility, opportunity, and anticipated future success of the business or plan submitted.

For a business to be considered, veteran entrepreneurs are required to submit a plan demonstrating a solid business concept, multimedia assets in a video format, and answer a series of questions about their business or business concept. Winners will be announced after September 2, 2021.

"We launched the Our Farm Salutes program to honor American service members, veterans, and their families through awareness, donations, strategic partnerships, grant opportunities, and volunteerism, and we are beyond excited to keep the momentum moving with the Heroes to CEOs program," said Thyme Hill, CMO of Bob Evans Farms, in a statement. "This marks another year of patriotic support for the brave Americans who have sacrificed their lives to keep us safe. Their commitment inspires our commitment to this ongoing initiative."

Related: New York Opens Small Business Recovery Grant ProgramBuyers' Picks: Diverse Food Brands.