From struggle to success: How DAV Patriot Boot Camp helped a Veteran entrepreneur thrive
The sharing of non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products or services by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Veterans should always verify information with the organization offering the program.
Jasmine Paul, inspired by a family history of service members and entrepreneurs, has long been driven to create solutions that address others’ problems. However, when facing her own challenges, she initially hesitated to seek help.
Her breakthrough came when she transformed her struggles into a business and again when she discovered DAV Patriot Boot Camp, a 3-day, in-person program that connects military affiliated entrepreneurs with free education, mentoring and a supportive community.
Paul’s journey to entrepreneurship began during her senior year of college when she was living out of her car and sleeping on friends’ couches. After commissioning into the Air Force, she realized she needed to get her finances under control. She dedicated herself to learning about money management and eventually became a finance officer, helping her fellow service members pay off more than $350,000 in debt for approximately 110 people.
“Everyone kept saying, ‘I wish I learned about money as a kid,’” Paul said. This inspired her to create The Wealth Playground, a youth financial education company offering books and curricula she authored, alongside virtual and in-person programs. She now works with nonprofits, schools and organizations to reach thousands of children.
Despite her success, Paul often felt isolated as an entrepreneur. The mentorship and camaraderie she found at DAV Patriot Boot Camp helped reignite her confidence. She credits the program’s personalized support with giving her a much-needed boost.
“Patriot Boot Camp gave me that hype I needed,” she said.
Since participating, Paul has won first place in her cohort’s pitch competition and went on to compete at the DAV national convention in Phoenix, Ariz., where she showcased her work. Her efforts have led to the addition of new products, recognition from the American Library Association, graduation from a Goldman Sachs accelerator, and over $45,000 in winnings and grants. She’s also forging partnerships with organizations like the Taco Bell Foundation.
Reflecting on her journey, Paul emphasized hope for others facing adversity. After more than a decade of military service and overcoming financial hardships, she wants fellow Veterans to know they’re not alone.
“There’s life after the military,” she said. “There are people who are going to support you and welcome you. There are programs like DAV.”
DAV Patriot Boot Camp
The next DAV Patriot Boot Camp is scheduled for June 10-12, 2026, in Salt Lake City. Applications are open at patriotbootcamp.org and will close once all seats are filled or by May 18, whichever comes first. Participants will have the chance to compete in a pitch contest with $10,000 in no-obligation funding prizes.
For more information about DAV Patriot Boot Camp, visit patriotbootcamp.org.