Eligibility Criteria for the Tennessee Veteran Ready Business Program
· Have location(s) within the State of Tennessee
· Must currently be and remain in good standing with the State of Tennessee
(* TDVS reserves the right to remove any business that does not remain in good standing)
· Submit an online application by the annual October 31 deadline
· Provide a 100-250 word narrative detailing the business's culture and its dedicated support for SMVF
· Must have at least one SMVF employee
IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER WHEN FILLING OUT THE APPLICATION:
• Service members, Veterans, and their families will be referred to by the acronym SMVF throughout the application.
• All application questions must be answered in full, even if an answer is provided in the business profile.
• Be clear and concise on any explanation given within the application.
• Ensure that any documentation clearly explains how it addresses the question and applies to SMVF.
• Businesses applying for Silver or Gold levels that do not meet the qualifications for the requested level will be awarded the level for which they qualify for without notification.
Achieving the Bronze level signifies a business's foundational commitment to supporting veterans. Businesses at this level integrate veteran hiring into their recruitment policies and actively promote a culture that recognizes the service and sacrifices of veterans. Specific commitments include recognizing military service in hiring practices and providing support for veteran integration into the workforce.
- Document current number of SMVF employees, if applicable a Signed ESGR Statement of Support
- Accept military experience in place of secondary education or civilian certifications
- Inform SMVF employees about specific benefits and programs
- Utilize social media, websites, and job banks for SMVF recruitment
- Certificate of acknowledgment
- Window cling
- Digital badge
- Listing on tn.gov/veteran website
The Silver level is awarded to businesses that not only commit to hiring veterans but also actively engage in their career development. This level involves providing veterans with opportunities for growth and leadership within the organization. Businesses support veterans through targeted training programs, mentorship opportunities, and the creation of career paths that leverage their unique skills and experiences.
- All Bronze-level requirements
- SMVF employees participate in hiring process
- Attend at least one SMVF-targeted hiring event or equivalent
- Establish a Veteran Retention Program
- Maintain means or process for SMVF benefits education
- Collaborate with a Veteran-serving organization
- Regional recognition by Commissioner designee
- Award plaque and certificate
- Window cling
- Digital badge
- Listing on tn.gov/veteran website
Achieving the Gold level demonstrates a business's sustained commitment to making a broad-reaching impact on veterans' lives, both within and outside the organization. This includes establishing comprehensive programs such as veteran-focused resource groups, community service projects, and leadership initiatives that support and empower the entire veteran community. Gold level businesses are recognized for their exemplary practices and leadership in supporting veterans.
- All Bronze and Silver-level requirements
- Employ SMVF-focused personnel for outreach or hiring/retention
- Establish hiring and retention program for military spouses
- Utilize online military skills translator
- Create on-the-job training or apprenticeship programs for Veterans
- State recognition by Commissioner or designee
- Trophy and certificate
- Window cling
- Digital badge
- Listing on tn.gov/veteran website
