DOD Skillbridge/Self-Funded Search

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February 26, 2022

by a searcher from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Kenan-Flagler Business School in Indianapolis, IN, USA

Does anyone have any advice on how to leverage the DOD's Skillbridge program for a self-funded searcher? Skillbridge is generally to help transitioning veterans get exposure to civilian employment opportunities, but I was interested if anyone who pursued a self-funded route was able to utilize the program to attach themselves to an organization that gave them more time to search/find a business prior to exiting service? Thanks in advance.

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Reply by a searcher
from University of California, Berkeley in Bend, OR, USA
There is actually quite a lot of flexibility with the Skillbridge program, and it all comes down to how your commanding officer interprets it. It's been a couple years now, but I watched as 9 or 10 folks took off on Skillbridge programs, and some of those were completely self-generated (i.e. not formally listed Skillbridge partners). My commanding officer was quick to approve most anything as long as the plan was tight. If it were me, I would create a search entity, and then make the case that you want to go intern for this entity (even though you really are the entity), and propose to your boss how this will help you in transition. Again, it all boils down to your boss (but that's just the military!) The intent of Skillbridge is to prepare you for a civilian career, and you can easily make the case that this meets that mark. Another thing you could do, which I would also highly recommend, is to do an internship with a traditional search fund in parallel with your self funded search. DM me if you have any questions or want specifics!
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Reply by a searcher
from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in Indianapolis, IN, USA
Update: Thanks to all those who offered advice on this earlier. I was successful on getting my SB application approved to use my own search entity. Can only speak to the Marine Corps, but if anyone has any questions down the road, I'd be happy to share how I approached it. Could even pass the language I used on my form to make it through the review process.
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