Techstars announced this week the next Patriot Boot Camp event will take place Sept. 26-28 in Madison, expanding from annual events in Washington, D.C., and New York City to regional events.

“Our mission is to inspire and mentor military veterans to start their own high-growth companies,” Wisconsin PBC Director Michael Ertmer said. “We are excited to bring Techstars’ proven, successful, national program to Wisconsin and show case our state and its rapidly growing entrepreneurial community.”

According to a release, the Wisconsin Patriot Boot Camp will be the first program organized and led by PBC alumni. The free program is open to veterans, active service members, their spouses and their direct family members.

The first day is devoted to education, the second day focuses on mentoring and the final day features a pitch competition. Past graduates have moved on to startup accelerators, including Techstars, and secured investments, Ertmer said.

Applications, accepted on a rolling admissions basis, are due by Sept. 5. Approximately 50-75 applicants will be selected.