Dream Vacations Unveils 15th Annual Contest for US Vets

Claudette Covey
by Claudette Covey
Last updated: 10:25 AM ET, Thu July 2, 2026
Dream Vacations Unveils 15th Annual Contest for U.S. Vets

Shane Gray, a former “Operation Vetrepreneur” contest winner, who, along with Jessica Gray, owns a Dreams Vacations franchise (Photo Credit: Dream Vacations)

As the U.S. gears up for 250th anniversary celebrations, Dream Vacations is unveiling its 15th “Operation Vetrepreneur: Become Your Own General” contest, which will award three military veterans with agency franchises.

To participate, candidates must complete an online entry form and schedule a phone call with a franchise development manager. “Candidates will also submit a profile, business plan and video,” Dream Vacations said.

The contest is open to all branches of the military.

Winners will receive tickets to Dream Vacations’ training and networking event, Land Summit 2027, plus a slate of training and marketing tools and ongoing support to aid them in developing their home-based franchise businesses.

“I encourage any veteran who has thought about starting their own business to apply,” said Shane Gray, a former “Operation Vetrepreneur” winner and a Dream Vacations franchise owner. “Winning gave me the opportunity to build a flexible business while doing something I love.

“You’re in business for yourself, but not by yourself,” he added. “The training, tools and support system really set you up to succeed, and it truly changed my life.”

Dream Vacations also offers military veterans and Gold Star families the chance to acquire a Dream Vacations travel agency franchise at a 30 percent discount along with an “enlistment package valued at no less than $5,000 and have administrative fees waived, valued at $1,800,” the company said.

“This summer is especially meaningful as Americans take advantage of the 250th anniversary to explore historic destinations across the country,” said Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager of Dream Vacations.


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