The InnoVets Graduate School Scholarship was created with a simple but powerful belief: education changes lives. It shapes careers, strengthens families, opens doors, and equips people to bring meaningful change to the communities they serve. For many Veterans and members of the military community, however, returning to school—especially graduate school—can feel financially out of reach. InnoVets is committed to changing that.
Why This Scholarship Matters
The program was founded by two Veterans who have lived this journey themselves.
Executive Director Dan Magoon, a U.S. Army Veteran and founder of Massachusetts Fallen Heroes, and Program Director Michael Aldred, a Navy Veteran and longtime advocate for Veteran workforce development, each used the Post-9/11 GI Bill after separating from service. They understand firsthand how transformative education can be—but they also recognize the limitations Veterans face today.
While the GI Bill is an incredible resource, educational costs have risen sharply, and bachelor’s degrees no longer provide the same level of career mobility or earning potential they once did. Many Veterans across Massachusetts find themselves balancing work, family responsibilities, and rising expenses while trying to pursue the advanced education needed to compete in today’s job market.
Seeing these challenges, Dan and Mike decided to take direct action.
Their solution is the InnoVets Graduate School Scholarship, designed to open the door to new career pathways, leadership opportunities, and long-term financial stability.
About InnoVets
InnoVets is Massachusetts’ premier Veteran entrepreneurship, workforce development, and innovation program. With a mission to Honor, Empower, and Support the military and Veteran communities, InnoVets provides a full suite of services including:
- Mentorship and professional development
- Business incubator programming for Veteran entrepreneurs
- Networking and partnership opportunities with industry leaders
- Workforce placement support across tech, healthcare, manufacturing, cybersecurity, and more
- Access to ongoing educational programs, resources, and events
Through this scholarship, InnoVets is expanding its impact beyond entrepreneurship—helping Veterans strengthen their long-term career trajectory through advanced education.
What the Scholarship Covers
Graduate school can bring a wide range of financial pressures. To ensure recipients can focus on academic success rather than day-to-day survival, the InnoVets Graduate School Scholarship is intentionally flexible. Recipients may use the award to help cover:
- Tuition or program fees
- Childcare
- Transportation
- Books and academic materials
- Housing or living expenses
- Any cost that reduces financial strain and increases the student’s ability to learn
By alleviating these burdens, InnoVets aims to give recipients the freedom to fully engage with their program, pursue excellence in their studies, and demonstrate the leadership and resilience that Veterans bring into classrooms and communities.
Why Graduate Education Matters for Veterans
The data is clear. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Workers with a graduate degree earn approximately 20% more than those with only a bachelor’s degree.
- They experience lower unemployment rates and greater career stability.
- Advanced degrees often open pathways to leadership positions, specialized professions, and higher lifetime earning potential.
Beyond the numbers, pursuing a graduate degree provides Veterans with:
- A renewed sense of purpose
- Increased confidence and skill development
- Connection to a wider professional network
- Improved long-term well-being and health outcomes
Education is not just a credential—it is an investment in oneself, one’s family, and one’s future.
Meet the Leaders Behind the Program
Dan Magoon: A U.S. Army Veteran, Dan is widely respected for his work supporting Gold Star Families and the broader military community. As the founder of Massachusetts Fallen Heroes and a passionate advocate for Veteran empowerment, he brings unmatched commitment and leadership to the InnoVets mission.
Learn more about Dan: https://www.massfallenheroes.org/profile/dan-magoon/
Michael Aldred: A Marine Corps Veteran with deep experience in workforce development and Veteran advocacy, Michael is dedicated to helping service members build successful civilian careers. Known for his mentorship, strategic insight, and personal commitment to the community, Michael leads the scholarship program with compassion and clarity.
Learn more about Michael: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-aldred-a72731174/
Apply Today
If you are a Veteran, service member, or military-connected individual in Massachusetts who dreams of advancing your education, this scholarship was created for you.
Whether you're pursuing an MBA, MSW, MPH, MPA, MS in Cybersecurity, a graduate certificate, or any advanced degree that aligns with your personal and professional goals, InnoVets is here to support your journey.
Applications, eligibility details, and additional program information can be found here:
https://www.innovets.org/innovets-graduate-school-scholarship
Join Us in Building What’s Next
Your service does not end when the uniform comes off—it evolves. Through education, you can expand your impact, strengthen your community, and build a future that honors your skills, ambition, and continued dedication.
InnoVets is proud to stand alongside you every step of the way.