Programs
VEDM builds veteran community through electronic music. Our programs are organized in two categories: programs currently running and programs in development. Donors can support either. See our Donate page for funding tracks tied to each.
Currently running
VEDM Cohort
Active: Cohort 01 launching Spring 2027
A structured cohort program for veterans new to electronic music production, in collaboration with Encanti Music Academy.
6–8 veterans take Ben "Encanti" Cantil's Freshman course together: a one-month program of four weekly live sessions covering composition, sound design, track development, and mixing, with peer connection, a guest instructor session, and an alumni community wrapped around the curriculum.
Who it's for: US veterans (DD-214). Any era, any branch, any discharge status other than dishonorable.
What it costs participants: Free. Course access is donated by Encanti Music Academy. VEDM also provides software and gear support based on need and available funding.
What’s included: Course access via Encanti Music Academy (including class recordings and the Academy Discord community), weekly peer cohort calls, a guest instructor session, and alumni community access. Participants may also receive a DAW subscription and entry-level production gear (such as a MIDI controller and headphones), based on need and available funding.
Format: Online. Encanti’s weekly live classes (taught in Ableton Live), plus VEDM peer cohort calls on Zoom and the Encanti Music Academy Discord.
Status: Cohort 01 is planned alongside Encanti Music Academy’s Spring 2027 Freshman class (dates to be announced). Fill out the onboarding survey to join the interest list.
In development
VEDM Crews
In development: launching 2026
A group event-attendance program for veterans. Small Crews of 6–12 veterans attend electronic music festivals or shows together with a structured pre-event call, an in-event buddy framework, and a post-event decompression call. Designed to turn solo veteran event-going into a high-bonding shared experience among peers.
Who it will serve: US veterans (DD-214), with the same eligibility as Cohort.
Status: In development. VEDM Crews requires insurance, an operational framework, and partnerships that we're building toward in 2026. Currently funded by donors through our "Build VEDM's next programs" track.
Anticipated launch: 2026.
Beyond Cohort and Crews, VEDM is exploring future programs including local recurring community gatherings in Atlanta and a deeper alumni program for veteran producers. These remain in early planning.