Many veterans possess the discipline, leadership, and problem-solving skills that make them well-suited for entrepreneurship. Starting a business can be a rewarding way for veterans to apply these skills in civilian life, create financial independence, and contribute to their communities. This blog, brought to you by Warrior Allegiance, explores the resources available to veteran entrepreneurs and shares inspiring success stories to motivate and guide those considering this path.

Why Veterans Make Great Entrepreneurs

1. Discipline and Work Ethic: Military service instills a strong sense of discipline and work ethic, which are crucial for the demanding nature of entrepreneurship.
2. Leadership Skills: Veterans often have extensive leadership experience, enabling them to manage teams, make strategic decisions, and lead their businesses effectively.
3. Problem-Solving Abilities: The ability to think on their feet and solve complex problems is a key trait of veterans, making them adept at navigating the challenges of starting and running a business.
4. Resilience and Adaptability: Military training teaches resilience and adaptability, helping veterans to persevere through setbacks and adapt to changing market conditions.

Resources for Veteran Entrepreneurs

There are numerous resources available to help veterans start and grow their businesses. These include government programs, non-profit organizations, and private sector initiatives specifically designed to support veteran entrepreneurs.

1. Small Business Administration (SBA) Office of Veterans Business Development:

Overview: The SBA offers a range of programs and services tailored to veteran entrepreneurs, including training, counseling, and access to capital.

Programs:

• Boots to Business: A training program that provides an overview of business ownership and the necessary steps for starting a business.
• Veteran Business Outreach Centers (VBOC): Centers that offer business training, counseling, and mentoring services to veterans.
• Patriot Express Loan Program: A loan program that provides financing for veteran-owned businesses.

2. SCORE Veterans Fast Launch Initiative:

Overview: SCORE, a non-profit organization affiliated with the SBA, provides free mentoring and training to veteran entrepreneurs through its Veterans Fast Launch Initiative.

Services:

• Mentoring: One-on-one mentoring from experienced business professionals.
• Workshops: Free or discounted workshops and webinars on various business topics.
• Resources: Access to templates, tools, and guides to help veterans start and grow their businesses.

3. Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) at Syracuse University:

Overview: IVMF offers comprehensive training and support programs for veteran entrepreneurs, focusing on business planning, operations, and growth.

Programs:

• Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans (EBV): An intensive training program that provides veterans with the skills and resources needed to start and manage a business.
• Veteran Women Igniting the Spirit of Entrepreneurship (V-WISE): A program designed to empower female veterans and military spouses to launch and grow successful businesses.

4. Bunker Labs:

Overview: Bunker Labs is a national network of veteran entrepreneurs dedicated to helping veterans start and grow businesses.

Programs:

• Launch Lab Online: An online course that guides veterans through the process of starting a business.
• Veterans in Residence: A six-month program that provides veteran entrepreneurs with workspace, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
• Bunker Connect: Events that bring together veteran entrepreneurs, business leaders, and investors to foster collaboration and support.

5. The Rosie Network:

Overview: The Rosie Network supports veteran and military spouse entrepreneurs through mentoring, networking, and training programs.

Programs:

• Service2CEO: A comprehensive training program that covers business planning, marketing, financial management, and growth strategies.
• Rosie Chapters: Local chapters that provide networking opportunities and peer support for veteran entrepreneurs.

Steps to Starting a Business as a Veteran

1. Assess Your Skills and Interests:

• Identify Strengths: Reflect on your skills, experiences, and passions to determine the type of business that aligns with your strengths.
• Conduct Market Research: Research the market demand for your business idea, including potential competitors and target customers.

2. Create a Business Plan:

• Executive Summary: Outline your business idea, goals, and strategies for achieving them.
• Market Analysis: Detail your market research findings, including target audience and competitive analysis.
• Financial Plan: Develop a budget, financial projections, and funding strategy.

3. Secure Funding:

• Personal Savings: Use personal savings to fund your business startup costs.
• Loans and Grants: Explore loan and grant options available to veteran entrepreneurs through programs like the SBA Patriot Express Loan Program.
• Investors: Seek investment from angel investors, venture capitalists, or crowdfunding platforms.

4. Register Your Business:

• Choose a Business Structure: Decide on the legal structure of your business (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation).
• Register Your Business: Register your business with the appropriate state and federal authorities, and obtain any necessary licenses and permits.

5. Build Your Brand:

• Create a Brand Identity: Develop a logo, brand colors, and messaging that reflect your business values and appeal to your target audience.
• Build a Website: Establish an online presence with a professional website that showcases your products or services.
• Social Media: Utilize social media platforms to promote your business and engage with customers.

6. Launch and Grow:

• Marketing Strategy: Implement a marketing strategy to attract and retain customers, including online advertising, content marketing, and networking.
• Monitor and Adjust: Continuously monitor your business performance and make adjustments as needed to stay on track with your goals.

Success Stories: Veteran Entrepreneurs Making an Impact

To inspire and motivate aspiring veteran entrepreneurs, here are a few success stories of veterans who have built successful businesses:

1. J. Dog Junk Removal & Hauling:

• Founder: Jerry Flanagan, an Army veteran, started J. Dog Junk Removal & Hauling to provide eco-friendly junk removal services.
• Success: The company has grown into a national franchise with locations across the United States, employing many veterans and military family members.

2. Black Rifle Coffee Company:

• Founder: Evan Hafer, a former Green Beret, started Black Rifle Coffee Company to provide high-quality coffee to the military and veteran community.
• Success: The company has gained a loyal following and expanded its product line, becoming a well-known brand in the coffee industry.

3. R. Riveter:

• Founders: Lisa Bradley and Cameron Cruse, military spouses, started R. Riveter to provide flexible employment opportunities for military spouses by making handbags from recycled military materials.
• Success: The company has grown significantly, with products sold nationwide and a feature on the TV show “Shark Tank.”

4. Bottle Breacher:

• Founder: Eli Crane, a former Navy SEAL, started Bottle Breacher to create unique bottle openers made from recycled .50 caliber bullets.
• Success: The company has expanded its product line and gained widespread recognition, also appearing on “Shark Tank.”

Conclusion

Veteran entrepreneurship offers a path to financial independence, personal fulfillment, and community impact. By leveraging available resources and support programs, veterans can successfully navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business. Warrior Allegiance is committed to helping veteran entrepreneurs achieve their goals by providing guidance, resources, and support.