Your Support Network
4:00You're not alone in this mission. A robust ecosystem of programs, organizations, and resources exists specifically to support veteran entrepreneurs. From government programs to veteran networks, from funding opportunities to mentorship—the support is there. You just need to know where to find it.
This briefing will map the veteran entrepreneur resource landscape and show you how to leverage these resources for your business success.
The Veteran Entrepreneur Ecosystem
The support available to veteran entrepreneurs is extensive and growing. Government agencies, non-profits, and private organizations all recognize the potential of veteran business owners and have created programs to help you succeed.
Government Resources
- SBA Office of Veterans Business Development (OVBD): Training, counseling, and access to capital
- Boots to Business: SBA program offering entrepreneurship training for transitioning service members
- Veteran Business Outreach Centers (VBOCs): Free business consulting and training
- VA Vocational Rehabilitation: May support business start-up for qualifying veterans
- Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) program: Federal contracting advantages
Funding Opportunities
Multiple funding paths exist for veteran entrepreneurs:
- SBA Veterans Advantage Loans: Reduced fees on SBA loans
- StreetShares Foundation: Grants specifically for veteran entrepreneurs
- Hivers and Strivers: Angel investment network focused on veterans
- Warrior Rising: Provides mentorship and potential investment
- Various grant programs: Many organizations offer grants to veteran-owned businesses
Veteran Entrepreneur Networks
Connection with fellow veteran entrepreneurs provides mentorship, support, and opportunities:
- Bunker Labs: National network of veteran entrepreneurs with local chapters
- VetToCEO: Mentorship and training program
- The Rosie Network: Focus on military spouse and veteran entrepreneurs
- American Corporate Partners (ACP): Mentorship matching program
- Veterati: Free mentorship platform connecting veterans with professionals
Training and Education
- Boots to Business Reboot: Ongoing training after initial B2B program
- Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF): Syracuse University programs
- Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans (EBV): Intensive training program
- Dog Tag Bakery Fellowship: DC-based fellowship program
- Veterans Business Battle: Competition-based learning opportunity
I was hesitant to ask for help—old military pride, I guess. But when I finally connected with a VBOC and Bunker Labs, everything changed. The mentorship, the network, the resources—it accelerated my business by at least two years.— Amanda R., Marine Corps Veteran, Founder, TacticalFit Apparel
Summary
A comprehensive ecosystem of resources exists to support veteran entrepreneurs. Government programs provide training and access to capital, veteran networks offer mentorship and connection, and numerous organizations provide specialized support. The key is knowing these resources exist and being willing to use them.
Veteran Resource Categories
• SBA Office of Veterans Business Development
• Boots to Business program
• Veteran Business Outreach Centers
• VA Vocational Rehabilitation
• SDVOSB certification program
• SBA Veterans Advantage Loans
• StreetShares Foundation grants
• Hivers and Strivers angel network
• Warrior Rising investment
• Various grant programs
• Bunker Labs (local chapters)
• VetToCEO mentorship
• The Rosie Network
• American Corporate Partners
• Veterati mentorship platform
- Government resources include SBA programs, VBOCs, and contracting advantages
- Multiple funding paths exist specifically for veteran entrepreneurs
- Veteran entrepreneur networks provide mentorship and community
- Using available resources is smart strategy, not weakness