Starting a business can be a challenging and risky venture, and Veterans often bring unique skills and experiences to the process that can help them succeed.
Some of the skills that Veterans bring to entrepreneurship include leadership, discipline, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability. These skills, along with the experience of serving in the military, can help Veterans navigate the challenges of starting and running a business.
There are a number of resources available to help Veteran entrepreneurs succeed, including government-backed initiatives, business incubators and accelerators, and mentorship programs. Many Veteran-owned businesses also receive support from the Veteran community, as well as from organizations that prioritize supporting Veteran-owned businesses.
There are several resources available for Veteran entrepreneurs:
- UTA VBOC – UTAVBOC provides collaborative, hands-on, interactive learning opportunities including classroom instruction and opportunities to work with experienced coaches and mentors, attend workshops, and develop connections.
- MedTechVets – MedTechVets is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving Veterans during career transition and beyond. Their vision is to build a bridge to help Veterans find meaningful employment in the Medical Technology Industry.
- Texas Workforce Commission for Veterans – The Texas Veterans Commission has resources available for those with a service-connected disability that limits the ability to work or prevents you from working.
- The Arlington Chamber Veteran’s Business Council – The Veterans Business Council (VBC) was established to empower and connect Greater Arlington Chamber Veteran business owners and workforce to relevant community-wide relationships through leadership, professional development, collaboration and engagement.
- The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has a Office of Veterans Business Development that provides resources and assistance to Veteran entrepreneurs, including funding, training, and networking opportunities.
- The National Veterans Business Development Council (NVBDC) is a non-profit organization that provides education, training, and support to Veteran-owned businesses.
- The Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) at Syracuse University offers a variety of resources for Veteran entrepreneurs, including a Veterans Startup Academy, which provides training and support for Veteran entrepreneurs.
- The Veterans Corporation is a non-profit organization that provides resources and assistance to Veteran-owned businesses, including funding, training, and networking opportunities.
- The National Veteran-Owned Business Association (NaVOBA) is a non-profit organization that works to promote the growth and success of Veteran-owned businesses.
- The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a variety of resources for Veteran entrepreneurs, including training, technical assistance, and access to capital.
- SCORE is a non-profit organization that provides mentorship and business resources to entrepreneurs, including Veterans. SCORE has a network of volunteer business mentors who are available to provide guidance and support to Veteran entrepreneurs.
In addition to these resources, there are also many local organizations and initiatives that support Veteran entrepreneurs. It may be helpful to reach out to your local Chamber of Commerce or Small Business Development Center for more information on resources available in your area.
