Veterans transitioning into entrepreneurship bring a wealth of skills from their military experience. From leadership and discipline to strategic thinking and resilience, these qualities help them navigate the challenges of starting and scaling a business. This blog explores how veteran entrepreneurs can successfully transition from service to startup and thrive in the business world.
Why Veterans Make Great Entrepreneurs
Starting a business requires discipline, resilience, and strategic thinking—qualities that veterans develop during their military service. Many veteran entrepreneurs successfully transition from service to startup, using their leadership skills and problem-solving abilities to build thriving businesses. But what exactly makes veterans excel in entrepreneurship?
Strong Leadership Skills
Veterans are trained to lead teams, make critical decisions under pressure, and adapt to changing environments. These leadership qualities help them manage businesses effectively, inspiring teams and driving results.
Resilience and Determination
Entrepreneurship is full of challenges, and veterans are no strangers to adversity. Their ability to stay focused and push forward, even in difficult situations, gives them an edge in the competitive business world.
Strategic and Mission-Driven Mindset
Veterans are skilled at setting clear goals and developing strategies to achieve them. Their mission-oriented mindset ensures they stay committed to their business vision, helping them navigate obstacles with a results-driven approach.
Experience in Risk Management
Military service teaches veterans to assess risks, make informed decisions, and act with confidence. This skill translates well into entrepreneurship, where taking calculated risks is essential for growth and success.
Strong Work Ethic and Discipline
Running a business requires dedication and consistency—qualities that veterans have ingrained in their daily routines. Their structured approach to work helps them stay organized and productive, leading to long-term success.
This blog is a part of our Job Seeker page.
Challenges Faced by Veteran Entrepreneurs
Transitioning from military service to entrepreneurship presents unique opportunities, but it also comes with challenges. While veteran entrepreneurs bring strong leadership, discipline, and problem-solving skills to the business world, they often face obstacles that can make the journey more difficult. Understanding these challenges can help veterans navigate their entrepreneurial path with better preparation and confidence.
Access to Funding
One of the biggest hurdles veteran entrepreneurs face is securing financial support for their business. Many veterans may lack credit history or collateral, making it harder to obtain business loans. While there are veteran-focused grants and loan programs, navigating the application process can be complex and time-consuming.
Limited Business Experience
Although veterans are highly skilled in leadership and strategic planning, many lack direct experience in running a business. Tasks like financial management, marketing, and business operations can feel overwhelming, requiring additional learning and mentorship.
Building a Professional Network
The military provides a close-knit community, but transitioning to civilian business networks can be challenging. Veteran entrepreneurs often struggle to build professional connections, which are essential for finding customers, investors, and mentors.
Adapting to Civilian Business Culture
The structured environment of the military is very different from the flexibility and uncertainty of entrepreneurship. Veterans may find it difficult to adjust to the fast-paced, unpredictable nature of the business world, where decision-making often lacks the clear hierarchy they were accustomed to.
Marketing and Branding Challenges
Understanding consumer behavior and effective marketing strategies can be a challenge for veteran entrepreneurs, especially those unfamiliar with digital marketing, branding, or customer engagement. Without the right guidance, they may struggle to position their business competitively in the market.
Balancing Personal and Professional Life
Many veterans face challenges in balancing their business responsibilities with personal and family life. The commitment and intensity they bring to their businesses can sometimes lead to burnout or difficulty in maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Resources for Veteran Entrepreneurs
Starting and growing a business can be challenging, but veteran entrepreneurs have access to a variety of resources designed to support their success. From funding opportunities to mentorship programs, these resources help veterans transition from military service to business ownership. Here are some of the best resources available to help veteran entrepreneurs thrive.
Small Business Administration (SBA) Programs
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers several programs tailored for veteran entrepreneurs, including:
Boots to Business (B2B) – A free entrepreneurship training program for transitioning service members and veterans.
Veteran Business Outreach Centers (VBOCs) – Provides business training, counseling, and mentorship.
SBA Veterans Advantage Loan Program – Offers reduced fees on loans for veteran-owned businesses.
Veteran-Owned Business Certification
Becoming a certified veteran-owned business can open doors to government contracts and corporate supplier diversity programs. The following certifications help veterans gain a competitive edge:
Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification through the SBA.
Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) certification for accessing federal contracting opportunities.
Funding and Grants for Veteran Entrepreneurs
Access to capital is a common challenge for veterans starting a business. Fortunately, several financial programs exist to support veteran-owned businesses, including:
Hivers and Strivers – An angel investment group that funds veteran-owned startups.
StreetShares Foundation Grants – Provides funding and mentorship for veteran entrepreneurs.
Warrior Rising – Offers financial assistance and business training for veterans.
Mentorship and Networking Opportunities
Building connections with experienced entrepreneurs and business leaders is crucial for success. These organizations offer mentorship and networking opportunities for veteran entrepreneurs:
SCORE for Veterans – Provides free mentorship from experienced business professionals.
Bunker Labs – A nationwide program that supports veterans and military spouses in launching and growing businesses.
American Corporate Partners (ACP) – Connects veterans with corporate leaders for career and business guidance.
Educational Resources and Business Training
Veterans looking to strengthen their business knowledge can take advantage of various educational programs, such as:
Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) at Syracuse University – Offers business training and support through programs like the EBV (Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans).
Patriot Boot Camp – A nonprofit program that provides business training and mentorship to veteran entrepreneurs.
VetFran – Helps veterans start franchise businesses by offering training and financial incentives.
Steps to Launch a Startup as a Veteran Entrepreneur
Starting a business as a veteran entrepreneur requires careful planning and strategic execution. Veterans must leverage their military-acquired skills while adapting to the civilian business landscape. Here are essential steps to guide them through the startup journey:
Identify Your Niche – Choose an industry that aligns with your skills and interests. Assess market demand and evaluate competition before finalizing your business idea.
Develop a Business Plan – Outline your mission, goals, target audience, and financial projections. A well-structured plan increases your chances of securing funding and sets a clear path for success.
Secure Funding – Explore loans, grants, and investment opportunities specifically designed for veterans. Government programs and private investors can help with initial capital.
Leverage Military Networks – Connect with fellow veterans, mentorship programs, and business communities to gain guidance and support. Networking can open doors to partnerships and funding opportunities.
Build a Strong Online Presence – Invest in a professional website and digital marketing strategies to establish credibility and attract customers. Utilize social media and SEO techniques to enhance visibility.
Successful veteran entrepreneurs who built thriving businesses
Phil Knight – Co-Founder of Nike (U.S. Army)
Fred Smith – Founder of FedEx (U.S. Marine Corps)
Dawn Halfaker – Founder of Halfaker & Associates (U.S. Army)
Mat Best – Co-Founder of Black Rifle Coffee Company (U.S. Army Ranger)
Rocky Bleier – Founder of Rocky Bleier Enterprises (U.S. Army, Vietnam War Veteran)
Robert McDonald – Former CEO of Procter & Gamble (U.S. Army)
Daniel Alarik – Founder of Grunt Style (U.S. Army)
Evan Hafer – Founder of Black Rifle Coffee Company (U.S. Army Special Forces)
Mike Haney – Co-Founder of Bunker Labs (U.S. Marine Corps)
Carl Karcher – Founder of Carl’s Jr. (U.S. Army)
Final Thoughts
Veteran entrepreneurs possess invaluable skills that make them outstanding business owners. By utilizing available resources, overcoming challenges, and applying their military expertise to business, they can build successful startups and contribute significantly to the economy.
