Veterans possess the attributes that make excellent entrepreneurs: discipline, strategic planning, and a knack for leadership. As the cornerstone of national defense, they can also be the backbone of economic growth. For veterans looking to channel their skills and experience into starting a business, there are a wide array of resources available to provide targeted support and guidance.

Getting Your Business Off the Ground

Earning an Online Business Degree

Knowledge is power, and pursuing a bachelor of business degree to further your career can be a transformative step. This academic credential offers a comprehensive foundation in business theory and practices, meshing seamlessly with the hands-on experience they've acquired in service. With the advent of online programs, veteran entrepreneurs now have the flexibility to juggle their business operations alongside their educational commitments, paving a smoother path to success. Plus, if you’re eligible for VA education benefits, you can keep costs minimal.

Register as a Veteran-Owned Business

Registering your venture as veteran-owned brings key benefits, such as tax perks and access to special funding. Any business that a veteran owns at least 51 percent of qualifies for this special status. You also get priority if you bid government jobs. The only proof you need to qualify for this status is a copy of your DD214. 

Protect Data and Documents

If your company collects sensitive information, like account numbers, medical data, or personal identification information, you’re required by law to do so in a responsible manner. It’s vital that you protect such information, like with a PDF tool that lets you quickly generate a document online that you can easily password protect. PDFs are an excellent way to save invoices, contracts, and other documents safely since they can be encrypted, and they’re easy to share with business partners and clients thanks to their universally-accepted format. 

You should similarly enact cybersecurity protocols. Firewalls, password protection, and antivirus software are just a few of the measures available to small businesses. Train any staff on proper information handling as well. 

Craft an Impactful Business Logo

In the world of entrepreneurship, first impressions are crucial, and a well-designed business logo can be your foot in the door. A logo not only sets the tone for your brand but also enhances recognition and represents the brand's industry, giving you a competitive edge. 

For those looking to avoid the high costs of professional design services, online logo makers offer a practical solution, allowing entrepreneurs to craft an appealing and creative text logo by simply choosing a style and icon, adding any necessary text, and selecting from a range of editable logos to finalize their unique brand identity.

Build a Business Website and Learning Coding Skills

In today’s digital age, an online presence is indispensable. Veterans can use online resources to learn coding skills, enabling them to build and manage their websites effectively. This cuts down on operational costs and also provides a hands-on approach to website maintenance.

Finding Support

Small Business Administration (SBA)

The SBA offers specialized programs for veterans, including business counseling, access to capital, and government contracting opportunities. Their Boots to Business program provides in-depth entrepreneurial education, empowering veterans to convert their skills into successful businesses. Tailored to veterans, this program has been instrumental in helping thousands launch their ventures.

Office of Veterans Business Development (OVBD)

OVBD focuses on enabling veterans to gain economic advantage through entrepreneurship. They offer training programs, mentorship, and access to capital. Their Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOCs) provide localized support in the form of business training and counseling. Collaboration with other federal agencies ensures that veteran entrepreneurs are well-informed and connected.

National Veteran-Owned Business Association (NaVOBA)

NaVOBA aims to generate corporate contracting opportunities for veteran-owned businesses. Their Veteran’s Advantage program and "Buy Veteran" certification enable businesses to distinguish themselves in the marketplace. NaVOBA works closely with corporations and government agencies to create a supportive ecosystem for veteran entrepreneurs.

Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF)

IVMF offers comprehensive programs that cover entrepreneurship education, training, and resource networking for veterans and their families. IVMF acts as a bridge between veterans and the myriad resources available to them, making it easier for veteran entrepreneurs to find the support they need.

Veterans Entrepreneurship Program (VEP)

VEP focuses on practical training, mentorship, and networking opportunities. It fosters a hands-on learning experience where veterans can work on their business ideas under the guidance of experts. Through VEP, veterans can build a robust network that will be crucial in the growth of their enterprises.

Veterans have the necessary skill sets to thrive in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Take advantage of veteran-owned business benefits, protect your data with PDFs, and lean into funding options available to you. With these resources, you can build a business that reflects the same dedication to excellence that you exhibited in service to your country.