By Gary Marabella
Brian Vinciguerra, writer for Linkedin, mentions separation from the military is “a journey that can be daunting, filled with uncertainty and countless questions.” This is especially true for veteran entrepreneurs. But you don't need experience; all it takes is an idea! Choose something that interests you and hone in on your skills. Think about the market demand.
Veterans Make Great Entrepreneurs
Veterans bring a distinctive set of skills that are essential for successful entrepreneurship. These include leadership, perseverance, and critical thinking.
Starting a veteran-owned business with zero experience may seem daunting, but with the right mindset, resources, and strategies, it’s entirely achievable. — Cornerstone Synergies Incorporated
Vinciguerra also mentions that veterans thrive in diverse industries because they possess inherent perseverance and adaptability. Veterans should view their military experience as a valuable asset, leveraging their leadership and problem-solving skills to successfully navigate the business world (Matthews 2023).
In her article, Veteran Entrepreneurship: What You Should Know, author Rosalina Murray says that veteran entrepreneurs:
- are more likely to own a business than nonveterans;
- often earn higher incomes than nonveteran entrepreneurs; and
- represent diverse backgrounds in age, race/ethnicity, disability status, and life experiences.
The entrepreneurial journey includes many challenges and opportunities, but with perseverance and a proactive mindset, success is attainable. — Jason Matthews
Find a Path
So, how do you get started? There are many skills veterans already bring to the game, but is there a set of rules? While there is not a direct set of rules to follow, there are some useful steps that can outline your journey. Cornerstone Synergies Incorporated lays out the following eight strategies.
#1 Identify your Business Idea
What are your interests and skills? What does market demand look like? Assess your abilities and consider how your military experience can translate into a successful business.
#2 Create a Business Plan
This serves as your roadmap to success where you will outline your goals, strategies, and financial projections. No prior experience is required. Create your business plan by following these steps:
- Executive Summary: summarize your business concept, mission, and vision
- Market Analysis: who is your target audience? Research your competitors and industry trends
- Products or Services: what will you offer and how can it solve a problem
- Marketing Strategy: think of you’ll attract customers (social medial, advertising)
- Financial Plan: estimate costs, revenue projections, and funding
#3 Make the Most of Veteran Support Resources
Veterans have access to a wide range of resources to help them succeed in entrepreneurship. These programs provide training, mentorship, and funding opportunities:
- SBA’s Boots to Business: A free program offering entrepreneurial education for transitioning service members and veterans. Learn more at SBA Boots to Business.
- Veteran Business Outreach Centers (VBOCs): VBOCs provide counseling, training, and business development support. Locate a center near you through the SBA.
- Veterans Business Fund: This nonprofit offers grants to veteran entrepreneurs. Check their website for eligibility requirements.
#4 Fund Your Business for Success
Starting a business requires capital, but veterans have access to a variety of funding options. Consider these avenues:
- SBA Loans: The Small Business Administration offers veteran-friendly loans with favorable terms, such as the SBA Express Loan or 7(a) Loan. Check eligibility at SBA Funding Programs.
- Grants: Explore veteran-specific grants through resources like Grants.gov.
- Crowdfunding: Platforms such as Kickstarter or GoFundMe allow you to raise funds directly from supporters.
- Personal Savings or Family Support: Using personal funds or family contributions can help reduce reliance on debt.
#5 Get Certified as a Veteran-Owned Business
Certifying your business as veteran-owned can unlock opportunities for government contracts and corporate partnerships. Key certifications include:
- Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB): Managed by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), this certification gives access to federal contracts. Apply through VA OSDBU.
- Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB): Designed for veterans with service-related disabilities, this certification provides additional contracting opportunities.
- National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC): Connects certified veteran-owned businesses with corporate supply chains and partnership opportunities.
#6 Develop Your Brand and Promote Your Business
A strong brand helps your business stand out in a competitive market. Here’s how to build and promote your veteran-owned business:
- Create a Memorable Brand: Pick a business name and logo that reflect your values and resonate with your audience. Tools like Canva can simplify logo design.
- Develop a Website: A professional website is crucial. Affordable, user-friendly platforms like WordPress or Wix make it easy to get started.
- Leverage Social Media: Use LinkedIn, Instagram, and X to connect with customers and share your veteran-owned story.
- Highlight Your Veteran Status: Many consumers and businesses prefer supporting veteran-owned companies—make sure this is front and center in your marketing materials.
#7 Build Your Business Knowledge
Even without prior experience, you can quickly acquire essential business skills through online courses, workshops, and mentorship. Consider these resources:
- Coursera or Udemy: Affordable online courses covering business management, marketing, and finance.
- SCORE Mentorship: Connect with experienced business owners for free mentoring through SCORE.
- Local Community Colleges: Many offer beginner-friendly entrepreneurship programs designed for new business owners.
#8 Build Your Network and Foster Connection
Networking is essential for new entrepreneurs. Attend industry events, join veteran organizations, and engage with local business communities. Consider these tips:
- Join Veteran Organizations: Groups like the American Legion or VFW frequently host business-oriented events.
- Attend Trade Shows: Showcase your products or services and connect with potential partners and clients.
- Leverage LinkedIn: Create a professional profile and connect with other entrepreneurs, mentors, or prospective clients.
Veteran-owned businesses in the United States number nearly 2 million and provide employment to more than 5 million Americans. — Mission Roll Call
The Growth and Success of Veteran-Owned Businesses
It’s easy to see why veterans make such successful entrepreneurs. Military experience instills discipline, adaptability, and hands-on problem-solving skills—qualities that translate perfectly to running a business. Many veteran-owned companies also give back to the community by hiring fellow veterans, creating workplaces built on teamwork, shared values, and unique perspectives. Their leadership isn’t just effective—it’s transformative—benefiting employees, customers, and the business itself.
References
Army Hotels. (2017). From service to startup: Inspiring veteran-owned business success stories. IHG Army Hotels Blog.
Cornerstone Synergetics. (2025, May 23). How to start a veteran-owned business with zero experience. Cornerstone Synergetics Veteran Care Blog.
Dublino, J. (2022, July 7). Resources for veteran-owned businesses. U.S. Small Business Administration.
Matthews, J. (2023, November 10). Veteran entrepreneurship: Building successful veteran-led startups. U.S. Small Business Administration.
Maury, R. V. (2015). Veteran entrepreneurship: What you should know. Institute for Veterans and Military Families, Syracuse University.
Mission Roll Call. (2023, November 8). The success of veteran-owned businesses and ways to support them. Mission Roll Call.
Vinciguerra, B. (2023, November 10). Why military experience makes veterans great entrepreneurs. Forbes.