Veteran entrepreneurship
Veteran Entrepreneurship
Free programs and opportunities for veterans, service members and military spouses who want to start or grow a business.
Not financial or legal advice. This page is general education. Programs and rules change, so check the official sources linked below.
Start with what you've earned
The skills you built in service can carry straight into running a business, and the SBA has programs made just for you. Most of the training and counseling below is free. We'd start with Boots to Business or your nearest Veterans Business Outreach Center.
SBA programs for veterans and military families
Boots to Business
An entrepreneurial education and training program offered by the SBA as part of the Department of Defense's Transition Assistance Program (TAP). It gives an overview of business ownership, is open to service members (including National Guard and Reserve) and military spouses, and is free at participating installations.
Boots to Business Reboot
No access to a military installation? Veterans Business Outreach Centers help run B2B Reboot classes off installations for veterans of all eras, National Guard and Reserve members, and military spouses.
Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOCs)
VBOCs offer workshops, training, counseling and mentorship to service members, veterans, National Guard and Reserve members, military spouses and family members who want to start or grow a small business. They can also help with a business plan and refer you to other SBA partners and lenders.
Office of Veterans Business Development
The SBA office that oversees its veteran entrepreneurship programs. A good starting point to see everything the SBA offers veterans and military families.
Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert)
Certified veteran-owned (VOSB) and service-disabled veteran-owned (SDVOSB) small businesses can pursue sole-source and set-aside federal contracts. Certified SDVOSBs can compete for them across the federal government.
Veteran contracting and resources hub
The SBA's overview of veteran certifications, Veterans Business Development Officers who help you find programs and training, and resources for military spouse business owners.
More from the SBA: Veteran-owned businesses guide (opens in a new tab)
Ready for more ways to earn?
Our general Entrepreneurship and Make Money page covers side business basics, tools to build a website or sell online, and our partner picks. For benefits and bill help, see Veterans & Military, and for setting up your business, our Business Starter Kit.
Thank you for your service. We're rooting for you. The ForLowerBills team
General information only, not legal, medical, tax or financial advice.
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