There is a host of programs and initiatives to help veterans become business owners. Here is a sampling:
1. Operation Boots to Business: From Service to Startup: This program, run by the SBA, introduces transitioning service members to the fundamentals of entrepreneurship and walks them through the SBA tools and resources. For more information, visit boots2business.org.
2. VetFran: This initiative by the International Franchising Association helps veterans returning from service purchase popular franchises like Little Caesar’s Pizza and Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt. Visit www.VetFran.com.
3. University of Central Florida (UCF) Veteran’s Initiative: To find out more, visit innovator.research.ucf.edu/Online/Spring2013/veteran.html or call 407-882-0888.
4. The Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Concern Procurement Program: If you’re interested in starting a business that sells products or services to the government, this program can help. It allows the government to federal agencies to set aside contracts where service-disabled veteran-owned small business concerns compete exclusively for prime contracts. For more information, visit www.sba.gov/vets.
5. Veterans Fast Launch Initiative. This program offered by SCORE offers training scholarships so that veterans can attend SCORE workshops and classes for free. For more information on the Veterans Fast Launch Initiative, visit www.score.org/vetsfastlaunch
Read the full Miami Herald story on veterans programs for entrepreneurship here.