Veterans have a unique set of skills and experiences that make them well-suited for entrepreneurship. After serving in the military, veterans often have leadership experience, a strong work ethic, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. These skills, combined with the support of the Small Business Administration (SBA) and other resources, can make veterans highly successful entrepreneurs.

Entrepreneurship allows veterans to apply their skills and experiences in new and innovative ways, while also making a positive impact on the community. As entrepreneurs, veterans can create jobs and economic growth in their local communities, and they can also use their businesses to support other veterans and give back to their communities.

One way veterans can use their skills as entrepreneurs is by starting their own businesses. Many veterans possess skills in areas such as logistics, management, and security that are highly valued in the private sector. Additionally, the SBA offers a variety of resources to veterans looking to start their own businesses, including counseling, training, and access to funding through programs like the Veterans Advantage and Patriot Express.

Another way veterans can use their skills as entrepreneurs is by becoming franchisees. Franchising offers veterans the opportunity to run their own business, while also benefiting from the established systems, training, and support of a larger organization. The International Franchise Association (IFA) has a VetFran program that helps veterans find franchise opportunities and receive discounts on franchise fees.

Veterans can also use their skills to support their communities in other ways, for example by becoming social entrepreneurs. Social entrepreneurship is a way for veterans to use their leadership skills, entrepreneurial mindset and expertise to help solve social and environmental problems. A social entrepreneur is an individual who identifies a social problem and uses a business model to create a solution that addresses that problem. Social entrepreneurship can be anything from creating sustainable business models to create jobs, helping people in need, or promoting eco-friendly products and services.

One example of a successful social entrepreneurship venture led by a veteran is “Hire Heroes USA”. A nonprofit organization that empowers U.S. military members, veterans, and their spouses to succeed in the civilian workforce. The organization provides job training, career coaching, and other resources to veterans and their families, helping to bridge the gap between military service and civilian employment.

In conclusion, veterans have a unique set of skills and experiences that make them well-suited for entrepreneurship. Whether starting a business, becoming a franchisee or a social entrepreneur, veterans have the potential to make a positive impact on their communities. With the support of programs like the SBA and VetFran, veterans have access to the resources they need to succeed as entrepreneurs and create economic growth and positive change in their communities.

About the author:

Enlisting in the United States Navy in 2012, James served two tours of duty for Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) as an Anti-terrorism Specialist. He continued his career as a civilian contractor, working as a Weapons Based Instructor for operational private security forces.

In 2020, James Founded SwoleConnect, a personal development firm and athletic brand. Clients are introduced to his philosophies METRECON and Potent Masculinity as pillars of their personal wellness. His work has since been featured on NBC, CBS, FOX, and USA Today.Two years later his company acquired Total Warrior Combat, a premiere American Mixed-Martial Arts promotion. He was named President of the league, and embarked on the long journey of market expansion while being the first professional sports organization to provide mental health solutions for athletes as the backbone of their strategic vision.

In addition to his duties as President of Total Warrior Combat, James serves the Houston, Texas community as the Executive Director of the VEL Institute ( Veterans, Entrepreneurs, and Leaders) – a nonprofit dedicated to the personal and professional development of Veterans and Entrepreneurs.