VETERAN SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCES
From startup funding to federal contracts, veterans have access to powerful business programs. The SBA and VA offer loans, training, mentoring, and contracting set-asides exclusively for veteran entrepreneurs.
Visit SBA Veteran Business Portal →PROGRAMS & RESOURCES
Loans, training, certification, and contracting opportunities for veteran business owners
SBA Veteran Business Loans
The Small Business Administration offers several loan programs with favorable terms for veteran-owned businesses, including reduced fees and competitive interest rates.
Learn More →Key Details
- ✓SBA 7(a) loans up to $5 million for veteran businesses
- ✓SBA Express loans up to $500,000 with faster processing
- ✓Community Advantage loans for underserved communities
- ✓SBA Microloans up to $50,000 for startup costs
- ✓Fee relief programs for veteran borrowers
Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) Certification
The SBA certifies Veteran-Owned Small Businesses and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses, opening access to sole-source and set-aside federal contracts.
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- ✓VOSB certification for veteran-owned businesses
- ✓SDVOSB certification for service-disabled veteran owners
- ✓Access to federal contracting set-asides ($30B+ annually)
- ✓Sole-source contracts up to $5 million
- ✓SBA Veteran Small Business Certification program (VetCert)
Boots to Business (B2B)
A free entrepreneurship training program offered by the SBA as part of the DoD Transition Assistance Program. Teaches business fundamentals to transitioning service members.
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- ✓Free 2-day introductory course during TAP
- ✓Boots to Business Reboot for veterans who already separated
- ✓8-week online course for deeper learning
- ✓Business plan development assistance
- ✓Mentoring and networking opportunities
Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOC)
The SBA funds 28 Veterans Business Outreach Centers across the country that provide free business development services including training, counseling, and mentoring.
Learn More →Key Details
- ✓28 centers across the United States
- ✓Free one-on-one business counseling
- ✓Business plan development workshops
- ✓Feasibility analysis for new ventures
- ✓Ongoing mentoring and technical assistance
SCORE Mentorship
SCORE is an SBA resource partner that provides free mentoring from experienced business professionals. They have dedicated veteran mentorship programs nationwide.
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- ✓Free one-on-one mentoring from experienced professionals
- ✓Free business workshops and webinars
- ✓Online courses and resource library
- ✓300+ chapters across the country
- ✓Veteran-specific mentoring programs
Federal Contracting Opportunities
The federal government sets aside billions in contracts specifically for veteran-owned businesses. The VA also has set-aside programs specifically for SDVOSB firms.
Learn More →Key Details
- ✓3% federal contracting goal for SDVOSBs
- ✓VA set-aside contracts for Veterans First program
- ✓GSA Schedule for veteran-owned businesses
- ✓Subcontracting opportunities with large prime contractors
- ✓SAM.gov registration for government contracting
EXPLORE MORE VETERAN RESOURCES
Small business support is just one of many resources available to veterans.