National Veterans Small Business Week (NVSBW) 2024 highlights the entrepreneurial spirit of veterans, service members, National Guard members, Reservists and military spouses with nationwide events and recognition of the important contributions they make to our communities. This year's theme, "Strengthening #VetBiz Communities," highlights the vital role veteran-owned businesses play in boosting regional economies and serving local communities through support from like-minded businesses and community partners. Throughout NVSBW 2024, the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) district offices and local resource partners will host in-person and virtual events to showcase the SBA’s ongoing support for military small business owners and raise awareness of the resources available to them.
Celebrate the Legacy and Future of Veteran Entrepreneurship
As we celebrate NVSBW 2024, it's essential to recognize the invaluable contributions veteran-owned businesses make to our economy. Veterans play a crucial role in building strong communities, and it's important to recognize that no one achieves business ownership alone. Through valuable connections, support networks, and resources, veterans are empowered to succeed. The SBA is going further than ever by enhancing support for veterans, particularly in rural and underserved areas. These efforts not only strengthen veteran-owned businesses but also contribute to the economic vitality of communities across the country.
By attending in-person and virtual events, you can explore the extensive resources offered by the SBA and its partners, connect with fellow veteran entrepreneurs, and celebrate the power of community.
NVSBW 2024 celebrates the rich history of military community entrepreneurship and features the comprehensive resources available to veterans, service members, military spouses, and family members. These tools and connections address the unique challenges veterans may face when considering entrepreneurship. SBA resources are designed to support the veteran business community, guiding them through the complexities of starting and growing a business. Look for NVSBW 2024 events in person and virtually to connect with individuals and organizations supporting veteran small business owners, participate in training, and hear inspiring success stories that demonstrate how veteran-owned businesses thrive with support and guidance from the SBA.
One success story is that of veteran Nate McFadden, who went to his local Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) after leaving the U.S. Marine Corps. Receiving an SBA-backed loan allowed Nate to grow his business, Elevated Technologies. Nate also learned how to obtain his Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification, which opened the door to government contracting. His journey exemplifies how accessing SBA resources can help veterans secure government contracts and scale their businesses. Elevated Technologies is now in 35 states across the country, employing workers, purchasing materials and supplies to service equipment, and ensuring elevator safety in schools, medical centers, and other critical community facilities. Learn more about how you can access similar resources and grow your business through government contracts.
Explore Local Assistance and Support Resources
A significant focus of NVSBW 2024 is to introduce veterans to local assistance resources. By attending in-person events, veteran entrepreneurs can connect with VBOCs and local partners to explore various support options, such as one-on-one counseling and networking opportunities, Women’s Business Centers (WBCs), Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), and SCORE business mentors. These programs ensure veterans have the essential tools, training, and support to succeed.
Access Capital and Government Contracting Opportunities
During NVSBW, veterans can find events that feature insights on accessing capital. The SBA offers several programs to help veterans secure the necessary funding, such as SBA Lender Match, 7(a) reduced fees, and the Military Reservist Economic Injury Disaster Loan (MREIDL). Attendees can also learn about the Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) Program and other non-SBA veteran funding resources.
Federal contracting presents a significant opportunity for veteran-owned businesses to engage in government contracts. During NVSBW, veterans can learn about the Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert) and SDVOSB certifications, which are vital for securing federal contracts. With a 5% SDVOSB federal contracting goal, the SBA is dedicated to providing veterans with a platform to grow their businesses.
Training Tools for Entrepreneurship
Events during NVSBW 2024 will feature training resources for the veteran entrepreneur, which are designed to equip veterans with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in business. The Veteran Federal Procurement Entrepreneur Training Program, Service-Disabled Veteran Entrepreneurship Training Program, and the Women Veteran Entrepreneurship Training Program offer targeted support for specific groups within the veteran community. Programs such as Boots to Business (B2B), Boots to Business Reboot, Boots to Business Revenue Readiness, and Military Spouse Pathway to Business provide specialized training for veterans, service members, and military spouses.
Join Us to Celebrate and Strengthen #VetBiz Communities
Participate in NVSBW 2024 activities by growing your skills, knowledge, and network with tools and partnerships from the SBA. As we invest in veteran-owned businesses and strengthen our support for #VetBiz communities, we honor those who have served and continue to serve our nation. Learn more about NVSBW. You can also join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #NVSBW24.
This blog was originally written by the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of Veterans Business Development (OVBD). To learn more about OVBD and its offerings, visit sba.gov/ovbd.