Marine Corps veteran Mike Tucker is turning military humor and camaraderie into Cannoneer Apparel, an online clothing brand inspired by his service and designed for veterans, service members and military families. With support from Veteran Business Project, Tucker hopes to grow the business into something bigger—a community that helps veterans reconnect, find resources and build meaningful connections.

Army veteran Dean M. Prestegaard is drawing on more than 30 years of military, economic and transportation expertise to build his own consulting practice. His story highlights how veterans can recognize and translate the skills they developed in service into entrepreneurship, with mentorship from Veteran Business Project helping him navigate the challenges of building a business.

Navy veteran Ralph Venturanza and his wife turned an entrepreneurial idea into Laundry Works, a community-focused laundromat built on the values of service and connection. With support from Veteran Business Project, Ralph navigated the early challenges of launching the business while bringing his military and supply chain experience to entrepreneurship—and making community service a central part of the business.

Ignacio Gonzalez went from serving in the Marine Corps to running a neighborhood coffee shop, carrying with him the discipline, determination, and sense of service that shaped his life. After serving his country in both the military and law enforcement, he turned a lifelong passion for coffee into a business. That passion led to DreamCatcher Café, a favorite neighborhood spot where every cup comes with a chance to slow down and connect.

For Jonathan Roldan, a proud veteran and family man, the road to business ownership has been a testament to adaptability and a relentless pursuit of a better quality of life. Having served in the Army from 2009 to 2013, which included an 11-month deployment to Iraq as a field artillery crew member, Jonathan transitioned from his military service to a demanding career in logistics. As of July 1, he has embarked on a new mission: breathing new life into Brightside Car Wash in Naperville, Illinois.

From combat to craft beverages, JT Robertson's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and community. Find out how this veteran turned a pandemic-induced frustration into a thriving mead business, and how you, as a veteran or military spouse, can follow a similar path.

Joe Sutton's journey from the Marine Corps to the workshop is a testament to the power of resilience and innovation. After serving his country, including multiple deployments to Iraq, Joe channeled his discipline and leadership skills into a passion he'd nurtured for years: woodworking. Today, he's the proud owner of Living Edge Creations, LLC, a burgeoning laser engraving and CNC machining business, where he crafts everything from intricate 3D-stacked text signs to custom-designed pieces for special events.

Dedicated Army veteran Kevin Deal has successfully transitioned his military discipline and technical skills into a thriving business venture, Web Resolver Pros. After six years of service as a 25B (Information Systems Analyst), Kevin now empowers small businesses with affordable, professional websites.

Retired Army Lieutenant Colonel David Roman has taken on a new mission: helping businesses succeed by optimizing costs. His journey—from commanding attack helicopters to leading a Schooley Mitchell franchise—demonstrates how military skills translate to the business world and highlights the transformative power of mentorship. Through dedication and the proper support, he has found a path that aligns his experience with his passion for service.

VBP is proud to highlight the success story of Justin Miller, a veteran entrepreneur who recently acquired a home improvement business while utilizing guidance and support from VBP business coaches. Justin, a former US Army soldier who served multiple tours of duty in Iraq, attributes his military experience to the adaptability, decisiveness, and leadership skills he now considers essential for running his business. "The daily operations feel very similar to being a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) in the military," he explains. These values also influence his approach to customer service, where he emphasizes honesty, transparency, quality workmanship, and building solid relationships.