John Giles has spent his adult life building businesses that last. What began in 1998 with a single restaurant point-of-sale system in his grandmother’s basement grew into a nationally recognized technology company, employing more than 50 people and ranking among the top products in its space before being acquired in 2017. Today, he’s building again through Round 2 POS. But this time, part of the work is focused on opening doors for others, specifically veterans ready to build something of their own.

That focus led to Vets to VARs, a veteran-focused outreach effort within Round 2 POS designed to help qualified veterans transition into business ownership as Value-Added Resellers in the restaurant POS and payments industry. For Giles, this work is about creating real economic opportunity using a model he knows works. While not a veteran himself, he carries deep respect for those who served and was inspired to reach out after seeing Lynn Lowder speak on national news about creating pathways for veterans to succeed. Those conversations, and Lowder’s commitment to giving veterans a fair shot, motivated Giles to take action in the way he knows best. Giles believes that when you have the experience and tools to help a veteran build a future, there is a responsibility to step forward and do so.

Vets to VARs is intentionally narrow. In simple terms, participants become the local business owner restaurants rely on for their point-of-sale systems, from selecting and installing technology to providing ongoing service and support. It’s a hands-on, relationship-driven role built on trust, responsiveness, and long-term partnerships with local operators. That is why prior restaurant experience is essential, and why this opportunity is designed for veterans who already understand the pace and pressure of that environment.

The program is not for everyone, but for the right veteran, it can be a meaningful post-military transition. The model is proven, already operating successfully, and built around recurring revenue and long-term client relationships. Participants are invited to see the business firsthand, learn the systems behind sales and service, and understand what it takes to earn and keep the trust of restaurant owners. The goal is not just individual success, but a cycle where veterans who build strong businesses help guide the next group forward.

Vets to VARs aligns closely with the mission of Veteran Business Project. It reflects a shared belief that veterans deserve a fair shot at ownership, dignity in their work, and opportunities that strengthen families and local economies.

Veterans interested in learning more about the Vets to VARs opportunity can visit Round 2 POS at https://round2pos.com/ to explore how the program works and whether it may be a fit. Those looking for guidance or connection to the broader veteran business community are also encouraged to reach out through Veteran Business Project to start the conversation.