OUR MISSION | STORY
OUR MISSION
Veteran Business Project promotes veteran small business ownership opportunities by getting military, veterans, and spouses into business. We educate active duty military, veterans, business owners, financial institutions, public and private sectors, the general public, and legislators on the necessity for pro-veteran small business ownership and accompanying, realistic federal and state business lending programs. Veteran Business Project then connects these groups to facilitate veterans’ small business ownership.
OUR STORY
Veteran Business Project is dedicated to solving the problem of veteran unemployment in America by helping entrepreneurial veterans get into business for themselves. The fact that unemployment among Iraq and Afghanistan veterans exceeds the national average is a national disgrace. As a nation, we haven’t done a great job in welcoming our veterans home.
Over the next five (5) years, more than 1,000,000 veterans will leave active duty – a number not seen since the end of World War II. We have to do more than just say, “Thanks for your service.” We need to take decisive action to truly welcome our veterans home and help them integrate back into our communities.
A great way to do this is by making sure they can secure a future for themselves and their families — by owning their own businesses. With the help of our grassroots movement and motivated people all across America, we are making a difference…Getting Veterans Into Business!
If you’re a veteran or a military spouse and would like to begin investigating business ownership, register here! You’ll also receive ongoing News and Events updates.
If you’re a business, and would like to potentially sell your existing business to a veteran, register here! You’ll also receive ongoing News and Events updates.
For News and Events updates only, register here
In the News
Veteran Business Success Story: Ignacio Gonzalez, DreamCatcher Café
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.
Jonathan Roldan’s Entrepreneurial Journey with Brightside Car Wash
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.
A Veteran’s Success: Crafting Community After Service
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.
Veteran’s Blueprint: Building a Business with Precision and Purpose
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.
From Battlefield to Business Success: Kevin Deal’s Web Resolver Pros Story
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.
Veteran’s New Mission: Serving Businesses and Community
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.
