VETERAN MENTORING – BUSINESS MENTORS
Veteran Business Project’s staff and Business Mentor provide hands-on guidance and mentoring to Military, Veterans, and Spouse small business owneroperators including, but not limited to, entrepreneurship training, business opportunity referrals and more. This ongoing commitment to our military veterans underlies the essence of what the Veteran Business Project is all about – making a positive contribution in the lives of our veterans – by Getting Veterans into Business.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATION
We strongly encourage all who care about our veterans to get actively involved in helping them lead productive lives. In many cases, it is as simple as finding and befriending one veteran. It is as simple as taking a sincere interest in that veteran and any day-to-day challenge she/he may be facing. A good message on why this is so very important is set forth in this video message:

Mike Haynie at TEDx University of Nevada
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oSWhIUiGang
If you’re a veteran, 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.

