The number of veterans that are starting their own businesses is currently on the rise. It can be difficult to find a new career path after coming back home from active duty deployment so many veterans are taking advantage of the resources available to them to become entrepreneurs. According to the Small Business Administration, 9% of the businesses in the U.S. are veteran-owned. Here are some tips for any veterans looking to reinvent themselves by pursuing an entrepreneurial endeavor.
1.Earn different business certifications.
Business certifications not only give you the tools and knowledge you need to be a successful small business owner, they also allow you to stand out amongst your competition. For example, the Project Management Certification (PMP) and Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) exam can give you the information and credentials to become a project management professional. PMP certification training is available as an online course with supportive instructors so that you can learn at your own pace with your specific learning style. CAPM and PMP certification training courses give you the PDUs, course materials, quizzes, and required amount of hours of project management education that you need to take your PMP exam and receive your CAPM and PMP certification.
Prior to taking your PMP exam, you’ll need to find a PMP training provider or project management online training course with instructors to help you master the knowledge area of the PMP certification exam. As a military veteran, there are discounts and scholarships available to you specifically in the PMP application process. Having the help to finance your PMP exam prep course and PMP certification exam alleviates some of the stress of the PMP certification process.
2. Consider becoming a franchisee.
Franchise ownership is a great business opportunity for military veterans in the United States. Becoming a small business owner is no small feat in the U.S., which is why many people are choosing to turn to franchise companies. If you have a passion for becoming a business owner, becoming a franchisee can help you fast-track your goals.
When looking for the best franchises for veterans, pay close attention to a company’s veteran incentive program. As a veteran that wants to be their own boss by becoming a franchise owner, you want to take advantage of any resources that are provided solely to military veterans. The UPS Store is one of the top franchise brands for veteran entrepreneurs. They’re currently offering veteran franchisees business opportunities with $300,000 in incentives. This money is going to be split among the first 10 qualified veterans, waiving $30,000 of the initial franchise fee.
The UPS Store is a great franchise opportunity for veterans because its franchise brand has over 40 years of experience with over 5,000 stores across North America. Its franchise system has thousands of franchisees with a passion for the business. Owning a UPS franchise provides veterans with an incredible support system, a successful business model, and a trusted name and reputation.
3. Find a business mentor.
As a new entrepreneur and first-time small business owner, you may not have the expertise in the specific knowledge area of your business. This is why finding a mentor is the logical next step in your growth as a business owner. As a military veteran, there are many programs that can match you with a successful business mentor. One specific mentorship that has proven to be exceptionally helpful to veterans is currently broadening their services to help the spouses of vets, according to the Military Times. Service members need a support system when they come back home, and they deserve to have a support system when it comes to starting their own business.