In recent years, the conversation around veterans has evolved beyond just thanking them for their service. Society has begun to recognize their immense potential to drive change in sectors beyond the military. One of the most exciting areas where veterans are making their mark is in the world of business. At Owners in Honor, we are proud to be at the forefront of this movement, connecting veterans with the tools, resources, and knowledge they need to become successful business owners.

Our mission is simple yet profound: we aim to empower veterans by helping them navigate the world of entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA). For veterans who have served our country with honor, the transition from military life to civilian life can be daunting, particularly when it comes to career opportunities. Too often, the skills they gained in service—leadership, discipline, and resilience—don’t get the recognition they deserve in the job market. But at Owners in Honor, we believe these skills are invaluable and can be the foundation for successful business ownership.

The Growing Role of Veterans in Business

Across the nation, the need for veteran business owners has never been more pressing. According to a 2024 report from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), veterans are leading the way in business ownership at a time when the economy is facing an uncertain future. With growing interest in entrepreneurship, veterans are uniquely positioned to succeed due to the leadership qualities they developed in the military. In fact, studies show that veterans are 45% more likely to be self-employed than their civilian counterparts.

In addition to leadership, veterans bring an unparalleled work ethic, adaptability, and a strong sense of duty to the table—qualities that are essential for overcoming the obstacles of business ownership. However, despite these advantages, many veterans are still unaware of the vast opportunities available to them in the world of business ownership. At Owners in Honor, our goal is to bridge that gap by providing a clear path for veterans to acquire and successfully manage businesses.

Connecting Veterans to Business Opportunities

The Veterans Entrepreneurship Program (VEP), part of our initiative, is designed to help veterans transition smoothly into the business world. This program connects veterans to a wide network of business brokers, advisors, and mentors, all of whom are dedicated to helping veterans find and acquire small businesses that align with their skills, interests, and goals.

In today’s economic climate, buying an established business can be a smart alternative to starting a business from scratch. With inflation, supply chain disruptions, and uncertain market conditions, many aspiring entrepreneurs are finding it difficult to launch new ventures. Veterans, however, are increasingly recognizing the value in acquiring an existing business and taking over operations with their leadership abilities.

As we look at current events, the ongoing rise of inflation and global supply chain disruptions have made it harder for new businesses to thrive in an unpredictable environment. According to the latest reports, small businesses are facing more challenges than ever. Rising costs, limited resources, and staffing issues are just a few of the many hurdles. For veterans, acquiring an established business can be an effective way to bypass some of these challenges. These businesses come with existing customer bases, operational systems, and infrastructure, making the transition much easier than starting from scratch.

Veterans also have access to a variety of funding options designed specifically for them. The SBA's 7(a) loan program, for example, offers favorable terms for veterans who are looking to purchase a business. This program, along with other veteran-specific grants and financing options, makes it easier for veterans to overcome the financial barriers of business acquisition.

From Combat to Commerce: The Challenges Veterans Face in Business Ownership

While veterans have a distinct advantage when it comes to business ownership, the journey is not without its challenges. The transition from a structured, military environment to the often chaotic world of business can be overwhelming. The language of business, the technicalities of financial statements, and the nuances of customer relations are all new territories for veterans who may not have had exposure to these aspects during their military service.

At Owners in Honor, we understand these challenges. That’s why we provide veterans with the mentorship, training, and resources they need to succeed. Our team of experienced business advisors works one-on-one with veterans to guide them through the complexities of business acquisition, management, and growth. We also offer educational resources that help veterans better understand business finances, legal structures, and marketing strategies.

As the world continues to evolve and economies shift, the importance of small business ownership will only grow. Today’s economy, while facing uncertainties, presents unique opportunities for veterans who are willing to leverage their experiences and skills in new ways. The entrepreneurial spirit of veterans is unmatched, and at Owners in Honor, we are committed to helping them harness that spirit to build successful, sustainable businesses.

Current Events: The Role of Veteran Entrepreneurs in Shaping the Future

In light of recent global events, such as the rise of AI technology, supply chain disruptions, and shifting political landscapes, the role of veterans in business has become even more crucial. The adaptability and problem-solving skills veterans developed in the military are exactly what are needed to navigate these turbulent times. Veteran entrepreneurs are stepping up to the plate, leading the way in adapting new technologies, managing supply chain complexities, and creating innovative solutions to address the challenges of the modern world.

At Owners in Honor, we are proud to play a part in this exciting movement. By empowering veterans to take control of their futures through business ownership, we are not only changing their lives—we are contributing to a more resilient, diverse, and dynamic business landscape.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

The world is changing, and with it, the opportunities for veterans to make an impact in the business world are expanding. Owners in Honor is here to guide them every step of the way. By helping veterans acquire and manage businesses, we are not just honoring their service—we are enabling them to lead the way in the next great era of entrepreneurship.

If you're a veteran who is ready to make the leap into business ownership, or if you know a veteran who might benefit from our programs, we invite you to reach out to Owners in Honor. Together, we can build a brighter future for veterans, small businesses, and the nation as a whole.

Let’s honor their service by giving them the tools to succeed in business. The time is now.

‍