As veterans return home from military service, many face the challenge of finding meaningful employment in the civilian world. However, a growing number of veterans are turning to entrepreneurship as a way to build successful careers and make a lasting impact. In fact, veterans are 45% more likely to start their own business than non-veterans, according to the Small Business Administration. But what makes veterans such a powerful force in entrepreneurship? It's their collective mindset and support network.

The Community of Veteran-Owned Businesses

Veterans are not only starting their own businesses, but they are also supporting each other in the process. The community of veteran-owned businesses is growing, and veterans are banding together to share resources, offer mentorship, and provide camaraderie. This support network is crucial for veterans, who often face unique challenges as entrepreneurs. Veterans may have limited access to capital, experience cultural differences in the business world, or struggle with mental health issues such as PTSD. However, by coming together as a community, they can overcome these obstacles and achieve success.

The Benefits of Hiring Veterans

In today's competitive business environment, companies are always looking for ways to gain a competitive advantage. One way to achieve this is by hiring veterans. Veterans are a valuable asset to existing companies due to their unique skills and experiences. Their military training has taught them leadership, discipline, and a strong work ethic, which are essential qualities in any workplace. They also have experience working in diverse teams, adapting to new environments, and solving complex problems, which are valuable skills in today's fast-paced business world.

Moreover, hiring veterans is not only beneficial for the companies but also for the veterans themselves. After serving their country, many veterans struggle to find meaningful employment. By hiring veterans, companies can help them transition to civilian life and provide them with the opportunities they deserve. Companies can also benefit from the skills and experiences that veterans bring to the table. Veterans have proven to be highly reliable and dedicated employees, which can lead to higher productivity, lower turnover rates, and better customer satisfaction.

In addition to these benefits, many companies are recognizing the value of having a diverse and inclusive workforce. Hiring veterans can help companies achieve this goal by bringing in individuals with different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. This diversity can lead to more innovative solutions, better decision-making, and improved creativity. Companies can also leverage their support of veterans to improve their brand image and attract new customers who value companies that are socially responsible.

In conclusion, hiring veterans is a win-win for both veterans and companies. Veterans bring unique skills and experiences to the workplace, which can lead to higher productivity, lower turnover rates, and better customer satisfaction. Companies can also benefit from having a more diverse and inclusive workforce, which can lead to more innovative solutions and better decision-making. By recognizing the value of veterans and actively seeking to hire them, companies can make a positive impact on society while also achieving their business objectives.

Supporting Veteran Entrepreneurs

As a society, we have a duty to support our veteran entrepreneurs. They have served our country with honor and distinction, and they possess the skills, discipline, and determination necessary to succeed as business owners. However, they face unique challenges when it comes to starting and growing businesses, including limited access to capital, a lack of mentorship and training programs, and a scarcity of opportunities to win government contracts.

To address these challenges, we can take a number of steps. First, we can provide more access to capital through government programs and private investment networks. We can also create more mentorship and training programs specifically tailored to the needs of veteran entrepreneurs, including programs that focus on digital marketing, financial management, and other key business skills.

In addition, we can work to create more opportunities for veteran-owned businesses to win government contracts. This includes streamlining the contracting process, reducing bureaucracy, and ensuring that veteran-owned businesses have a fair shot at competing for contracts.

But perhaps the most important thing we can do is to choose to support veteran-owned businesses whenever possible. By buying from these businesses, we help to create a more vibrant and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. We show our appreciation for their service and sacrifice, and we help to build a stronger economy for everyone.

In conclusion, veterans are a powerful force in entrepreneurship. They possess the skills, discipline, and determination necessary to succeed as business owners. As a society, we can support them by recognizing their value, providing resources and opportunities, and choosing to do business with them. Together, we can create a more vibrant and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem that benefits us all. Let's honor our veterans by supporting their businesses and helping them achieve success.

Jeff Shuford is an Iraq War veteran, nationally syndicated columnist, and co-founder of National Invest in Veterans Week. He's a thought leader in digital marketing and a powerful advocate for veteran entrepreneurs. Under his leadership, National Invest in Veterans Week has become a force in the world of entrepreneurship. The South Carolina Senate recognized his advocacy by issuing a proclamation in 2021.