What are the options for Small business grants for Veterans
Small business grants for veterans
are financial resources specifically designed to support veterans who are
entrepreneurs and small business owners. These grants aim to assist veterans in
launching, expanding, or sustaining their businesses. Here are some notable
options for small
business grants for veterans:
1.
Small Business Administration (SBA) Veteran-Owned
Small Business Programs:
·
The SBA offers several programs tailored to veteran
entrepreneurs, including the Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business
(SDVOSB) program and the Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) program. These
programs provide preferential access to federal contracting opportunities,
which can be lucrative for qualified veteran-owned businesses.
2.
Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) Grants:
·
VBOCs are regional centers that provide training,
counseling, and resources to veteran entrepreneurs. While they don't directly
provide grants, they can help veterans identify and apply for various funding
opportunities, including grants.
3.
StreetShares Foundation Veteran Business Grant:
·
The StreetShares Foundation offers annual veteran
business grants of up to $15,000. These grants are awarded to veteran-owned
businesses through a competitive application process.
4.
Hivers and Strivers Angel Investor Group:
·
Hivers and Strivers is an angel investor group that
focuses on investing in startups founded and led by graduates of U.S. military
academies. While not a traditional grant, it provides funding opportunities and
mentorship to veteran entrepreneurs.
5.
The EBV Foundation Grant:
·
The Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans (EBV)
Foundation offers grants and support to graduates of their EBV program, which
provides business education and training to post-9/11 veterans.
6.
Veteran Small Business Awards:
·
Various organizations and corporations, such as the
National Veteran-Owned Business Association (NaVOBA) and the StreetShares
Foundation, host annual business competitions with cash grants for
veteran-owned businesses.
7.
VetFran Program:
·
The International Franchise Association's VetFran
program offers financial incentives, including grants and fee discounts, to
veterans interested in becoming franchise business owners.
8.
Corporate Grants and Initiatives:
·
Some large corporations have initiatives to support
veteran-owned businesses. Examples include the Verizon Small Business Grant for
veterans and the Lowe's Small Business Grant Program.
9.
State and Local Grants:
·
Some states and local governments offer grants and
financial incentives to veteran-owned businesses. These programs can vary
widely by location, so it's essential to check with your state's economic
development agency.
10. Non-Profit
Organizations:
·
Various non-profit organizations, such as the PenFed
Foundation's Veteran Entrepreneur Investment Program, provide grants and
funding opportunities to veteran entrepreneurs.
When applying for small business
grants for veterans, it's essential to review the specific eligibility criteria
and requirements for each program. Prepare a strong business plan and grant
proposal that clearly demonstrates how your business aligns with the grant's
objectives and how the funds will be used to support your entrepreneurial
endeavors. Additionally, consider seeking assistance from organizations like
VBOCs and veterans' support networks to maximize your chances of securing grant
funding.
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