www.diverseabilitymagazine.com DIVERSEability Magazine 69
BUSINESS 2 BUSINESS
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elf-employment has remained a popular option for veterans with disabilities look- ing to make their way back into the workforce after deployment. But what they may not realize is that they may be entitled to more resources, funding and opportunities that they may not even be aware of. Because of their time in the military, veterans enter business ownership with many of the qualities essen- tial to entrepreneurial success, like resiliency, resourcefulness and organization. We encour- age veteran business owners to use the follow- ing strategies to further enhance your existing acumen and build lasting businesses:
1
Learn entrepreneurship best practices.
As a former service member, you are adept at learning new skills rapidly and applying them expertly and precisely. You can do the same in the small business sector by taking advantage of the SBAs educational resources. Start with Boots to Business, a two- day education and training program that helps aspiring transitioning service members and veteran entrepreneurs learn the fundamentals of business. Next, build on that foundational understanding of business best practices by taking online courses through the SBA Learning Center on topics ranging from social media marketing to pricing strategies.
2
Leverage your network.
Consider seizing online and in-person networking opportunities specific to veteran small business owners. LinkedIn groups or Meetup groups for veteran entrepreneurs can be an ideal forum for finding key business connections within the veteran community.
3
Connect with a mentor.
Learn from the experience of someone who already has years of successful small business owner- ship under their belt. You may consider tap- ping your network to find someone who is
Enhance Your Service-Disabled, Veteran-Owned Small Business
the right fit - or you might turn to an another resource, like your local Veteran Business Outreach Center (VBOC) or SCORE. These organizations will match you with an experi- enced mentor who can help you navigate sce- narios and challenges you havent yet faced.
4
Plan, plan, plan - but be ready to pivot.
From your days in the military, you know the importance of planning - but you're also highly adaptable and resourceful. Channel this balance between structure and flexibility into your business venture. While its essential to have a living business plan that lays out your general path forward, its also important to be able to roll with the punches and modify your plan as needed.
5
Find a cause or mission.
Veterans are often naturally mission-oriented. Finding a way to contribute to your local community or the broader military community will help you stay motivated and fulfill your tendency toward altruism.
6
Work with the VA.
The Department of Veterans Affairs is a one-stop shop to cer- tification, information and addi- tional aid that you may need, especially if youre looking to become or already are a DVBE or SDVOSB. Make sure to visit their website at sba.gov/federal-contracting/con- tracting-assistance-programs/veteran-assis- tance-programs and inquire on how you can make the most of your certification perks. The skills you learned in the military already give you a leg up in the small business sector. Now, gain a further edge by leveraging your small business tools, resources and guid- ance whether it be through the SBA, VA or other organizations dedicated to helping your business.
Source: SBA
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