How Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOCs) Help Veteran Entrepreneurs

Introduction to VBOCs

Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOCs) are dedicated to empowering veteran entrepreneurs and transitioning service members with the skills and resources needed to start or grow their businesses. Supported by the Small Business Administration (SBA), VBOCs provide tailored training, mentorship, and assistance to help veterans turn their business ideas into successful ventures. Whether you’re launching your first business or expanding an existing one, VBOCs offer free, expert guidance at every stage of your journey.

Key Resources Offered by VBOCs

VBOCs focus on providing personalized support for veterans, including:
  • Entrepreneurship Training: Gain essential skills in business planning, marketing, and financial management.
  • Transition Assistance: VBOCs offer workshops like Boots to Business (B2B) for service members transitioning to civilian life to help kickstart entrepreneurial aspirations.
  • Access to Funding: Learn about grants, loans, and other financial resources for veteran-owned businesses.
Pro Tip: Attend a Boots to Business workshop early in your transition to gain a head start on your entrepreneurial journey.

How VBOCs Support Business Growth

VBOCs are not just for start-ups; they also support established veteran-owned businesses with:
  • Expansion Planning: Receive advice on scaling operations, entering new markets, and increasing profitability.
  • Government Contracting Guidance: Understand how to compete for contracts set aside for veteran-owned small businesses (VOSBs) and service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses (SDVOSBs).
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow veteran entrepreneurs, mentors, and industry leaders.