11 Tips for Supporting Veteran-Owned Businesses

Far too many people forget that military personnel eventually finish their tours of duty or retire. Those people then need to decide what to do with the rest of their lives, and entrepreneurship can be just the opportunity they need. Supporting a veteran-owned business is an excellent way to show your ongoing appreciation for the owner’s amazing sacrifice and service. Here’s how you can help.

• Research which businesses in your city and the surrounding areas are veteran run and support them however you can. 
• There are literally hundreds of thousands of veterans out there who are unemployed. If you run your own company, make it a point to hire a couple.
• Use your social media feeds to advertise your support for your favorite veteran-owned business and encourage your friends, family, and followers to do the same.
• Whenever you can, go out of your way to give veteran-run establishments your loyal patronage. One of the most powerful ways to show your support will always be to leverage the power of your wallet.
• Many veterans are interested in the idea of running a business but don’t know where to start. Consider taking one under your wing and helping him get started.
• Look into valuable resources for would-be veteran entrepreneurs and spread the word however you can. Sometimes a little well-timed information is all someone needs to finally take the plunge.
• Help others find qualifying businesses to support by putting together a helpful guide to the options available in your area. 
• If workshops are more your thing, consider planning and hosting one specifically for veterans. It can be online, offline, or a combination of both.
• Communal gatherings can also be really powerful. Raise awareness of the qualifying businesses in your area with a fun get-together that benefits everyone involved.
• If you happen to be run a veteran-owned business yourself, consider getting it certified through the United States Business Registration. Make other veterans you may know aware of the benefits of getting certified as well.
• Look for ways you can partner with a qualifying business. You can help each other and grow together. 

Of course, these are just a few of the many ways you can help entrepreneurial veterans in your area build successful, satisfying lives after military service. Don’t be afraid to add to the list or seek out additional opportunities on your own.

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