There are 12 million women-owned businesses in the U.S., including 1.1 million women-owned businesses with at least one paid employee – 20% of the nation’s total.

 

Whether you’re interested in joining that ownership group, or you’ve already taken the entrepreneurial plunge and could use some help along the way, there are resources available to address your specific challenges. The Small Business Administration (SBA) and MOAA are supporting the women veteran small business community by highlighting opportunities to help female entrepreneurs start and expand their business.   

 

[RELATED: Facing a Career Challenge? This Military Spouse’s Story Will Motivate You]

 

1. Boots to Business is the perfect first step for women who are servicemembers, veterans, and military spouses looking to learn the fundamentals of business. Classes are available on military installations worldwide and in local communities via Boots to Business Reboot.

2. Women Veteran Entrepreneurship Training Program (WVETP): This program can help women veterans build the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of small business ownership. A network of SBA-funded grantees including the Institute for Veterans and Military Families, San Antonio LiftFund, and ONABEN are available to support. 

3. Local Resources for Women Veterans: Women veteran entrepreneurs can access business advisers and mentors in their local neighborhood and remotely via phone and video chat. SBA resource partners – including Women’s Business Centers and Veterans Business Outreach Centers – are equipped with the tools and resources to prepare women veterans to enter the business world.

4. American Corporate Partners (ACP). Whether you are a transitioning servicemember contemplating your civilian career, a veteran looking to land a promotion, or a military spouse seeking a customized mentorship program to connect with business leaders, ACP Mentors can help you plan your future! Find more on the ACP-MOAA mentoring program for members and their spouses at this link.

 

[MOAA WEBINAR RECORDING: Plan Your Future: Get a Mentor!]

 

5. Franchising. Interested in going into business for yourself, but not by yourself? Watch a webinar from MOAA and the International Franchise Association Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit to receive expert guidance on how to find the right franchising fit and take your small business ownership career to the next level. Register today!

Whenever it's time for you as a veteran or military spouse entrepreneur to start or take the next step with your business, know that you have a whole support network available, and you don’t have to do it alone.