Disclaimer
The information contained in this Guide is provided for educational and informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, policies, benefits, programs, and resources may change over time.
Readers are strongly encouraged to verify all information with official sources, including but not limited to the Department of Defense (DoD), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Department of Labor (DOL), Office of Personnel Management (OPM), United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and other federal, state, or employerspecific programs before making career, financial, educational, financial, or housing decisions.
This guide does not constitute legal, financial, or career counseling advice, nor does it guarantee employment outcomes. The authors and publishers are not responsible for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from the use of this guide.
By using this resource, you acknowledge that responsibility for verifying and applying information rests with the individual.
Your Launch Team
What It Is
Transitioning from service to business ownership is easier when you leverage veteran-specific programs and free national mentor networks. These organizations provide training, counseling, and tools designed to help veterans and spouses launch and grow businesses
Key Components
Boots to Business (B2B): TAP track run by SBA; 2-day course + 8-week follow-on training covering business planning, funding, and resources. Open to servicemembers (including Guard/Reserve) and spouses.
Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOC): SBA-funded centers that specialize in veteran entrepreneurship support, including feasibility analysis, business planning, and loan prep Small Business Development Centers (SBDC): 900+ locations nationwide providing free one-on-one advising on business plans, financial projections, and loan packaging.
SCORE: National nonprofit with 10,000+ volunteer mentors who provide free, ongoing business coaching and workshops
Action Checklist Official Resources
Enroll in Boots to Business during TAP (or “Boots to Business: Reboot” if already separated).
Locate your nearest VBOC for veteranspecific advising.
Schedule a session with your local SBDC to build your business plan and financials.
Register for a SCORE mentor to provide ongoing coaching.
Combine these resources into your launch team — they are free and designed for veterans.
Business Models & Planning
What It Is
A business plan is your roadmap. It defines what you’re building, how you’ll make money, and how you’ll sustain growth. Veterans who invest time in planning reduce failure risks and attract lenders and partners.
Key Components
Business Models: Common options include product sales, services, contracting, franchising, and online commerce.
Lean Business Plan: A one-page summary of mission, customers, revenue, costs, and resources.
Full Business Plan: Detailed plan including market research, financials, and marketing strategies (often required by lenders).
Market Validation: Test your idea with real customers before investing heavily
Action Checklist
Draft a lean business plan using free SBA/SCORE templates.
Identify your target market and test your concept
Expand into a full business plan if seeking financing.
Share drafts with SBDC or SCORE advisors for feedback
Choosing a Business Structure
Why It Matters
Your legal structure impacts taxes, liability, and how you raise capital. The right choice depends on your goals, risk tolerance, and funding needs.
Key Components
Sole Proprietorship: Simple, but no liability protection. Partnership: Shared control and profits, but joint liability.
Limited Liability Company (LLC): Liability protection with flexible taxation.
Corporation (C-Corp or S-Corp): Strong liability protection; suited for raising capital.
Professional Guidance: Lawyers and CPAs help tailor the structure to your situation.
Review pros/cons of each structure. Decide how you want profits taxed (pass-through vs corporate).
Consult an attorney or CPA for complex cases.
Choose a structure before filing state registration.
State Formation & Local Filings
Why It Matters
Registering your business with your state makes it official. Depending on your industry and location, you may also need local business licenses or permits.
Action Checklist
Visit your state Secretary of State website for business registration. File Articles of Organization (LLC) or Incorporation (Corp).
Draft an Operating Agreement or Bylaws. Apply for necessary local licenses and permits.
Appoint a registered agent.
Key Components
State Registration: File Articles of Organization (LLC) or Incorporation (Corp) with Secretary of State.
Operating Agreement or Bylaws: Outlines ownership and management.
Licenses & Permits: Industryspecific and location-based (e.g., contractors, food service, retail sales).
Registered Agent: A required point of contact for legal notices.
(Employer Identification Number)
Why It Matters
An EIN is your business’s federal tax ID — required for employees, most banks, and often for licenses. The IRS issues it for free.
Key Components
Purpose: Identifies your business for taxes, payroll, and banking.
Process: Apply online at the IRS website — immediate issuance.
Cost: Free (beware of scam sites that charge).
When to Get It: After forming your business, before opening accounts or hiring.
Action Checklist
Apply online at the IRS website for free. Save your EIN confirmation notice securely. Use your EIN on tax filings, payroll, and bank forms. Never pay a third party unless using a CPA/legal service as part of incorporation.
Banking & Bookkeeping Basics
Why It Matters
Separating personal and business finances is essential for legal protection, tax reporting, and growth. A simple bookkeeping system helps you stay organized and loan-ready.
Key Components
Business Bank Account: Keeps finances separate; required for LLCs/Corps.
Merchant Services: Accept credit/debit card payments securely.
Bookkeeping System: Use QuickBooks, Wave, or free Excel templates.
Chart of Accounts: Track income, expenses, assets, and liabilities.
Monthly Close: Reconcile accounts and review cash flow regularly.
Open a business checking account using EIN and state docs. Apply for a business credit/debit card.
Set up a bookkeeping system (DIY or hire a bookkeeper). Reconcile accounts monthly to avoid surprises. Keep receipts and financial records for at least 7 years.
UEI & SAM.gov Registration
Why It Matters
To sell to the federal government, you must register in SAM.gov and obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). Both are free and required before bidding on contracts or receiving federal funds.
Key Components
UEI: Automatically assigned in SAM.gov when you register; replaces the old DUNS number.
SAM.gov Registration: Establishes your entity in the government’s procurement system.
NAICS Codes: Classify your business’s industry for contracting opportunities. Annual Renewal: SAM.gov must be updated yearly to remain active.
Action Checklist
Create an account on login.gov to access SAM.gov. Register your entity in SAM.gov (free).
Select your NAICS codes and small business size standard. Save your UEI confirmation. Set a reminder to renew annually.
VetCert: SDVOSB/VOSB Certification
Why It Matters
Veteran-owned businesses can compete for set-aside federal contracts. As of 2023, SBA manages the certification process through VetCert (MySBA Certifications).
Key Components
Eligibility: At least 51% owned and controlled by one or more veterans; service-disabled veterans for SDVOSB.
Application: Submit through MySBA Certifications portal with supporting documents.
Duration: Certification is valid for 3 years.
Contracting Benefits: Access to SDVOSB and VOSB set-asides and sole-source awards.
Action Checklist
Register in SAM.gov with UEI first.
Apply for VetCert via MySBA Certifications.
Upload proof of veteran status and business control.
Track certification status in the portal.
Market your business as SDVOSB/VOSB once approved.
Official Resources
SBA VetCert → veterans.certify.sba.gov SBA VOSB/SDVOSB Program → www.sba.gov/federalcontracting/contractingassistance-programs/veteranassistance-programs
APEX Accelerators (formerly
PTAC)
Why It Matters
APEX Accelerators (formerly Procurement Technical Assistance Centers, PTACs) provide no-cost support to help small businesses pursue government contracts.
Key Components
Contract Readiness: Assess whether your business is ready to compete. Registrations: Help with SAM.gov, UEI, and VetCert paperwork.
Market Research: Find contracting opportunities that fit your business.
Bid Assistance: Guidance on proposals, compliance, and contract performance.
Action Checklist
Locate your nearest APEX Accelerator.
Schedule an intake appointment. Review your business’s contracting readiness with an advisor.
Use APEX to identify bid opportunities. Get ongoing support while fulfilling contracts.
Official Resources
Funding Options: SBA 7(a), 504 & Microloans
Why It Matters
Access to capital is often a veteran entrepreneur’s biggest challenge. SBA-backed loans help small businesses secure funding they may not qualify for otherwise.
Key Components
7(a) Loan: Flexible, up to $5M, for working capital, equipment, or expansion.
504 Loan: Long-term, fixed-rate financing for real estate or major equipment.
Microloan: Up to $50,000 for startups or small needs.
Veteran Programs: Some lenders offer reduced fees for veteran borrowers.
Action Checklist
Prepare a business plan and financial projections.
Meet with an SBDC or VBOC advisor to package your loan application.
Approach SBA-approved lenders for financing.
Compare terms and repayment requirements. Keep financial records up-todate for future funding.
Official Resources
SBA Funding Programs → www.sba.gov/funding-programs
SBA Lender Match → www.sba.gov/lendermatch
Why It Matters
The right insurance protects your business from lawsuits, accidents, and unforeseen losses. It is often required for contracts and loans.
Key Components
General Liability Insurance: Covers accidents, injuries, and property damage.
Professional Liability (E&O): Protects against mistakes or negligence claims.
Workers’ Compensation: Required if you have employees.
Commercial Auto: Covers vehicles used for business purposes.
Cyber Liability: Protects against data breaches and cyberattacks.
Assess risks based on your industry. Get quotes from multiple insurers. Review contract and lender requirements. Purchase coverage before starting operations. Review policies annually as your business grows.
Licenses & Permits
Why It Matters
Even after registering with your state, many businesses need federal, state, or local licenses to operate legally. Missing permits can result in fines or shutdowns.
Key Components
Federal Licenses: Required for specific industries (aviation, firearms, alcohol, radio/TV, transportation, etc.).
State Licenses: Common for contractors, healthcare, real estate, or professional services.
Local Permits: Zoning, signage, health/safety, or sales tax permits.
Renewals: Many licenses must be renewed annually.
Official Resources
SBA License & Permit Guide → www.sba.gov/businessguide/launch/get-federalstate-local-business-licensespermits
State Business Licensing
Portals → www.nasdva.us (directory by state)
Action Checklist
Check SBA’s license/permit directory. Confirm state licensing requirements with your Secretary of State or regulatory boards. Apply for local permits through city/county offices. Track renewal dates to avoid lapses.
Hiring & Payroll Setup
Why It Matters
When you hire employees, you take on new responsibilities: payroll, taxes, and compliance. Getting it right avoids penalties and protects your team.
Key Components
Employer Registration: File with state labor/tax agencies.
Employee vs. Contractor: Misclassification can lead to fines.
Payroll System: Automate withholding, taxes, and reporting.
Benefits: Workers’ comp, unemployment insurance, and optional benefits.
Employee Handbook: Outlines policies and expectations.
Action Checklist
Apply for state employer accounts (withholding & unemployment tax). Set up a payroll service or software. Post required workplace compliance posters. Provide new hires with W-4 and I-9 forms.
Budget for taxes and benefits in advance.
U.S.
Why It Matters
Businesses must comply with federal, state, and sometimes local taxes. Planning
early prevents unexpected bills and penalties.
Key Components
Income Taxes: Federal + state based on your structure (LLC, S-Corp, etc.).
Self-Employment Tax: Social Security and Medicare contributions for owners.
Sales Tax: Required if you sell taxable goods/services; varies by state.
Quarterly Estimated Taxes: Most small businesses must prepay each quarter. Recordkeeping: Accurate books make tax filing easier.
Action Checklist
Register with your state for sales tax (if applicable). Track income/expenses monthly in bookkeeping software. File quarterly estimated taxes with IRS (Form 1040-ES). Consult a CPA for tax strategy.
Retain all records for 7 years.
Branding, Website & Marketing Basics
Why It Matters
Your brand and online presence build trust with customers. Without a clear brand identity and website, potential clients may not take your business seriously.
Key Components
Brand Identity: Logo, colors, messaging, and mission that resonate with your audience.
Website: A professional site with contact info, services/products, and credibility markers.
Social Media: Build awareness and connect with customers where they are.
Action Checklist
Secure a domain name and business email.
Build a simple website (WordPress, Wix, Squarespace).
Create business profiles on Google and LinkedIn.
Develop a one-page marketing plan.
Use SCORE/SBDC for free marketing strategy support.
Marketing Plan: Identify target customers, pricing strategy, and promotion methods.
B2B & B2G Sales Strategies
Why It Matters
Selling to other businesses (B2B) and government agencies (B2G) often requires different strategies than selling directly to consumers. Veterans with SDVOSB/VOSB status have a contracting edge.
Key Components
Capability Statement: A one-page summary of your business strengths, NAICS codes, and past performance.
Networking: Attend industry days, chamber of commerce events, and veteran business expos.
Proposal Writing: Respond to RFPs (Requests for Proposals) with clear, compliant responses.
Set-Aside Advantage: Market
SDVOSB/VOSB status to government buyers.
CRM Tools: Use software to track leads and opportunities.
Action Checklist
Draft a capability statement. Register with SAM.gov and complete VetCert (if eligible). Meet with your local APEX Accelerator for bid strategy. Attend government contracting networking events. Track sales activity with a CRM system.
Intellectual Property & Trademarks
Why It Matters
Protecting your brand and innovations ensures others can’t profit from your hard work. Intellectual Property (IP) includes trademarks, copyrights, patents, and trade secrets.
Key Components
Trademarks: Protect brand names, logos, and slogans through USPTO registration.
Copyrights: Protect creative works like books, music, software, or designs.
Patents: Protect inventions, processes, or unique products (utility, design, or plant patents).
Trade Secrets: Keep business formulas, processes, or methods confidential.
Enforcement: Registration gives you legal grounds to stop infringement.
Official Resources
USPTO Trademarks →
www.uspto.gov/trademarks
USPTO Patents → www.uspto.gov/patents
Copyright Office → www.copyright.gov
Action Checklist
Search USPTO’s database to check availability of your name/logo. File for a federal trademark if building a national brand. Register copyrights or patents where applicable.
Use NDAs (Non-Disclosure Agreements) to protect trade secrets.
Consult an IP attorney for complex cases.
Why It Matters
Veteran-owned businesses can expand globally, but exporting requires knowledge of regulations, logistics, and financing. Federal programs can help you get started safely.
Key Components
Export Assessment: U.S. Commercial Service offers tools to evaluate if your product is export-ready.
Market Research: Identify international demand and trade regulations.
Logistics & Compliance: Learn INCOTERMS, customs requirements, and freight forwarding.
Financing & Risk Protection: Use EXIM Bank or SBA Export Loan Programs for trade financing and insurance.
Export Assistance Centers: Provide handson help with international expansion.
Action Checklist
Complete an export readiness assessment with the U.S. Commercial Service. Research international markets through export.gov tools. Learn INCOTERMS and shipping basics.
Explore SBA export loans or EXIM Bank coverage.
Connect with a local Export Assistance Center.
STRENGTHENING ENTREPRENEURS
clear steps and confidence in navigating the entrepreneurial battlefield—whether through business planning, funding, certifications, federal contracting, or leveraging veteran entrepreneurship programs.