Thousands of veterans have enrolled in the Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program, learning directly from professional partners around the state with a focus on veterans and their unique skills.
We asked our partners to share some advice for veterans ready to start or build their business:
"Embrace the strength and resilience that your military journey has instilled in you, for these qualities are the foundation of great entrepreneurship. Your unique perspective is your greatest asset—let it shine and inspire others on their paths to success. Be THE CEO!"
Juliann Nichols, CEO and Founder, JULO Strategy Global
“As a veteran starting or growing your business, leverage the discipline, resilience, and leadership skills you’ve developed throughout your service. Focus on identifying your unique value proposition—what sets your business apart. Surround yourself with a strong support network, and don’t hesitate to seek advice and mentorship from those who have navigated the path before you.”
Dr. Kevin Cox, Director of the Adams Center for Entrepreneurship at Florida Atlantic University
“Get a mentor: A mentor with business or startup experience can help veterans get started on the right path.
“Complete a Business Model Canvas: This tool provides structure to the planning process. It allows the user to describe, design, challenge, invent, and pivot their business model.
“Network: Veteran-specific organizations and military networks can provide a unique networking advantage.”
Diane Denslow, President, Valor2Venture
In southwest Florida, “Veterans Business Council offers valuable opportunities to connect with other veterans and business leaders, providing essential networking and mentorship. By joining, you'll gain access to specialized resources and support tailored for veterans, which can help you start or expand your business more effectively.”
Rachel West, Vice President, SWFL Inc.
“Starting a business is hard, really, really hard. It’s too hard to do alone. There are so many people and groups that want to help and support you because you are a veteran. Get yourself out there and talk to people, go to events, and tell people what you want to do (or what you think you want to do). Ask for introductions, use LinkedIn, and build your network. You’ll be amazed at how you will be inspired. Every successful veteran entrepreneur is successful because others have “held the door” for them.”
Kim Richmond, Director, 26 West Entrepreneurship Center
"To veterans ready to start or grow their business: pursue ventures that align with your personal passions while leveraging the discipline, leadership, and resilience you've honed during your service. By following your passions, you'll be more likely to stay committed to your mission. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and build a strong network of support. Remember, your unique experiences are powerful assets in the entrepreneurial world, setting you apart and driving your success."
Jonathan Schaffer, Manager of Entrepreneurship Outreach Programs at Florida Gulf Coast University
“As the Levan Center of Innovation in Fort Lauderdale is part of the South Florida innovation ecosystem, we strongly encourage our veteran entrepreneurs to take advantage of the networking opportunities in the community to meet fellow entrepreneurs, to hear success stories and lessons learned and meet others who can assist with the growth, including mentors, investors, and potential customers. But with that comes the importance of being prepared to have these conversations, including having a 30-second elevator pitch that clearly explains what the business does.”
Jaap Donath, Ph.D., Assistant Executive Director, Programs, Alan B. Levan | NSU Broward Center of Innovation
“I always encourage Veterans no matter where they are in their transition to take an entrepreneurship course. I say this not to lead them down the path to launch a business. Entrepreneurs are problem solvers. Unleashing your entrepreneurial mindset opens your mind to recognizing problems others don’t see and create solutions faster. This skill will set you apart from your peers, help with promotions, or you may discover you are an entrepreneur.”
Valerie Ellis Lavin, First Sergeant U.S. Army (Retired), Action Zone - Co-Founder
“The military has already forged in you the skills that are the backbone of every successful business — grit, discipline, resolve, leadership, and adaptability. These are qualities money can’t buy and textbooks can’t teach. Your task now is to master the hard skills — finances, marketing, and strategy — and pair them with your military strengths.”
Trish Murphy, Chair, Florida Association of Veteran Owned Businesses
About The Author
Veterans Florida Team
Veterans Florida is an economic and workforce development nonprofit created by the State of Florida to provide SkillBridge, career, and entrepreneur resources and training for separating or retiring U.S. military servicemembers, veterans, members of the National Guard or Reserves, and their spouses who make or desire to make Florida their home.
