Training & Education Programs
A free 2-day entrepreneurship course offered at military installations worldwide and online. Covers business concept development, market research, and financing options. Taught by experienced instructors and SBA resource partners.
- Available to transitioning service members, veterans, National Guard, Reserve members, and military spouses
- Offered on military installations and through online cohorts
- Includes follow-on 8-week online course for deeper business planning
Enroll at sba.gov/boots-to-business →
The same Boots to Business curriculum delivered in communities across the country — not just on military installations. Designed for veterans and military spouses who have already transitioned out of service.
- Available in communities nationwide through local SBA resource partners
- No military base access required
- Perfect for veterans years after separation who are ready to start a business
Find a Reboot session →
Loan Programs
The flagship SBA loan program, with special fee reductions for veteran-owned businesses. The most flexible SBA loan — use it for almost any legitimate business purpose.
- Upfront guarantee fee WAIVED for veteran-owned businesses on loans under $150,000
- Reduced fee on loans $150K–$500K
- Use for: working capital, equipment, real estate purchase, refinancing
- Apply through SBA-approved lenders — banks, credit unions, online lenders
- Repayment terms: up to 10 years (working capital), 25 years (real estate)
Learn more at sba.gov →
A streamlined version of the 7(a) loan with a guaranteed 36-hour SBA response time. Ideal for veteran-owned businesses that need faster financing decisions.
- 36-hour SBA turnaround (vs. weeks for standard 7(a))
- Reduced fees for veteran-owned businesses
- Revolving lines of credit available
- Use for working capital, equipment, or short-term needs
Learn more at sba.gov →
Small loans designed for startups and small businesses that may not qualify for traditional bank financing. Administered through nonprofit intermediary lenders who also provide technical assistance.
- Average loan: approximately $13,000
- More flexible credit requirements than standard bank loans
- Paired with free business training and mentoring
- Veterans often receive priority consideration
- Perfect for inventory, equipment, or early working capital
Find a microlender →
Mentoring & Counseling
SCORE is a nonprofit network of over 10,000 volunteer business mentors — retired executives and entrepreneurs who provide free guidance to small business owners. Veteran-specific mentors available.
- Free mentoring sessions — online and in-person
- Match with mentors who have military or defense industry backgrounds
- Business plan review, financial projections, marketing strategy
- Ongoing mentoring relationship — not just one session
Find a mentor at score.org →
22 SBA-funded centers nationwide (plus online services) specifically serving veteran entrepreneurs. Full-service counseling from business startup through growth and federal contracting.
- Business plan development and review
- Financial projections and loan preparation
- Federal contracting and procurement counseling
- Transition Assistance Program (TAP) business track
- Pre-business workshops and feasibility analysis
Find your VBOC at sba.gov/vboc →
Franchise Opportunities — VetFran Program
The International Franchise Association's VetFran program has helped thousands of veterans become franchise owners. Over 650 franchise brands offer special discounts to veterans through the program.
7-Eleven
Up to $25,000
Discount on initial franchise fee
UPS Store
$10,000 off
Reduced franchise fee for veterans
Great Clips
Reduced fees
Discounted franchise fee + training support
Jiffy Lube
Reduced fee
Veteran franchise discount program
+650 more
VetFran
Search all brands at vetfran.org
SBA 7(a) loans can be used to fund franchise purchases. Many franchise brands on the SBA Franchise Directory have pre-approved loan terms, making funding faster and easier.
Search VetFran franchise directory →
Quick Comparison — All Programs
| Program |
Amount |
Time to Fund |
Best For |
| Boots to Business |
Free training |
Immediate enrollment |
Transitioning service members, aspiring entrepreneurs |
| SBA 7(a) Veteran Advantage |
Up to $5 million |
30–90 days |
Established businesses needing capital for growth or acquisition |
| SBA Express |
Up to $500,000 |
2–4 weeks |
Businesses needing quick financing with smaller loan amounts |
| SBA Microloan |
Up to $50,000 |
2–6 weeks |
Startups, early-stage businesses, limited credit history |
| SCORE Mentoring |
Free |
Days to match |
All stages — planning through growth |
| VBOC Counseling |
Free |
Immediate |
Veteran entrepreneurs at all stages including federal contracting |
| VetFran Franchises |
Varies by brand |
60–120 days |
Veterans wanting proven business models with veteran discounts |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a business plan to apply for SBA financing?
For most SBA loans, you will need some form of business plan or financial projections — especially for startups. For existing businesses, 2–3 years of financial statements often substitute. SBA microloans (under $50K) have lighter requirements. The SBA's SCORE program and VBOCs offer free help writing business plans before you apply.
Can I use SBA loans to buy a franchise?
Yes. SBA 7(a) loans are commonly used to buy franchises. The franchise must be on the SBA Franchise Directory. Many franchises popular with veterans — including 7-Eleven, UPS Store, and Jiffy Lube — are pre-approved. Veterans also receive special franchise discounts through the VetFran program.
Are there grants (free money) for veteran businesses?
Direct federal grants for veteran-owned businesses are limited, but options exist: SBIR/STTR grants for technology businesses, state-level veteran business grants (varies by state), and private foundation grants through organizations like the StreetShares Foundation. The SBA itself does not offer direct business grants, but its programs significantly reduce borrowing costs.
What credit score do I need for SBA financing?
SBA 7(a) loans typically require a minimum personal credit score of 640–680. SBA microloans through nonprofit lenders may accept lower scores with a strong business plan. SBA Express loans generally require 640+. The SBA evaluates the full picture: credit history, business cash flow, collateral, and business experience.
More VA benefits you may be missing
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