Every November 11th, we pause as a nation to honor the brave men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Veterans Day began as Armistice Day in 1919, marking the end of World War I and celebrating peace. Over time, it evolved to recognize all who have worn the uniform — honoring their courage, discipline, and sacrifice in defending our freedoms.
But Veterans Day is more than remembrance — it’s also a celebration of the ways veterans continue to serve, lead, and inspire. One of the most powerful examples of that ongoing mission can be seen in entrepreneurship.
Veterans have long played a vital role in shaping the American small business landscape. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), nearly one in ten small businesses in the U.S. is veteran-owned. That’s over 2 million businesses, collectively employing more than 5 million Americans and generating hundreds of billions in revenue every year.
Why do so many veterans excel as business owners? Because the same qualities that define great service members—leadership, adaptability, and mission focus—also define great entrepreneurs.
Leadership under pressure – making smart, steady decisions in uncertain times.
Mission-first mindset – staying committed to long-term goals, not quick wins.
Teamwork and trust – motivating people toward a shared purpose.
Discipline and integrity – doing the right thing, even when it’s not the easy thing.
These values don’t disappear when military service ends—they evolve into the backbone of successful businesses and resilient communities.
The franchise industry, in particular, has become a powerful path for veterans to transition from service to entrepreneurship. Franchises offer a structured model, proven systems, and support networks—things that align naturally with military training.
According to the International Franchise Association (IFA), veterans own more than 14% of all franchise businesses in the United States—nearly double their share of the general population. From food and hospitality to logistics and home services, veteran franchisees are leading with operational excellence and community focus.
Programs like VetFran, founded after the Gulf War, have made it easier for veterans to access franchise ownership by providing discounts, mentorship, and education. This growing movement proves that for many veterans, the mission simply continues—just under a different banner.
For those ready to build their next chapter, veterans have access to a range of resources designed to help them start or grow a business:
SBA Veterans Advantage Loans – Reduced fees and flexible terms to make small business financing more accessible.
Boots to Business Program – Entrepreneurial training and mentorship for transitioning service members and spouses.
Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) – Guidance and resources for veterans with service-connected disabilities who are exploring business ownership.
Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Program (SDVOSB) – Federal contracting opportunities designed to help veteran-owned businesses grow.
These programs, combined with modern funding solutions like AI-powered financing platforms and consultative lending partnerships, give veterans an opportunity to transform leadership into legacy.
Veterans bring more than skills to the business world—they bring purpose. Whether launching a new venture, running a franchise, or creating local jobs, their mission-driven mindset turns challenges into opportunities.
At Lendzee, we’re honored to work alongside these leaders—helping veterans and small business owners access the capital and confidence they need to grow. Our commitment is to make funding simple, transparent, and empowering, so more veterans can focus on what matters most: building businesses that strengthen communities and create opportunity.
To all veterans: thank you for your courage, your leadership, and your continued service to our nation. Your impact is felt not only in our country’s defense, but in the communities and businesses you help build every day.
From all of us at Lendzee — thank you for your service, and for inspiring the next generation of small business leaders. 🇺🇸