From Service to Startups: Expanding Capital for Veteran-Led Businesses

Veterans bring mission-driven leadership, technical expertise, and strong risk‑management skills to starting and growing a company. Entrepreneurship offers a powerful route to economic mobility, community connection, and meaningful post-service careers. However, limited access to capital, financial literacy gaps, and challenges in building professional networks continue to hold veteran entrepreneurs back. In a recent national survey, 37 percent of veteran entrepreneurs reported difficulty accessing capital. This panel will explore how expanding access to capital—alongside mentorship, networks, and financial education—can unlock meaningful economic opportunity for veterans and strengthen the broader veteran community. Panelists will examine current gaps in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, the long-term impact of strengthening veteran-led businesses, and actionable strategies for building an inclusive, well-capitalized pipeline of veteran entrepreneurs.