Winning Battles for VETPRENEURS

The first part of a series on the winning battles for veteran entrepreneurs is presented. Many veterans are exploring business opportunities as a means of self-sufficiency and economic development in their homeland. Veterans of all ethnicities own 2.4 million businesses, generating total sales of $1.2 trillion and paying 5.8 million employees. After fighting for their country in Iraq and Afghanistan, many are now learning how to access capital and contracts. Succeeding in business, though, is not unlike winning in battle. Both require courage, leadership, strategic planning, decision-making, teamwork, resourcefulness, and endurance. Former service members may find a US marketplace in turmoil, but their military experience gives them a competitive edge for starting or expanding a business -- and stateside programs are there to help. Marylyn Harris, vice chairman of the Advisory Committee on Veterans Business Affairs, believes that entrepreneurship is a viable career alternative for veterans, especially those who have post-traumatic stress disorder.