Free Business Training From the SBA
The Small Business Administration's Boots to Business program offers free entrepreneurship and business ownership training specifically for veterans, active duty service members, National Guard, Reserves, and military spouses.
If you're thinking about starting a business — or already running one — this program is worth knowing about.
What Is Boots to Business?
Boots to Business is a two-step entrepreneurship education program:
Step 1: Boots to Business Introduction
A 2-day entrepreneurship course offered at military installations through the TAP curriculum. Covers:
- Introduction to entrepreneurship
- Business concepts and opportunity assessment
- Overview of SBA resources
Step 2: Boots to Business: Reboot
An 8-week online course for veterans who have separated from the military. Covers:
- Business planning
- Market research
- Financial projections
- Access to capital
- Legal structures
Who Can Participate?
- Transitioning active duty service members (through TAP)
- Veterans (any era, any discharge)
- National Guard and Reserve members
- Military spouses
The program is free.
What You'll Learn
- How to evaluate your business idea
- How to write a business plan
- How to access SBA loans, including the SBA Veterans Advantage loan (reduced fees)
- How to connect with SCORE mentors (free business mentoring)
- How to find local veteran business development resources
Other SBA Resources for Veteran Entrepreneurs
- Veteran Business Outreach Centers (VBOCs): Business counseling and training centers specifically for veteran entrepreneurs. Find yours at SBA.gov/offices/headquarters/ovbd
- SCORE Mentors: Free, confidential business mentoring from experienced entrepreneurs. Many SCORE mentors are veterans themselves.
- SBA Veterans Advantage: Reduced or waived fees on SBA 7(a) and Express loans for veteran-owned businesses
Why Veteran Businesses Matter
Veteran-owned businesses employ millions of Americans and generate hundreds of billions in revenue annually. Programs like Boots to Business exist because the federal government recognizes that the leadership skills built in military service translate directly to entrepreneurship.
Take advantage of every resource available to you.