The transition from military life to a civilian career can often feel like starting from scratch. However, many veterans hone their leadership, discipline, mission focus, and adherence to systems skills through years of leadership. These skills are a perfect blueprint for entrepreneurial success, particularly within the world of franchising.
If you’ve considered starting your own business but worry about the initial uncertainty, the franchise model offers a structured, proven path where your military experience truly shines.
The Successful Combination of Military Veterans and Franchising - The ability of military veterans to follow directions precisely and efficiently often translates to a successful match with franchising. - Approximately 1 in 7 franchise owners is a military veteran, despite veterans making up less than 6% of the general U.S. population. - Per a VetFran survey, 97% of franchisors reported that veterans make excellent franchisees. - Because of the successful correlation, many in the industry offer powerful financial incentives to ease this transition. - Popular franchise sectors with a significant number of veteran-owned franchises include home services, automotive services, B2B services, and more. |
Why Veterans Choose Franchising
The franchise community has long recognized the value of military experience. In fact, veterans are nearly three times more likely to own a franchise than their non-veteran counterparts. Approximately one in seven franchise owners is a veteran, despite veterans making up less than 6% of the U.S. population. This is a powerful testament to the successful fit.
Furthermore, franchisors actively seek out veterans because they know these skills translate to success. A VetFran survey found that an astounding 97% of franchisors reported that veterans make excellent franchisees.
Applying the Military Mindset in Franchising
A franchise is, at its core, a highly effective, repeatable business system. It thrives on clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), a defined chain of command (franchisor-franchisee relationship), and rigorous adherence to a well-defined operational plan. In the military, following protocol is non-negotiable. In franchising, this translates directly to profitability. Franchisors provide a proven playbook; veterans are masters at executing directions precisely and efficiently. This cuts down on falling to the common pitfalls of starting an independent business.
Franchise ownership requires you to lead employees, manage budgets, and make quick, smart decisions daily. Your ability to inspire a team toward a common goal is a huge asset. Military service instills an unwavering commitment to completing the mission. For a franchisee, the mission is to deliver consistent quality and exceptional customer experience. This focus ensures brand integrity and customer loyalty.
Many veterans have led teams, managed critical assets, and made high-stakes decisions under pressure. Veterans are adept at accomplishing tasks with limited resources, whether personnel, time, or equipment. This skill is critical for controlling costs, managing inventory, and maximizing efficiency in any business.
Leveraging Veteran-Specific Incentives and Funding
One of the biggest hurdles to business ownership is capital. Recognizing the quality of veteran candidates, the industry and the government offer powerful financial incentives to ease this transition.
1. The VetFran Program
The VetFran Program, run by the IFA (International Franchise Association), is a voluntary effort by franchisor member companies to offer financial incentives to honorably discharged veterans. Today, over 600 franchise systems participate in this program.
These incentives most commonly take the form of substantial discounts on the initial franchise fee, often ranging from 10% up to 50%. For a veteran investing in a brand with a typical franchise fee of $35,000 to $50,000, a 20% to 50% discount can result in immediate savings of thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars from the outset.
Franchises and Business Opportunities for Veterans
Cruise Planners
Join the #1 travel agency franchise. Our affordable franchise is for every lifestyle. Start your journey today.
Expedia Cruises
Build equity and enjoy a great lifestyle with our proven franchise model with 35 years of success.
Home Helpers® Home Care
Be In the Business of Care. Join our leading in-home care franchise that's both rewarding and meaningful. Fulfill your passion with us today.
2. Specialized SBA Loans
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers specialized loan programs designed to provide favorable terms for veteran entrepreneurs:
- SBA 7(a) Loans: This is the most common and flexible loan program. For veterans, the SBA offers the Veterans Advantage program, which may waive or reduce the upfront guaranty fee, lowering the overall cost of the loan and streamlining the approval process.
- SBA Express Loans: These offer an accelerated review process and are ideal for veterans seeking smaller amounts of capital quickly.
These SBA-approved franchises make it easier to secure startup funding compared to starting a new concept from scratch as a civilian.
Choosing the Right Industry as a Military Vet
Your military background provides the tools for success, but selecting the right fit is still crucial. Veterans thrive in franchises where systems, logistics, and accountability are paramount. Popular veteran-owned sectors include:
- Home Services Franchises: Plumbing, HVAC, and property maintenance (where project management and scheduling are vital).
- Automotive Services: Oil changes, repair, and maintenance shops (where clear SOPs and logistics are key).
- B2B Services: Staffing, printing/shipping, and consulting (where communication and client relations built on trust are critical).
Ultimately, your success as a veteran franchisee is a continuation of the success you achieved in uniform. You already have the core skills. The franchise provides the proven system, and the industry provides the incentives. Take advantage of the resources, embrace the structure, and get ready to lead your next mission of franchise ownership.
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Kimberly Crossland is a copywriter, content strategist, and creator. Her goal is to inspire meaningful change through a strategic and thoughtful approach to life and business. In her free time, you can find her homeschooling her kids or on the road looking for a new adventure together with her boys.