Empowering Women Veteran Entrepreneurs
The Small Business Administration (SBA) is taking a significant step towards empowering women veteran entrepreneurs through its Office of Veterans Business Development.
In an exciting move, the office is offering grants of up to $300,000 to six exceptional women veteran business owners or aspiring entrepreneurs.
A Lifeline for Women Veteran Entrepreneurs
Timothy Green, acting associate administrator for the SBA’s Office of Veterans Business Development, highlighted the importance of this initiative, saying:
“With more than two million women veterans living in the U.S. today and over 12 million businesses owned by women, there is an incredible need for more advocates and resources tailored to women veteran entrepreneurs.”
The Women Veteran Entrepreneurship Training Program aims to provide much-needed support to women veterans who face challenges in securing capital and gaining ownership experience when starting or expanding their businesses.
Boosting Success Through Education and Funding
Comprehensive Training and Mentorship
The program not only offers financial assistance but also provides valuable training and mentorship opportunities. Last year alone, more than 9,500 participants benefited from the guidance and resources offered by the Women Veteran Training Program grantees.
Green emphasized the program’s mission, stating:
“Through our Women Veteran Entrepreneurship Training Program, we are providing grants that train and empower women veterans as they take their next step with their business— whether that is taking the leap to open their doors or exploring new ways to grow what they’ve successfully built.”
Success Stories Inspire Confidence
One such success story is Kristen Wright, owner of Kristen Wright Strategic Communications LLC in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Wright connected with ONABEN, an SBA Women Veteran Entrepreneurship Training program grantee, through the “Beyond the Boots” program.
The training she received was instrumental in educating her on the federal bidding process, enabling her to scale her business and compete for federal contracts successfully.
With this initiative, the SBA aims to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for women veteran entrepreneurs, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the business landscape and communities nationwide.
