Transitioning from military service to civilian work can be daunting, especially when the corporate world feels like unfamiliar territory. Yet, staying still after service can be just as challenging. At Neighborly®, we recognize the unique strengths and potential that Veterans bring.
We help empower you to channel your discipline and leadership into owning an ideal franchise business. If the idea of leading your own business with the guidance and support from a proven business model excites you, then the insights from our Veteran business owners are just what you need.
5 Tips for Veterans Starting a Business
As you transition from military service to civilian life, embarking on the path to franchise ownership opens up a world of exciting possibilities. Here are five invaluable tips from fellow Veteran business owners who have successfully navigated the journey of starting a business after military service.
1. Identify What’s Important to You Before Starting a Business
Before diving into a new business venture, outline your motivations and goals. This ensures you clearly understand what you aim to achieve in this new chapter of your life. Knowing what fuels your ambition is crucial, whether it's the freedom to build your legacy, the drive to make a significant impact, or the pursuit of finding community.
Eric Saddler, a former Chopper Pilot and now a proud Molly Maid® franchise owner in West Chester, OH, reflects on his journey:
“What’s really important to me is servant leadership. I never wanted to be fired again. So, I started digging into ‘who am I,’ ‘what do I want,’ ‘what do I need,’ ‘what are my skills,’ and ‘what are my weaknesses.’”
This introspection can help ensure your business aligns perfectly with your personal and professional aspirations.
2. Business Is Better if You Use Your Military Skills
The skills and discipline you worked so hard to develop throughout your military career are invaluable assets in the business world. Leadership, strategic planning, and the ability to perform under pressure give you a distinct advantage as a business owner. Many of our Veteran franchise owners have found that they didn’t have any issues transferring their skills into their roles by utilizing their military skills to enhance business operations and team management.
Alicia Garcia, U.S. Army Veteran and owner of Real Property Management First Class in San Antonio, TX, confirms:
“The [military] skills are 100% transferable. What I usually say is if you enjoy being a platoon leader or platoon Sergeant or in that leadership role where you're responsible for the development of your team and for accomplishing goals and setting high goals, then that's everything you need to be a business owner.”
3. Consider the Best Franchise for Veterans
Franchising offers a structured yet flexible path to business ownership that connects well with many Veterans’ backgrounds. This model provides the autonomy of running your own business with the added benefits of an established framework and support system, reducing the uncertainty often accompanying solo start-ups. When you become a new franchise owner, you can make the calls and receive a structure that makes transitioning from Veteran to business owner less stressful. You are part of a team—just like you were throughout your military service.
Aaron Prupas, a former U.S. Air Force Major General and current Dryer Vent Wizard® franchise owner in Colorado Springs, CO, chose franchising for its familial structure:
“The main reason I left the Air Force when I did was for my family. It just seemed to make sense to grab a concept that has already been successful and be able to leverage the strengths from those businesses that I didn't have. And so, that was probably the main reason why I decided to go down the franchise path.”
4. Stay True to Your Core Values
Navigating the complexities of business ownership does not mean you have to compromise on your core values. Many Veterans find that franchising allows them to maintain the integrity and ethical standards they uphold while in the military.
Jeff Baker, U.S. Air Force Veteran and owner of The Grounds Guys® of Wichita chose to partner with a franchise that resonated with his values, stating:
“Because when you come from military and law enforcement, having a company that you can franchise with requires uniforms, some structure, and has an ethical statement that says, ‘Hey, We try to do business above the line, we care about each other; that was important to me. That was probably one of the biggest catalysts to doing it—their code of values.”
5. If You Become a Franchise Owner, Take Advantage of the Support
Everyone knows that Veterans can make excellent franchise owners. Teamwork is at your core, and that doesn’t stop when you choose to invest in a franchise with a proven business model and known brand. Make sure you take advantage of the extensive support systems, including training, marketing, and operational guidance, to help you succeed.
Joshua Ghiloni, U.S. Air Force Veteran and owner of The Grounds Guys of Lexington, SC, appreciates this support, saying:
“The great thing about this is you have the support around you, not only with your coaches but also with your fellow owners who have all been in the same position I am right now. You can start a business, but you also got a team behind you.”
Taking the Mission: Neighborly Franchise Opportunities for Veterans
At Neighborly, we take pride in supporting our Veterans through the Veterans Transition Franchise Initiative (VetFran® Program). Since 2003, more than 750 veterans have become business owners with Neighborly and have received more than $5 million in discounts on their Franchise Fees. Some of the franchise opportunities for Veterans in the home service industries you can choose from include:
- Cleaning & Organization
- Windows, Glass & Doors
- Maintenance & Repair
- Professional & Specialized Service
- Outdoor
- HVAC, Electrical, and Plumbing
Support No Matter What
You're stepping into a mutual relationship when you choose to join one of our franchise brands. Each franchise comes equipped with a proven business model, comprehensive training, and support so your business starts on solid ground. Remember, when you invest in us, we invest in you. That’s simply how we do business.
Learn More About How to Start a Franchise Business as a Veteran
Leading a successful business requires courage, resilience, and support—qualities you’ve already demonstrated as a Veteran. If you’re ready to channel your skills into one of the best franchises for Veterans, Neighborly is here to guide you every step of the way. Learn more about how Neighborly helps Veterans become business owners.
