So You're a Veteran-Owned Business. Now What?
A Starting Place for Veterans
I get calls from veterans who have a business and want to know, "How can I do business with the government?". The business support world can feel wide open, and it's important to know exactly where to focus your energy. When you're a veteran with a business, there are specific steps you need to take and resources available just for you.
If you're wondering what to do next, here are a couple of key starting points.
Get Your Numbers in Order: The Dun & Bradstreet
Before you can seriously pursue many opportunities, especially with the government, there's a crucial number you need to get. It's your Dun & Bradstreet number, also known as a D-U-N-S number. This is a unique identifier for your business that is often required for contracts and other official programs. I have helped veterans get this number, and it's an essential first step to getting your business properly established.
Connect with the Right People and Resources
Once you have your business fundamentals in place, the next step is knowing who to talk to. You don't have to figure it all out on your own. There are organizations specifically designed to help you, and a big part of what I do is get veterans connected with them, like the VBA. Getting in touch with the right resources can open doors and provide you with the specific guidance you need as a veteran entrepreneur.
It Starts with Asking the Question
Every veteran-owned business is unique. The support you need might be different from someone else's. My role as a consultant is to be a starting place for all of those "Veteran-owned business questions" you might have. Whether you need help with a specific number or a general strategy, the most important thing is to ask for help.
Find Your Next Step
Running a business comes with its own set of challenges. As a veteran, you have a unique advantage and specific resources available to you. If you have a business and aren't sure what to do next, contact us. We can begin with a no-cost initial assessment to help you find your path forward.