November is National Veterans and Military Families Month, a time to recognize the service, contributions, and sacrifices of military members, veterans, and their families. During this month, National Veterans Small Business Week (November 9 – 13) highlights the impact of veteran entrepreneurs and the businesses they build. This year’s theme, “Honoring Veteran-Owned, American Made,” recognizes the role veteran-owned businesses play in strengthening the economy, creating jobs, and supporting communities.
Resources to Start and Grow a Business
In Maryland, veteran entrepreneurs looking to start, grow, or expand their businesses have access to a variety of business resources, from financing and tax incentives to government contracting and entrepreneurship training.
The Maryland Department of Commerce’s Military Personnel and Veteran-Owned Small Business Loan Program offers eligible small businesses no-interest loans ranging from $1,000 to $100,000. The program accepts applications during designated funding periods, and businesses can contact Commerce for information about future application rounds.
Maryland also offers tax incentives to encourage business growth and job creation. Through the Job Creation Tax Credit, eligible businesses that create new full-time jobs may qualify for state income tax credits, including incentives for qualifying small businesses that hire veterans.
Maryland Business Express also provides several valuable programs for veteran-owned businesses and businesses that hire veterans, as well as federal resources available to help navigate business ownership.
Explore Contracting and Business Development Opportunities
For businesses looking to grow or reach new customers, government contracting can open the door to new opportunities for veteran entrepreneurs. Maryland’s Veteran-Owned Small Business Enterprise (VSBE) Program helps eligible veteran-owned businesses compete for state contracts. Businesses can register through eMaryland Marketplace Advantage, the state’s online procurement platform, and explore certification requirements through the Governor’s Office of Small, Minority & Women Business Affairs.
Building a successful business is also about developing relationships, receiving the right business training, and building a strong professional network. Organizations such as Project Opportunity offer entrepreneurship training for veterans, while the Maryland Veterans Chamber of Commerce connects veteran business owners and supports the veteran business community.
Veteran entrepreneurs can also tap into available federal resources. The U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of Veterans Business Development provides information about business training, financing, and contracting opportunities.
Supporting Maryland’s Veteran-Owned Businesses
National Veterans Small Business Week is an opportunity to recognize the veteran entrepreneurs who are building businesses, creating jobs, supporting veterans, and strengthening communities. Maryland residents and organizations can also show their support by choosing veteran-owned businesses for products and services. The Veteran Owned Business directory allows visitors to search Maryland businesses by county, location, and industry, making it easier to discover and support veteran entrepreneurs throughout the state.
For veterans ready to take the next step in business, Maryland is here to help. Whether you are preparing to launch a business or looking to expand, explore Maryland Business Express’ veteran-owned business resources to find the programs and support to move your business forward.
