Colorado Springs now offers resources and opportunities for veterans and active duty military members who want to start their own business. A $3.5 million grant from the Federal Small Business Administration will be administered through the Mount Carmel Veterans Services Center. This program provides a tremendous contribution to the state of Colorado as a whole, and it is important because one of the toughest decisions for active duty and veterans is deciding what to do after serving the nation.
Currently, classes are being held at military installations across the state, including Space Force Base Peterson. These classes are part of the Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) and are designed to help those considering small business startups get headed in the right direction. The curriculum covers understanding what’s out there, the business need, and how to make it happen.
Mount Carmel is located in the heart of Colorado, making it an obvious choice to run this program. John Dix, an Air Force veteran and small business owner, supports this initiative and wishes something like the Veterans Affairs Business Outreach Center had been available when he first retired.
Colorado is now one of 28 states that offer these services, and Mount Carmel is a natural choice to run as it has all of the services already provided. The new business launch program is on track and will help entrepreneurs develop business plans, learn about business feasibility studies, and gain access to loans and grants.
Paul Price highlights the importance of collaboration between the local military community and the small business community. If you are interested in participating in this program, simply contact the Mount Carmel Veterans Center or visit their website.