VA Small Business Loans (SBA Veteran Programs)
SBA offers fee-waived loans, grants, and mentorship programs exclusively for veteran-owned businesses.
Who qualifies: Veterans, Active duty, National Guard, Veterans with a service-connected disability.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) provides veteran entrepreneurs with preferential access to capital:
SBA Veterans Advantage Loans:
• Upfront guarantee fees waived for veteran-owned businesses on SBA 7(a) loans under $150,000
• Reduced fees on larger loans
• Loans of $500 to $5 million for working capital, equipment, real estate
SBA Express for Veterans:
• Streamlined, faster approval
• Up to $500,000
• 36-hour SBA turnaround commitment
VA Vocational Rehabilitation (VR&E) Self-Employment Track:
• For service-connected disabled veterans
• Covers startup costs, equipment, training, and licensing
Boots to Business (DoD/SBA):
• Free entrepreneurship training for transitioning service members
• Available on military installations worldwide
VBOC (Veterans Business Outreach Centers):
• Free business training, counseling, and mentorship
• 22 locations nationwide
• Free business plan development, market analysis
NAICS codes for Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (VOSB) receive set-aside contracts from federal government.