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As a veteran in the world of entrepreneurship, navigating the business landscape can be daunting. However, with the support and resources provided by the Utah Veteran Business Resource Center (Utah VBRC), veterans can find pathways to success in their entrepreneurial endeavors. Explore the top ten invaluable benefits that veteran entrepreneurs receive when working with the Utah VBRC. These advantages empower veterans to leverage their unique skills and experiences and translate them into the business world.

 

“Your Service Paid For Our Service”:

The Utah VBRC’s mission is to support the needs of entrepreneurial veterans, active duty, reserve, national guard, and spouses throughout the State of Utah. Because “your service paid for our service”, we do not charge for the business advising services we provide.

 

Tailored Business Advising Sessions:

The Utah VBRC offers personalized business advising sessions that connect veteran entrepreneurs with experienced business professionals. These business counselors provide practical business advice and support on research, traditional & social media marketing, financial controls, and other issues tailored to the specific needs of each veteran entrepreneur. Having a business counselor who “has been there” and understands the challenges in today’s economic climate can be invaluable in building a veteran-owned business.

 

Preparing to Look for Access to Capital:

Securing funding remains one of the most significant hurdles for entrepreneurs. The Utah VBRC can provide information on becoming bankable and preparing to secure various funding options available to veteran entrepreneurs, including grants, loans, capital investment, and other financial resources. By learning how to leverage these opportunities, veterans can better navigate through potential financial constraints.

 

Networking Opportunities:

Building a strong professional network is crucial for any entrepreneur. The Utah VBRC organizes events & workshops and hosts an annual conference that allow veteran entrepreneurs to connect with like-minded individuals, industry experts, and potential partners or investors. These connections can lead to future growth opportunities for their businesses.

 

Business Development Workshops and Classes:

The Utah VBRC hosts the Startup Training Resources to Inspire Veteran Entrepreneurs (STRIVE) Program course in partnership with Syracuse University’s Institute for Veterans and Military Families. This course covers various topics, including business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and legal considerations. The Utah VBRC also hosts the Social Media Marketing Bootcamp for Veterans, a full-day workshop that immerses the entrepreneur into establishing a social media marketing plan they can use to propel their business forward.

 

Access to Expert Resources:

The Utah VBRC provides veteran entrepreneurs with access to a vast array of resources and tools as they work with their business advisor. Navigating through the maze of these resources empowers veterans to make informed decisions and overcome challenges at every stage of their entrepreneurial journey.

 

Government Contracting Assistance:

The UTAH VBRC helps veteran entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of government contracting with the assistance of the Utah APEX Accelerators. Through this connection, one-on-one counseling, and assistance in obtaining certifications, veterans can learn how to take advantage of government contracting opportunities, which can provide a steady stream of revenue and stability for their businesses.

 

Marketing and Branding Support:

Establishing a strong brand and effective marketing strategies are vital for business success. The Utah VBRC assists veteran entrepreneurs in developing compelling marketing campaigns, optimizing their online presence, and crafting engaging brand messaging. This support enables veterans to effectively reach their target audience and differentiate themselves in the market.

 

Access to Professional Services:

The Utah VBRC collaborates with professional service providers, such as legal, accounting, and marketing firms. This access to professional services helps veterans build their network of trusted professionals, giving their businesses a competitive advantage.

 

Continued Support and Community:

Beyond the initial startup phase, the Utah VBRC remains a reliable source of support for veteran entrepreneurs. The center fosters a strong community of veteran-owned businesses, creating opportunities for collaboration, shared experiences, and ongoing mentorship. This sense of belonging and camaraderie provides veterans with a support system that understands their unique journey and challenges.