Growth Opportunities Expand Veteran-Owned Business Impact

BY: SBA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator John Fleming

As we enter the Memorial Day weekend, we take pause to honor the ultimate sacrifice far too many brave men and women made for the safety and security of the United States of America and our allies. As a veteran myself, I know that those who do return home, whether in times of war or peace, have also sacrificed a great deal in support of the American Way.

Abraham Lincoln said it best, “Honor to the soldier and sailor everywhere, who bravely bears his country's cause. Honor, also, to the citizen who cares for his brother in the field and serves, as he best can, the same cause.”

The Department of Defense cares for our troops while they serve, and the Department of Veterans Affairs leads a whole of government approach to support them after. Some may be surprised to learn the U.S. Small Business Administration is part of this community of support by helping active-duty men and women, veterans, and their spouses succeed as entrepreneurs through special programming and access to capital and markets.

Supporting vetrepreneurs isn’t just good for veterans; it’s good for our economy. There are 2.5 million veteran-owned businesses in the U.S.  Despite the fact the majority of these firms are small (99.9%), they have a huge impact on our economy – nearly 380,000 veteran small business owners are creating jobs by employing 4.2 million people and paying $182 billion in total annual payroll. That’s an average of 11 employees per veteran-owned small employer.

If you are a veteran, or have veterans in your life, check out the SBA’s robust outreach network of Veterans Business Outreach Centers, District Field Offices, and resource partners offering counseling, training, mentorship, and assistance. 

We’re also currently administering the Biden-Harris Administration’s Community Navigator Pilot Program, an American Rescue Plan initiative designed to reduce barriers all small businesses, including those owned by disadvantaged groups such as veterans, women, and those from rural communities and communities of color, face in accessing critical support. The program will provide $100 million in funding to 51 organizations ("hubs") to work with over 400 local community groups ("spokes") to connect America's entrepreneurs to federal, state, and local resources so they can recover and thrive.

Vets may also be interested in our quarterly Interagency Task Force on Veterans Small Business Development and our Advisory Committee on Veterans Business Affairs meetings to be held Jun 1^st and 2^nd. These meetings are vital for the SBA to gain a greater understanding of the current state of veteran-owned small businesses and how to best serve them. Presentations and minutes will be available after both meetings at www.sba.gov/ovbd under the "Federal Advisory Committees" section. 

May was a very busy month, both in the district and in Washington, DC. 

I held a district-wide telephone town hall where I was able to connect with constituents and answer questions. I was also pleased to be joined by State Senator McClellan who provided updates on the General Assembly. Speaking with voters is one of the most important parts of my job and I was happy hear from you all during this tele-town hall.

My office also hosted several Mobile McEachins in May. During these meetings, my staff was able to connect with constituents in person to help them with issues regarding federal agencies. If you were unable to attend but are looking for help from my office, you can visit my website to begin the process.

This month, my team is hosting another Mobile McEachin in Hopewell on Thursday, June 30^th from 11AM to 2PM in Hopewell at the Appomattox Regional Library- Hopewell Branch (209 East Cawson St in Hopewell, 23860).

Please RSVP here to make an appointment.

I also participated in several climate related events, including one with the Virginia League of Conservation Voters to discuss the future of electric vehicles through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal. I also attended an event hosted by the Choose Clean Water where I was honored as a 2022 Clean Water Champion.

As the impacts of climate change accelerate, I will continue to dedicate my work to preserving our planet, and ensure all Virginians live in a healthy environment free of chemical hazards and pollution. We have a responsibility to leave a livable earth for future generations.

Finally, I am eager to attend your events around the district. If you have something that you would like myself or a member of my staff to attend, please fill out this form.