From service to success: How VetFran helps Veterans build businesses

Finding the next mission can be challenging for Veterans at every stage of life, whether it’s pursuing a new professional chapter or seeking a renewed sense of purpose. VetFran, a program launched by the International Franchise Association 35 years ago, is uniquely positioned to help Veterans and military families explore franchise ownership and career opportunities that build on the skills they developed while serving.

Through a network of more than 500 franchise brands, VetFran connects Veterans with financial incentives, training, mentorship and business resources. Every participating brand provides a Veteran incentive, typically a discount on the initial franchise fee. Those discounts commonly range from 10% to 50%, with some VetFran brands waiving their fee entirely, helping reduce the upfront cost of entering a franchise system.

A strong fit for Veterans

Franchising can be a natural fit for Veterans, as they are accustomed to pursuing a mission, managing responsibilities and making decisions under changing conditions—the same qualities that help them lead teams, serve customers and grow a business.

Veterans already have a meaningful presence in franchising. Although they represent about 7% of the U.S. population, they own more than 14% of franchise businesses, or roughly one in every seven franchises. Veteran-owned franchises also benefit the communities they serve by creating jobs, supporting local economies and providing a way to continue leading close to home.

Franchising also creates employment opportunities for Veterans beyond business ownership. Seventy percent of franchise companies actively recruit and hire Veterans, and 99% of franchise leaders agree that Veterans excel as both corporate employees and franchisees.

Lowering barriers to ownership

Starting any business requires careful planning, capital and commitment. Entrepreneurs must develop their own product or service, create operating systems, build a customer base, hire employees and secure financing. A franchise does not eliminate those responsibilities, but it can reduce uncertainty by lowering the cost of getting started and offering a tested business model, established operating procedures and support from an experienced brand.

In 2024, VetFran incentives helped 877 Veterans launch franchise businesses, saving them more than $7.8 million in franchise fees.

Building a stronger transition support network

Business ownership is rarely a solo effort. Veterans exploring franchising may benefit from education, financing guidance, mentors and peer networks, particularly from people who understand both military service and the realities of starting or operating a business.

VetFran works with Veteran service organizations such as ZeroMils, 51 Vets, MOAA and The Rosie Network, along with Navy Federal Credit Union and other military-community partners. Through these relationships, Veterans can connect with training, entrepreneurship education, business-planning resources, networking opportunities, and communities of fellow Veterans and military families who are navigating similar career and business decisions. Financial-sector partners can also help Veterans better understand financing considerations and prepare for the capital needs associated with franchise ownership.

Many Veterans start a business or franchise while using VA education and employment benefits. Depending on eligibility and program requirements, resources such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill, Veteran Readiness and Employment, and VA entrepreneurship resources may support education, career planning and entrepreneurial training.

Explore your next mission

Franchise ownership is not right for everyone, and Veterans should do thorough research before investing. But Veterans and military-connected families don’t have to navigate franchise opportunities alone.

Visit the International Franchise Association’s VetFran page to explore Veteran-friendly franchise opportunities, learn about available incentives, access educational resources and connect with a community dedicated to helping military experience translate into business success.