🪖 From Service to CEO: How Veterans Can Launch a Small Business Online

You’ve led teams, solved problems under pressure, and adapted in the most unpredictable environments on Earth. So guess what? You’re already more prepared than most to start an online business.

You don’t need an MBA or a Silicon Valley investor. You just need a laptop, a game plan, and that military grit you’ve already got in spades.

Here’s how to get started—step by step, no fluff.

Step 1: Find Your Mission (AKA Your Business Idea)

Don’t overthink it. Start by asking:

What do people always ask you for help with?

What skills did you develop in the military?

What could you talk about for hours (and not get bored)?

What problems do you know how to solve?

Hot Online Business Ideas for Veterans:

E-commerce store (sell gear, shirts, coffee, or custom merch)

Consulting or coaching (leadership, security, fitness, resume writing)

Online courses or training (turn your knowledge into video lessons)

Freelancing (writing, web design, digital marketing, etc.)

YouTube channel or podcast (build a brand, monetize later)

Affiliate marketing or dropshipping (low startup costs)

Step 2: Set Up Your Digital HQ

This is the fun part—building your online storefront.

Here’s what you need:

A website: Use platforms like Wix, Squarespace, or WordPress

A domain name: Something easy to remember (like yourbrand.com)

A business email: Looks way more professional than a Gmail

Basic branding: Logo, colors, and a simple design go a long way

Bonus: Some veteran programs offer free web tools or even site-building help (like Bunker Labs or SBA’s VBOC).

Step 3: Handle the Biz Side (But Keep It Simple)

Don’t get overwhelmed by the red tape. Here’s what you’ll need to make it official:

Register your business (LLC, sole prop—depends on your state)

Apply for an EIN (free through IRS.gov)

Set up a business bank account (keeps things clean)

Look into veteran business certifications (helps with contracts and visibility)

Heads up: Some states waive fees or offer support for veteran-owned businesses. Definitely worth checking out.

Step 4: Market Like You Mean It

Marketing doesn’t mean being pushy—it means sharing your story, showing value, and helping people find you.

Start with:

Social media: Pick 1–2 platforms where your audience hangs out

Email list: Start collecting emails early (use Mailchimp or ConvertKit)

Content: Blog posts, YouTube videos, social posts—whatever feels natural

Veteran networks: Leverage LinkedIn, veteran Facebook groups, and directories

Remember: Your military story is part of your brand. People love to support veteran-owned businesses—they just need to know you exist.

Step 5: Learn, Adjust, Repeat

The first version of your business won’t be perfect. That’s okay.

Every mission gets intel. Every intel changes the plan. Same goes for business.

Keep learning:

YouTube & podcasts for free tutorials

Veteran-focused incubators like Bunker Labs or VetToCEO

SCORE.org or SBA.gov for mentorship

Ask for feedback. Tweak what isn’t working. Celebrate small wins.

Starting an online business as a veteran isn’t just possible—it’s powerful. You’ve already got the discipline, the leadership, and the mindset. Now it’s just about aiming your skills in a new direction.

So whether you want a side hustle or a full-on digital empire, know this:

You don’t need permission to build your next mission.

You’ve already served. Now it’s time to lead in a whole new way—as a veteran, as a business owner, and as your own boss.

Read more articles for the Veteran Community here.