Veteran-Led Franchise Coaching

Own Your Future

with a Franchise That Fits Your Mission

Built for Veterans and their families, our proven step-by-step process gives you clear, zero-cost guidance to decide if franchise ownership is right for you and helps you discover options that fit your goals, lifestyle, and future while guiding you toward ownership.

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Step 1 – See if you qualify

Your Path to Ownership
Starts Here

Answer a few quick questions. If you qualify, you’ll schedule
a free Discovery Call with a Veteran Coach.


Veteran-Certified Coaching
1:1 Guidance at No Cost
Proven Franchise Models
From Food to Fitness to Tech
600+ Opportunities
We Help You Narrow It Down
No Experience Needed
Legal, Financial & Selection Help
Start Smart
Many Brands Under $50K Investment
From Boots to Business
We’re With You Every Step

You Don’t Have to Navigate Franchise Ownership Alone.

Our Veteran franchise coaches guide you through exploring opportunities, evaluating brands, understanding funding options, and making informed ownership decisions.

Franchise ownership can be a great path to business ownership, especially for Veterans who bring experience in leadership, teamwork, and following proven systems.

Unlike starting a business from scratch, franchising provides an established business model, comprehensive training, and ongoing support. Franchisors are looking for people who can execute their proven business plans in a local market.

As a franchise owner, you’ll have three primary responsibilities:

  1. Lead your team – Recruit, manage, and inspire employees.

  2. Manage the business – Oversee operations, finances, and resources.

  3. Represent your business – Build relationships with customers and serve your community.

You don’t have to excel at all three. Few people do. What’s important is recognizing your strengths and surrounding yourself with people who complement your skills.

Successful franchise owners typically share qualities such as leadership, self-motivation, grit, customer focus, and the ability to follow proven processes while leveraging the support of their franchisor and fellow franchisees.

Sound familiar? Many of these are the same qualities developed through military service.

But franchising isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. Our goal is to help you answer two important questions: Is franchising right for you? And if so, which franchise is the right fit?

We’ll help you explore your options, understand the risks, and make an informed decision without pressure or obligation to buy.

Not necessarily! You don’t need a business degree, previous business ownership experience, or even an idea for a startup. You do, however, need the right attributes to become a successful franchise owner, including leadership, accountability, and the ability to follow proven systems.

You also don’t need to be an expert in the industry. For example, you don’t need to be an electrician to own and operate an electrical services franchise.

Franchisors provide comprehensive training, established operating systems, and ongoing support to help you run your business. And much like the military, you’re part of a team. You’ll have a network of fellow franchise owners to lean on for advice, shared experiences, and support along the way.

Our services are 100% free.  Vetrepreneur is a Veteran-owned business and may receive referral fees from participating franchise partners which enables us to provide our services for free.  This is similar to a recruiting firm or headhunter model.  We work with approximately 600 different franchises across 15 different franchise industries and are able to add new ones on an as-needed basis.  Other entities involved in your due diligence process will obviously charge you fees if you use them, including lenders, lawyers and accountants.

Business ownership is not for everyone. In fact, it’s not for most people. Our goal is to enable you to decide if it is for you by walking you through a comprehensive, 10-step, 10-week process. You may exit the process at any point you are able to make that decision.

Our free coaching services are available to Veterans, transitioning service members, military spouses, and military-connected civilians (patriots) interested in franchise ownership.

Our coaching team includes Veterans and dedicated patriots who understand the unique strengths Veterans bring to business ownership and the challenges they may face. While we specialize in serving the military community, non-Veterans are equally welcome and benefit from the leadership, experience, and business discipline of our military-trained coaches.

To qualify for our coaching program, you should meet the following minimum requirements:

  • Credit score of 680 or higher

  • At least $20,000 in liquid capital

  • Net worth of at least $150,000

  • Planning to open a franchise within the next 12 months

  • Not residing in or planning to open a franchise in New York or Washington state

What is liquid capital? Money or assets you can readily access or convert into cash, such as savings, checking accounts, stocks, and mutual funds. Home equity is not considered liquid capital.

These requirements help ensure you’re financially prepared to explore available franchise opportunities.

Our free, 10-step coaching process guides you from exploring franchise ownership to making an informed decision about your future.

Unlike working with an individual franchise consultant, Vetrepreneur® provides a dedicated team of professionals to support you throughout your journey.

You’ll have access to:

  • Your Personal Franchise Coach – One-on-one guidance to assess your goals, identify potential franchise matches, explore funding options, and navigate due diligence.

  • Client Support Team – Additional assistance to keep you informed and moving forward throughout the process.

  • Personal Vetrepreneur® Portal – Convenient access to resources, videos, downloadables educational materials, and tools to help you navigate each step.

  • Industry Experts – Connections to funding and lending specialists, CPAs, credit specialists, and franchise attorneys when needed.

  • Franchise Network – Opportunities to connect directly with franchisors and existing franchise owners to gain firsthand insights.

There’s no obligation to purchase a franchise. Our goal is to provide the guidance, resources, and support you need to make the right decision for you.

Meet Our Franchise Coaching Team

We’ve been working with Veterans and franchising since the company was founded in 2001.  We created the National Veteran Owned Business Association in 2008 and maintain a close partnership with this venerable organization.  We created Vetrepreneur® magazine and its predecessor Veterans Business Journal in 2004. We advocated for the government to meet its service-disabled, veteran-owned small business goal.  We advocated for the passage of state laws mandating use of veterans in state contracts resulting in 28 additional states passing laws between 2006 and 2012.  We created the Buy Veteran movement in 2009 which encourages all Americans to buy products and services from veteran-owned businesses.  Finally, we created the Vetrepreneur of the Year® program in 2006.

Becoming a franchisee through the Vetrepreneur® Coaching Service gives you access to free Vetreprenur® content, discounted veteran hiring services through Military Friendly® Employer Membership, one year free full membership to Buy Veteran and eligibility to earn recognition through the local and national Vetrepreneur of the Year® and Franchise Vetrepreneur of the Year awards.

Your Discovery Call is a one-on-one conversation with an experienced franchise coach to learn more about you and your goals for business ownership.

You’ll discuss your background, interests, financial readiness, preferred lifestyle, and what you’re hoping to accomplish through franchising. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about our coaching process.

It’s a conversation, not a sales pitch. The goal is to understand your situation and determine the best next steps for exploring franchise ownership.

Finding the right franchise is about much more than choosing a brand you recognize, a product you love, or a business someone recommended.

Searching online can quickly lead you to what we call the “franchise buffet”—an overwhelming amount of information from different sources, often presented in the wrong order. Without the right guidance, it’s easy to get lost in the options.

The right franchise isn’t necessarily the most popular one. It’s the one that’s the best fit for you.

Our experienced coaches use a combination of proven assessments and industry expertise to match you with opportunities based on six important factors:

  1. Your Why – What motivates you to become a business owner?

  2. Your Fears – What concerns or risks do you want to minimize?

  3. Skills & Interests – What strengths and abilities do you bring?

  4. Lifestyle – How do you want your business to fit into your life?

  5. Geography – Where do you want to operate your business?

  6. Finances – What investment opportunities align with your resources?

You may discover that your ideal franchise is in an industry you never considered. That’s why we take a personalized approach rather than simply recommending popular brands.

Think of it like a custom-tailored suit versus one off the rack. The better the fit, the better the opportunity.

From there, your coach will help you explore potential matches, connect with franchisors and existing franchise owners, and conduct thorough due diligence so you can make an informed, confident decision.

Franchising goes far beyond fast food and retail. Through our network, you’ll have access to over 600 franchise brands across 15 industries, including home services, senior care, health and wellness, pet care, business services, fitness, kids, automotive, real estate and more.

Opportunities range from hands-on owner-operator businesses to models that allow you to hire a manager to oversee daily operations.

Your coach will help narrow down the options based on your interests, lifestyle, financial goals, and available territories.

We’ve been working with veterans and franchising since the company was founded in 2001. We created the National Veteran Owned Business Association in 2008 and maintain a close partnership with this venerable organization.

We created Vetrepreneur® magazine and its predecessor Veterans Business Journal in 2004. We advocated for the government to meet its service-disabled, veteran-owned small business goal. We advocated for the passage of state laws mandating use of veterans in state contracts resulting in 28 additional states passing laws between 2006 and 2012.

We created the Buy Veteran movement in 2009 which encourages all Americans to buy products and services from veteran-owned businesses. Finally, we created the Vetrepreneur of the Year® program in 2006.

Our team is comprised of veterans and patriots and we know the unique advantages and challenges to franchising from the veterans’ perspective.

Our Franchise Coaching team is comprised of Veterans and dedicated Patriots who understand the unique advantages Veterans possess and obstacles they may encounter in franchising.

While we specialize in assisting Veterans, our ability to serve non-veterans is also unparalleled, so non-veteran Patriots are also eligible. We find that our non-veteran clients appreciate the leadership and business discipline that our military-trained Coaches bring to bear!

We have partnerships with about 600 franchises. This enables our clients a choice of, on average, about 40 franchises in each of 15 different franchise industries.

You do need to have the attributes that make for a great franchise owner. But you don’t need to be an expert. (Example: You don’t need to be an electrician to run an electrical franchise).

You don’t need a business degree or business ownership experience.You don’t need an idea for a start-up business.
The franchisor will train you in everything you need to know to be successful in the business and will provide ongoing training and support. Also, just like the mentality in the military, franchisees can lean on other franchisees in the system for advice and support.

They’re looking for people who can execute their business plans in a local market. As a franchise owner, you have three primary jobs: 1. Lead your employees. 2. Manage the resources of the business. 3. Act as the face and voice of the business to customers and the community.

You don’t need to be all of those things. Few people are. But you must know your weak areas and surround yourself with others who can cover your blind spots. Specific skills and intangibles that franchisors seek include :

1. The ability to follow a proven process.
2. Build, lead, manage and inspire teams.
3. Desire to serve your community.
4. Customer and relationship-focused.
5. Self-starter.
6. Grit and determination
7. Takes advantage of the support resources at the franchisor and fellow franchisee levels.

Sound like what was expected of you in the military?

Our services are 100% free.  Vetrepreneur is a veteran-owned business and may receive referral fees from participating franchise partners which enables us to provide our services for free.  This is similar to a recruiting firm or headhunter model.  We work with approximately 600 different franchises across 15 different franchise industries and are able to add new ones on an as-needed basis.  Other entities involved in your due diligence process will obviously charge you fees if you use them, including lenders, lawyers and accountants.

Business ownership is not for everyone. In fact, it’s not for most people. Our goal is to enable you to decide if it is for you by walking you through a comprehensive, 10-step, 10-week process. You may exit the process at any point you are able to make that decision.

Most franchise consultants are a one-man band with a wide variety of experience level and service consistency. By contrast, Vetrepreneur is a team of professionals dedicated to helping you find your best path to owning and operating your own business.

You’ll have access your dedicated person Franchise Coach, client support team and franchise portal access with information and resources needed throughout your journey. We have connections to funding & loan experts, CPAs, accountants, credit repair specialists and legal specialists as needed along the way.

Franchise Coaches:
Meet the team

If you start searching for franchises online, which we call going to the “franchise buffet,” you will be deluged with information from a variety of sources. You get the wrong information, from an unvetted source at the wrong time.

Sometimes, people select a franchise because it appears on a list of the best franchises or their friend said this is the best franchise or they were the genius who figured out that there needs to be an xyz franchise on that corner. That may be a reasonable way to select mutual funds for your 401(k) but these are all the wrong reasons to match to a franchise. The reason is because you are running that franchise, and you are unique.

The match is critically important. Our Coaches use a combination of science and experience to match you to franchise opportunities based on six factors: your why, your fears, current and desired lifestyle, skills and interests, geographic preferences and financial resources. Most veterans we work with end up choosing a business they never envisioned themselves in. Finding the right franchise is like getting a custom-made suit. Buying a suit off the rack won’t work.

We educate and support you through the entire 10-week process from initial inquiry to franchise award. When you become a franchise owner, you become part of the franchise system.

Becoming a franchisee through the Vetrepreneur® Coaching Service gives you access to free Vetreprenur® content, discounted veteran hiring services through Military Friendly® Employer Membership, one year free full membership to Buy Veteran and eligibility to earn recognition through the local and national Vetrepreneur of the Year® and Franchise Vetrepreneur of the Year awards.

We’ve been working with veterans and franchising since the company was founded in 2001.  We created the National Veteran Owned Business Association in 2008 and maintain a close partnership with this venerable organization.  We created Vetrepreneur® magazine and its predecessor Veterans Business Journal in 2004. We advocated for the government to meet its service-disabled, veteran-owned small business goal.  We advocated for the passage of state laws mandating use of veterans in state contracts resulting in 28 additional states passing laws between 2006 and 2012.  We created the Buy Veteran movement in 2009 which encourages all Americans to buy products and services from veteran-owned businesses.  Finally, we created the Vetrepreneur of the Year® program in 2006.

We’ve been working with veterans and franchising since the company was founded in 2001. We created the National Veteran Owned Business Association in 2008 and maintain a close partnership with this venerable organization.

We created Vetrepreneur® magazine and its predecessor Veterans Business Journal in 2004. We advocated for the government to meet its service-disabled, veteran-owned small business goal. We advocated for the passage of state laws mandating use of veterans in state contracts resulting in 28 additional states passing laws between 2006 and 2012.

We created the Buy Veteran movement in 2009 which encourages all Americans to buy products and services from veteran-owned businesses. Finally, we created the Vetrepreneur of the Year® program in 2006.

Our team is comprised of veterans and patriots and we know the unique advantages and challenges to franchising from the veterans’ perspective.

Why This Works for Veterans

You’ve executed missions before. This one is about owning your future. Our process gives you a clear path, checkpoints, and a steady cadence from readiness → decision.

Franchise business model

Proven
Systems

You’re familiar with following a playbook. Franchising provides established processes and training to help you operate a business.

3,000+

Franchise brands operating in the U.S.

Leadership
& Teams

You’ve learned to lead, communicate, and hold teams accountable. Those skills translate into managing a franchise.

1.6 Million

Veteran-Owned Businesses in the U.S.

Mission-Driven
Ownership

You’re used to setting goals and executing a plan. Franchise ownership offers a new mission with measurable objectives.

Hundreds

Franchise awards through Vetrepreneur®

Your Path To Starting Your Business Starts Here

The Vetrepreneur Proven Process Helps You Attain Your Dream of Being Your Own Boss.

Step 1 franchise bootcamp

Step 1

Franchise Bootcamp

Franchise Bootcamp

Learn the basics of franchising to see if franchising could be the right path for you.
Get Started
Step 2 self assessment

Step 2

Self Assessment

Self Assessment

This self assessment will help us determine if you’re well suited to move forward with franchising, and your best fit.
Get Started
Step 3 discovery meeting

Step 3

Discovery Meeting

Discovery Meeting

Determine your skills, lifestyle, finances, location and how those line up with franchises.
Get Started
Step 4 presentation of options

Step 4

Presentation of Options

Presentation of Options

Review franchise options your coach provided you.
Get Started
Step 5 franchisor calls

Step 5

Franchisor Calls

Franchisor Calls

You've selected franchises you're interested in. Time to have conversations with them.
Get Started
Step 6 funding

Step 6

Funding

Funding

Time to get your funding options lined up.
Get Started
Step 7 fdd review

Step 7

FDD Review

FDD Review

Review the FDD for awareness and protection.
Get Started
Step 8 validation

Step 8

Validation

Validation

Talk with other franchise owners in your chosen franchise.
Get Started
Step 9 discovery day

Step 9

Discovery Day

Discovery Day

You'll meet with the franchisor and team. Hear about training, marketing, support, etc.
Get Started
Step 10 franchise award

Step 10

Franchise Award!

Franchise Award!

Congratulations! You've been awarded the franchise.
Get Started

GUIDANCE FROM SOMEONE WHO UNDERSTANDS

Your Personal
Veteran Advisor

Your Veteran franchise coach helps you explore opportunities, understand your options, and navigate the franchise ownership process—from your first conversation through your final decision.

Take your first step to financial freedom by scheduling a call with a franchise coach to see if owning a franchise is right for you. We’ll get your questions answered.

Our Franchise Coaches are positioned to help your dreams become reality. We’ll take you through the proven roadmap so you are able to attain your independence and success in owning your own business.

1 in 7 franchises is owned by a veteran
Veterans Thrive as Franchise Owners

Franchises provide the business plan. Veterans are trained to execute a plan. When done right, veterans find financial freedom and the feeling of satisfaction that goes with doing something meaningful.

Faces vetrepreneur alumni

We have a history of helping veterans and military spouses attain their dream of business ownership!

We would love to help you Too!

TESTIMONIALS

Proud Vetrepreneurs®

"The mentorship was invaluable"

Our coach, Doug Hoerster, provided expert guidance, encouragement, and valuable resources throughout the entire process. The mentorship was invaluable, and the fact that it was provided at no cost made the experience even more remarkable. We couldn’t have asked for a better partner on our path to franchise ownership.”

Jeff M.
Cruise Planners Franchisee
Air Force Veteran

David v. , franchisee, navy veteran

"Others were in awe of Vetrepreneur's® support"

“Chris and his team supported and explained every step of our process, using the service was free and the end result of the mentorship, encouragement and support was invaluable. On our franchise approval day there were 12 other potential franchisees, when I spoke about Vetrepreneur® and what support we had they were all in awe!”

David V.
Hounds Town Franchisee

Navy veteran

Juanita bovain vetrepreneur franchisee college hunks

"All partners he recommended offered great insight!"

“My coach was a great franchise coach, he was able to connect me with a franchise that without his guidance I would not have even considered as an option for me. All of the partners he recommended from the attorney to the lender were responsive, knowledgeable and offered great insight.”

Juanita B.
College Hunks Franchisee

Navy veteran

Beau mcneff vetrepreneur franchisee fastest labs

"Wasn't pushy or salesy and took the time to get to know me."

“My coach was tremendous to work with. He wasn’t pushy, or salesy and took the time to get to know me, what I wanted out of my own business, and where I was in life. He presented me multiple options, and helped me narrow them down based on my background and desires.”

Beau M.
Fastest Labs Franchisee

Army veteran

Find Your Franchise Fit

Let's get started on your journey path to owning and operating your own business.