Start with federal support that applies everywhere
Many veteran resources are national: SBA programs, Veteran Business Outreach Centers and federal contracting preferences for certified businesses.
The SBA runs Veteran Business Outreach Centers that offer training and counseling. Federal contracting programs set aside some work for veteran-owned and service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses, and the SBA oversees certification. Rules change, so confirm current requirements at SBA.gov.
For program basics, see the certified veteran-owned small business guide, the VetCert verification overview and the SBA Veterans Advantage program.
Look at state-level veteran programs
States differ on veteran business certification, procurement preferences, fee waivers and grants. Check each state's veterans affairs and economic development sites.
Some states keep their own veteran-owned business registry, give preference in state purchasing, waive filing fees or offer training. Others do little. The details change often, so verify with the state agency rather than relying on a list.
Search for the state department of veterans affairs and the state economic development office. Ask what certification they offer, what it takes and which contracts it opens.
Consider military presence and community
States with large military communities often have stronger veteran networks, lenders familiar with service records and customers who value veteran-owned businesses.
Proximity to bases, VA facilities and veteran organizations can mean more mentors and hiring pools. It can also mean competition from other veteran-owned firms, especially in government contracting.
If you plan to sell to the government, location near agency offices or installations may matter. If you plan to sell to consumers, population and income matter more.
Compare taxes and cost of living for your situation
Some states exempt military retirement pay or offer property tax breaks to veterans. Business taxes vary separately.
Two tax questions matter: how the state treats your personal income and benefits, and how it taxes your business. A state friendly on one may not be on the other. Ask your accountant to compare actual numbers.
Also compare housing, rent and wages in the metro area you are considering. Our general framework in what makes a state good for small business applies here too.
Match the state to your business
A trade business needs local customers. A contractor needs government buyers. An online seller needs logistics and talent. Choose accordingly.
Write down your top three customers or customer types. Where are they? Then check the cost to reach them, the labor you will need and the competition. A great veteran program will not make up for a market too small to support your business.
The guide to starting a business as a veteran covers planning steps that work in any state.
Questions to ask a state agency
Call or email the state veterans office and economic development agency with specific questions, and get the answers in writing.
A short list of questions saves weeks of guessing:
- Does the state certify veteran-owned and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses, and what documents are required?
- Does certification give a preference in state purchasing, and how often is it used?
- Are there fee waivers for business registration or licenses for veterans?
- Which training, mentoring or grant programs exist, and who qualifies?
- Does the state offer property or income tax relief that affects your situation?
Write down the name of the person you spoke with and the date. Program details change, and a record helps if you need to follow up.
Funding for veteran-owned businesses
ROI Funder serves veteran-owned businesses in all 50 states that meet its basic requirements.
Eligibility is the same regardless of state: 6+ months in business, $20,000+ monthly revenue and 500+ FICO considered. Our team works Eastern business hours. We show true cost and payback before anyone signs. See our page on funding for veteran-owned businesses.
If you want a lower-cost, slower route, SBA loans are worth comparing. Applying to ROI Funder takes a few minutes with a soft credit pull and no obligation to accept an offer.
Frequently asked questions
Which state is best for a veteran-owned business?
There is no single best state. It depends on your market, taxes, certification options and the support you need.
Where do I get certified as a veteran-owned business?
Start at SBA.gov for federal certification. Some states run their own programs through veterans affairs or economic development offices.
Can veterans get SBA loans?
Yes. Veterans can apply for standard SBA programs, and some SBA lenders have veteran-focused options. Check SBA.gov for current terms.
Does ROI Funder fund veteran-owned businesses?
Yes, in all 50 states, as long as the business meets the time in business, revenue and credit requirements.