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Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOC)

U.S. Small Business Administration (resource partner)

Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOC) -- free business counseling

Veterans Business Outreach Centers, or VBOC, are SBA-funded centers that provide free business training, counseling, and mentorship to veterans, transitioning service members, National Guard/Reserve members, and military spouses starting or growing a business.

Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOC) are SBA-funded resource centers that provide free business training, counseling, and mentorship to veterans, transitioning service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and military spouses who are starting or growing a business.

VBOCs are part of the U.S. Small Business Administration's network of resource partners. They offer one-on-one counseling with experienced business advisors, workshops on topics like business planning, financing, and government contracting, and mentorship to help military-connected entrepreneurs move their ideas forward or grow an existing business.

These services are provided at no cost. VBOC staff work with founders at every stage, whether they are exploring a business idea for the first time, writing a business plan, seeking capital, or navigating the process of becoming a government contractor.

Because VBOC centers are located across the country, the best way to connect with one is to use the SBA's official local assistance finder, which lets you search specifically for Veterans Business Outreach Centers near you. This tool will show you the nearest office so you can reach out directly for services, since specific office addresses, hours, and staff are not listed here.

If you are a veteran, transitioning service member, Guard/Reserve member, or military spouse interested in starting or growing a business, VBOC is a free resource built specifically for you.

Who qualifies

This program serves veterans, active transitioning service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and military spouses. It is intended for those who are starting a new business or working to grow an existing one. There is no mention of specific income, business size, or industry restrictions in the eligibility criteria provided.

How to get started

1. Confirm you fit the eligibility group: veteran, transitioning service member, National Guard/Reserve member, or military spouse.
2. Use the SBA's official finder to locate the nearest Veterans Business Outreach Center: https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance/find?type=Veterans%20Business%20Outreach%20Center.
3. Contact the center directly to schedule counseling, training, or mentorship.

Find your nearest office ↗

Program source ↗

Questions people ask

Is VBOC really free?

Yes, VBOC offers free business training, counseling, and mentorship.

What kind of help do they offer?

They provide business training, one-on-one counseling, and mentorship for starting or growing a business.

Who can use VBOC services?

Veterans, transitioning service members, National Guard/Reserve members, and military spouses starting or growing a business.

Is VBOC part of the SBA?

Yes, VBOC centers are SBA-funded resource partners operating nationwide.

Do I need to already have a business to use VBOC?

No, the program serves both those starting a business and those growing an existing one.

Can military spouses use this program?

Yes, military spouses starting or growing a business are eligible.

Where is my nearest VBOC office?

Use the SBA's official finder link to locate the Veterans Business Outreach Center nearest you.

Does VBOC offer mentorship, not just workshops?

Yes, VBOC provides mentorship in addition to training and counseling.

Is this different from general SBA services?

VBOC is a specialized SBA resource partner focused specifically on the veteran and military spouse community.

Source: sba-resource-partners. GetFundedUSA is independent and not affiliated with Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOC).