Shonte Gonzalez, A&FRC community readiness consultant, described why this program is such a unique opportunity for military members and their spouses.
“It’s completely free and allows military members and their spouses to have access to tips and tricks about business ownership that are not readily available to just anyone. They get to hear from different instructors from the Small Business Administration who provide their knowledge and mentorship,” she said.
B2B offers several educational opportunities for every step of the journey to owning a business.
The “Introduction to Entrepreneurship” course is a two-day foundational course in which participants are introduced to the basics of launching a business, including steps for developing business concepts, how to develop a business plan and information on SBA resources to help.
Upon completion of this course, participants can opt to further their study for free through one of the many B2B online courses, delivered through partnerships with the Institute for Veterans and Military Families, Syracuse University and Mississippi State University.
Boots to Business is just one of the many resources available to service members to ensure a successful transition from the military to a civilian career.
Gonzalez described the unique attributes that veterans possess that help them to be successful business owners.
“They have been taught so well by the military to be organized, have follow through and the stamina to not give up and keep going. They are used to being on call 24-hours a day. All of these attributes are so helpful when pursuing your own business,” she said.
Gonzalez added that she highly encourages anyone who is separating from the military to attend this class, especially if it is in the next year.
“Even if you’re just thinking about it, you should still attend because this could be what pushes you to take the next step,” she said.
To learn more about Boots to Business, visit www.sbavets.force.com.
Classes are held three times a year at the Airman and Family Readiness Center in Bldg. 2, Area A. To register for this course or get more information, call 937-257-3592.
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