Great questions we got today
Here is some we could find if anyone else is looking to start a business in the drone industry or any veteran owned business
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA): Offers the Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert) program, which helps service-disabled veterans access federal contracts, loans (including the Military Reservist Economic Injury Disaster Loan), and procurement training through the Veteran Institute for Procurement (VIP).
Warrior Rising: A nonprofit providing free business development programs, including training, coaching, mentorship, and startup grants for veterans and military spouses to launch or grow businesses.
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): Through VetCert and the Veterans First Contracting Program, it supports SDVOSBs with advantages in bidding on government contracts, surplus property purchases, and resources via the Veteran Entrepreneur Portal.
Disabled American Veterans (DAV): A leading charity offering support for disabled veterans, including career resources and assistance that can extend to business startup needs
Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans with Disabilities (EBV): A free program helping disabled veterans develop business plans, launch ventures, and access ongoing support through university partnerships.
Second Service Foundation: Runs the Military Entrepreneur Challenge, providing coaching and grants (up to $15,000 in past awards) for veteran-owned businesses, including those run by disabled vets.
Hiring Our Heroes: Offers grants (e.g., $10,000 awards) for veteran- or military spouse-owned businesses demonstrating financial need, with a focus on growth and support.
Vets to Drones: A nonprofit offering free drone training, self-paced Part 107 courses, apprenticeships (e.g., Veteran Drone Apprenticeship Program or VDAP), mentorship, and real-world missions for veterans transitioning to drone careers; partners with the VA's Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VR&E) program for benefits
A Write to Heal (AMAC Foundation): Sponsors the Veteran Drone Training Program, providing Part 107 certification and job opportunities in remote aircraft and cinematic industries, with a focus on reducing veteran unemployment and supporting disabled vets.
Drone Workforce Solutions: GI Bill-approved training for veterans to enter the drone industry, covering certification and skills development.
Aquiline Drones: Provides drone franchise opportunities with a 30% discount for qualified veterans (including service-disabled), plus free training through partnerships like Vets to Drones; focuses on government contracting for SDVOSBs