From Service to Success: How VetFran Helps Veterans Build Businesses
VA News
October 7, 2026
Veterans Experience Office
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Vets Experience
Finding the next mission can be challenging for Veterans at every stage of life, whether pursuing a new professional chapter or seeking a renewed sense of purpose.
VetFran, a program launched by the International Franchise Association 35 years ago, is uniquely positioned to help Veterans and military families explore franchise ownership and career opportunities that build on the skills they developed while serving.
Through a network of more than 500 franchise brands, VetFran connects Veterans with:
- Financial incentives
- Training
- Mentorship
- Business resources
Every participating brand provides a Veteran incentive, typically a discount on the initial franchise fee. Those discounts commonly range from 10% to 50%, with some VetFran brands waiving their fee entirely, helping reduce the upfront cost of entering a franchise system.
A Strong Fit for Veterans
Franchising can be a natural fit for Veterans, as they are accustomed to pursuing a mission, managing responsibilities, and making decisions under changing conditions—the same qualities that help them lead teams, serve customers, and grow a business.
Veterans already have a meaningful presence in franchising. Although they represent about 7% of the U.S. population, they own more than 14% of franchise businesses, or roughly one in every seven franchises. Veteran-owned franchises also benefit the communities they serve by creating jobs, supporting local economies, and providing a way to continue leading close to home.
Franchising also creates employment opportunities for Veterans beyond business ownership. Seventy percent of franchise companies actively recruit and hire Veterans, and 99% of franchise leaders agree that Veterans excel as both corporate employees and franchisees.
Lowering Barriers to Ownership
Starting any business requires careful planning, capital, and commitment. Entrepreneurs must develop their own product or service, create operating systems, build a customer base, hire employees, and secure financing. A franchise does not eliminate those responsibilities, but it can reduce uncertainty by lowering the cost of getting started and offering a tested business model, established operating procedures, and support from an experienced brand.
In 2024, VetFran incentives helped 877 Veterans launch franchise businesses, saving them more than $7.8 million in franchise fees.
Building a Stronger Transition Support Network
Business ownership is rarely a solo effort. Veterans exploring franchising may benefit from a strong support network of fellow Veterans, mentors, and industry experts. VetFran connects Veterans with these resources, fostering a sense of community and strengthening their transition to entrepreneurship.