Reps. Schneider, Williams Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Support Veteran Entrepreneurship Program

WASHINGTON – U.S. Representatives Brad Schneider (IL-10) and Roger Williams (TX-25) announced the introduction of bipartisan legislation to statutorily authorize the Boots to Business (B2B) program that helps transitioning service members to start and grow businesses.

Administered through the Office of Veteran Business Development in the Small Business Administration (SBA), the B2B program offers transitioning service members and military spouses a foundational two-day, in-person course for an introduction to business ownership which can be followed by optional online courses on topics including market research, business fundamentals, and revenue readiness.

Since B2B launched in 2013, more than 50,000 service members and spouses have participated in the program. The Veteran Entrepreneurship Training Act of 2021 would authorize this program for five years.

"Our veterans served our country with honor, and they deserve our support as they transition from military to civilian life," said Congressman Brad Schneider. "Many of the leadership, problem solving, and communications skills learned in the armed forces translate well to entrepreneurial and business success. The Boots to Business program does crucial work helping veterans start and grow businesses, and I'm proud to work with my colleague Congressman Roger Williams on this bipartisan effort to ensure this program can continue serving veterans in our communities."

"Honorable men and women who served their country deserve to be equipped with the training and expertise to make a successful career transition from the military," said Congressman Roger Williams. "It is important that veterans continue to have the opportunity to participate in the B2B program and pursue their business and entrepreneurial goals. This program offers critical courses that provide deep insight into starting and running a business. I am honored to lead this effort with Congressman Schneider to ensure veterans can successfully transition from the battle field to the business world."

The most recent U.S. Census recorded 2.4 million veteran-owned businesses employing 5.7 million individuals. Veterans are 45 percent more likely to be self-employed than those with no military experience.

The legislation is available here.