When a veteran is leaving the military service or retiring, perhaps the last thing on their mind is buying a franchise. But why not? Veterans are pre-equipped to succeed in the franchise market!

The U.S. military ingrains in each of their disciplined members a set of ordered principles. Veterans have had extensive training in following procedures and systematic rules. They have also already identified their specialty through the Military Occupation Specialty training.

Veterans have access to more advantageous loans, credit and discounted franchise costs. The idea of moving to reach an opportunity does not scare most veterans either, as they are used to traveling.

There are many companies who are willing to facilitate a veteran’s transition, like Recruit Military. The multi-day programs offered to those transitioning out of the military invite speakers from many different brands to come and speak. Another opportunity is to learn entrepreneurship and job-hunting skills.

One of the International Franchise Association’s most successful programs is called VetFran. This program was founded by the late Don Dwyer Sr., founder of The Dwyer Group, to help guide those returning home to what is next in life for them.

When a franchise participates in this, they provide discounts to veterans acquiring a franchise in their company. There is a list of all participating franchise companies on VetFran.com. Nearly 400 franchisors have taken advantage of the program. Since tracking began in 2002, more than 1,700 veterans have purchased a franchise through the program.

A veteran may also find franchise opportunities at events like the West Coast Franchise Expo in November, which offers a Franchising 101 for Veterans session.

With these resources available, veterans may easily see the benefits and advantages to beginning their own franchise.