Veteran & Military Spouse
Business Accelerator
A free, national 8-week program giving Veteran and Military Spouse entrepreneurs the capital, coaching, and community to launch and grow.
Mission-Driven.
Nationally Backed.
The Veteran & Military Spouse Business Accelerator is a coordinated national initiative by the Veteran Loan Fund — a network of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) — created to help Veteran and Military Spouses access capital, training, and support for their businesses.
This initiative seeks to deploy $15 million in loans and up to $1.5 million in grants among 300 Veterans and Military Spouses — helping create or retain 1,500 jobs within 12 months.
"Veterans and Military Spouses bring resilience, leadership, and innovation to our communities. We're proud to support this Accelerator and expand access to the capital and resources they need to succeed."
Everything You Need to Succeed
Weekly instruction, structured assignments, and one-on-one business coaching from experienced mentors who understand your journey.
Financial literacy and capital readiness workshops designed to prepare Veterans for funding — so when opportunity arrives, you're ready.
Full access to LivePlan, a professional business planning and financial forecasting platform to build plans, model projections, and track performance.
Hands-on support for marketing strategy and operational efficiency so your business runs strong from day one.
Participants who complete the program may qualify for a loan of up to $350,000 through VLF member CDFIs — lenders built to serve Veterans. Subject to lender approval.
After completing the program, receive ongoing technical assistance for up to three years — because your success doesn't end at graduation.
8 Weeks. A Lifetime of Impact.
Start with a brief assessment to confirm eligibility — takes just a few minutes, no lengthy paperwork up front.
Weekly instruction, structured assignments, one-on-one coaching, and full access to the LivePlan platform.
Complete all program requirements to unlock loan capital access, your grant, and the conference pass.
Ongoing technical assistance, lender connections, and the broader Veteran entrepreneur community behind you.
Benefits for Those Who Complete the Program
Participants who successfully complete all program requirements will have access to:
Participants may qualify for a loan of up to $350,000 through VLF member CDFI lenders. (Subject to lender approval.)
A grant amount between $3,000 and a maximum of $5,000 to support your business launch or growth.
Ongoing expert technical assistance for up to three years post-graduation — your long-term support network.
Complimentary access to the Business Beyond Battlefield Conference at the National Medal of Honor Museum.
Ready to Apply?
Take the first step in minutes. Complete a short online assessment to begin your application — it's completely free.
Start Your Free ApplicationOr connect with your nearest VLF Member CDFI to apply in person.