During November we celebrate National Veterans Small Business Week, which runs Nov. 11-13. Throughout the month we recognize those veterans, service members and military spouses who take the steps to realize their goal of small-business ownership. Historically, veterans are more likely to start a small business than non-veterans. Nearly 10% of all American businesses are owned by a veteran. Utah is home to more than 140,000 veterans, and more than 19,000 of them have made the jump to small-business ownership.
Veteran-owned small firms are a critical part of the economy, employing over 5 million Americans and generating $1.3 trillion in total sales. As a nation, it is our duty to ensure that these heroes have the resources they need to succeed while pursuing their vision of the American Dream. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) plays an important role in helping veterans and existing service members access the business resources they require.
As the SBA’s regional administrator, I work alongside Utah District Director Marla Trollan to make sure our military heroes across the state receive the help they require. I hold a special place in my heart for our veterans since I am the spouse of an Army veteran and granddaughter of two well-decorated United States Air Force and Indian Air Force officers. I have personally witnessed the dedication and passion military veterans give back to their local neighborhoods, cities and towns. This dedication to community is a common thread among veterans across Utah and the nation.