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1.6. Self-Employment

There is a strong correlation between military service and starting a business, according to research from the Small Business Administration (SBA) Office of Advocacy.  A recent study (2011) examined the level of entrepreneurship among military veterans and found that in the private sector workforce, veterans are at least 45% more likely than those with no active-duty military experience to be self-employed.

This isn't to say that self-employment and entrepreneurship is for everyone – and it is certainly not an "easy" answer to career development.  But, if you think you have what it takes to start your own business, it is certainly worth researching.  A good place to start would be the SBA's Office of Veterans Business Development.  

Franchise ownership is another option for veterans considering self-employment.  According to the International Franchise Association (IFA), one out of every seven franchise businesses are owned and operated by veterans.  IFA's VetFran program helps returning servicemembers and disabled veterans access franchise opportunities through training, financial assistance, and industry support.  

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