In today’s episode, Col. Sam Whitehurst (Ret.), your host, is continuing a conversation that was started several months ago regarding the opportunities that are available for transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses who want to become entrepreneurs and small businesses owners.

This time, Col. Sam welcomes Col. Scott Jensen (Ret.) to talk about the opportunities for Federal Contracting, which has the amount of $30 billion a year set aside in contracting for veterans to own small businesses.

Key Takeaways:

[3:45] Col. Scott shares his story.

[7:07] Col. Scott talks about who he moved to the non-profit space.

[9:23] NVSBC occupies a unique place in supporting veterans and Col. Scott explains why.

[11:56] Getting started and sustaining success are two of the challenges of the first stages of a veteran entrepreneur.

[14:28] Col. Scott talks about the advocacy piece.

[15:37] What is the greatest challenge that veteran entrepreneurs have to face?

[18:15] Col. Sam stresses the importance of networking.

[18:59] Col. Scott shares the work of NVSNC in helping veterans overcome some of the barriers to networking and to motivate them to increase their social capital.

[23:10] Col. Scott speaks about current policy changes that need to take place or are taking place now to support veteran entrepreneurs.

[27:10] Col. Scott talks about the certification process to be in business with the Federal Government.

[29:40] Col. Scott highlights the importance of having the VA certification.

[33:30] Col Scott shares his words of encouragement for all veterans.

[36:43] The Dixon Center is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2022.

Mentioned in this episode:

Dixon Center: Reaching America

At Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services, we believe our veterans and military families can succeed where they live.

Dixon Center is named after Staff Sergeant Donnie Dixon, who was killed in action on September 29, 2007, in Iraq. Staff Sergeant Dixon was a father, husband, and Soldier who always placed the mission first and the safety of his fellow Soldiers above his own. Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services stands as a testament to his example and leadership.

Dixon Center on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram

Listen to Episode 015: Empowering the Entrepreneurial Dreams of Veterans with Blake Hogan

Learn more about Col. Scott Jensen (Ret.)

Visit NVSBC

Tweetables and quotes:

“What is unique about NVSBC is that all its focus is in supporting veteran businesses in the federal marketplace.”

“It is critical for any business, but particularly in federal contracting, to realize that is not just bureaucracy, it is people, and you have to know who the people are and you have to be willing to talk to them.”

“If you are yet not certified, go to the VA right now and get certified.”

“Veterans make very successful entrepreneurs.”