Legion to host small business workshop

Legion to host small business workshop

The American Legion is conducting a two-day Veterans Small Business Workshop in conjunction with the annual Washington Conference, Feb. 23-24.

The free workshop, "Small Business Roadmap to Success," is geared toward servicemembers, veterans and spouses who own their own businesses or are thinking about starting one.

The two-day session intensive entrepreneurship course was collectively created by the Legion and other local nonprofits and small businesses, including Vets GSA LLC, Goldschmitt & Associates LLC. and the National Veterans Small Business Coalition.

Upon completion of the course, participants will have the tools and knowledge they need to identify solid business opportunities, avoid common pitfalls and maximize their earning potential.

“This event represents the strength of the programs that the Legion can offer veterans,” said Capt. Scott Davidson, principal consultant from Vets GSA.

“Vets GSA has worked to provide the best in class for instructors so the veteran business owners can not only learn, but thrive in the small business market. With today’s ever-changing business landscape, these events are more important than ever so the veteran business owner is aware of the ever-changing requirements that may hinder business growth.”

For many veterans entrepreneurship is a viable option, especially for those who may find the job market tough to navigate," said Joe Sharpe, director of The American Legion’s Employment and Education Division. “That is one reason why, according to the SBA, veterans are more likely as non-veterans to start their own small business. “We recognize how important it is that we assist and advocate on behalf of our veterans who are self-employed. This is why The American Legion is one of the few veterans service organizations that have invested extensively tangible programs and services for veteran entrepreneurs.”

The Legion’s Small Business Roadmap to Success will include two full days of classes on policy updates, best practices and legal pitfalls. It will also include multiple networking sessions and a business luncheon where federal procurement officials and large businesses will be present to engage small businesses in contracting opportunities.

Servicemembers, veterans, spouses and small businesses looking to partner with veteran-owned small businesses are welcome to attend the event and can register online here.