LaunchVets

Startup · The Builder's Path

Ship the product. Win the SBIR. Keep your equity.

Non-dilutive capital, the right accelerators, and the vet founder network for people building venture-scale companies.

"Explore a problem. Validate a solution. Test. Iterate."

See open programs Not sure? Take the assessment

How this path runs

Pick the lane closest to what you're building. Each filters the programs library to the programs and guides that fit.

Hardware & Manufacturing

Physical products, electronics, manufacturing, supply chain

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Software & SaaS

SaaS, dev tools, AI applications, consumer apps

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Defense Tech & Dual-Use

DoD-facing, dual-use technology, federal sales motion

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Open right now

3 programs accepting applications. See all programs in the library for the full filter view.

Small Business+ StartupCertificationGovernment ProgramSD required
SDVOSB Certification (VetCert)

SBA Office of Veterans Business Development

BLUF
  • Time:4-8 hours (application) + ~12 days SBA processing
  • Admittance:Application + Eligibility-Based
  • Funding:No Cash Award
  • Delivery:N/A

Service-disabled veteran (10%+ VA rating) with 51%+ ownership and control of the business. Self-certification for federal subcontracting and goaling ended December 22, 2024 (NDAA FY2024). SBA VetCert is now the only path.

Federal contracting set-aside eligibility. Federal government aims to award at least 5% of all federal prime contracting dollars to SDVOSBs annually (SBA official goal). VA sets aside at least 7% of its contracts specifically for certified VOSBs and SDVOSBs.
Rolling · Rolling
See details Program page
Small Business+ StartupMentorshipTraining
Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOC)

U.S. Small Business Administration

BLUF
  • Time:Ongoing (free advising)
  • Admittance:Application
  • Funding:Pro BonoNon-dilutive
  • Delivery:Hybrid
  • Academic:Light

Vets, transitioning service members, military spouses. 28 regional centers + 1 national.

Free 1:1 advising, training, contracting guidance
Rolling · Rolling
See details Program page
Small Business+ StartupAccelerator
VetToCEO 7-Week Entrepreneurship Program

VetToCEO

BLUF
  • Time:40-60 hours (7-week program)
  • Admittance:Application + Committee Selection
  • Funding:In-KindNon-dilutive
  • Delivery:Remote
  • Academic:Moderate

Post-9/11 era veterans; competitive selection.

Free curriculum + alumni network
Rolling admission · Rolling; check vettoceo.org for the next cohort start.
See details Program page

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