News Summary
Veteran-owned businesses in Texas are significantly impacting the state’s economy, contributing an impressive $1.18 billion. As Small Business Week approaches, the Texas Veterans Commission supports these entrepreneurs with essential resources, fostering growth in cities like Austin, which is recognized as a top location for veteran business ventures. Success stories, such as a food truck owner transforming into a national supplier, exemplify the determination and creativity of these veterans. The support available encourages veterans to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations.
Texas is witnessing a significant contribution from veteran-owned businesses, amounting to $1.18 billion to the state’s economy. This substantial figure was highlighted during Small Business Week, which runs from May 4 to 10. The recognition emphasizes the impactful role of small businesses and entrepreneurs, especially those who have served in the military.
The Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) plays a critical role in supporting veteran entrepreneurs throughout their business journey. Led by Megan Tamez, the director of the TVC Entrepreneur Program, the organization provides invaluable resources for veterans looking to establish and grow their businesses. The TVC offers assistance with business planning, marketing, and connections to potential capital.
Austin has recently been identified as an ideal city for veterans, ranking as the best city for veterans to live and one of the top 10 cities for starting a business, according to a WalletHub ranking. This recognition is attributed to the city’s growing support network for entrepreneurs, making it an attractive place for veteran business owners.
Among the notable examples of successful veteran entrepreneurs is Robert Strong, an Air Force veteran and owner of Pretty Thai Specialty Sauces & Spices. Strong’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2013 when he launched his business from a food truck in Austin, shortly after the TVC’s Veteran Entrepreneur Program was established. His culinary inspiration stems from his time spent in Thailand during his deployment. Strong’s specialty sauces, which have gained popularity, are now available at over 50 H-E-B locations and are set to enter Walmart stores by October.
The TVC’s services extend further than guidance and planning. Veterans can obtain a veteran verification letter that enables them to waive certain fees and taxes when starting a new veteran-owned business. This benefit aims to alleviate some financial barriers, allowing veterans to focus on building successful enterprises.
For veterans seeking additional information on how to navigate the journey of entrepreneurship, resources and support can be easily accessed on the Texas Veterans Commission website. The TVC is committed to fostering a thriving environment for veteran entrepreneurs, contributing to the overall economic growth of the state.
As Small Business Week continues, the spotlight on veteran entrepreneurs and their contributions serves not only as a celebration but also as an encouragement for other veterans to explore entrepreneurial opportunities. The economic strength of Texas is significantly bolstered by these hard-working individuals, reflecting their dedication to both their businesses and their communities.
As veteran-owned businesses like Robert Strong’s gain traction and visibility, the combination of local support and structured assistance through programs like that of the TVC is essential in ensuring the continued success and expansion of veteran entrepreneurship in Texas.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- KXAN: Texas Helps Veteran-Owned Businesses
- Wikipedia: Veteran
- Austinot: Veteran’s Day Deals in Austin 2024
- Google Search: Veteran-Owned Businesses in Texas
- Community Impact: Veteran-Owned Plumbing Business
- Google Scholar: Veteran Entrepreneurship
- Fox Business: Best Cities for Veterans
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Veteran Owned Business
- Statesman: Veterans Job Fair in Austin
- Google News: Texas Veteran Business Support
Author: STAFF HERE COLLEGE WRITER
The COLLEGE STATION STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECollegeStation.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in College Station, Brazos County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Brazos Valley Fair & Rodeo, Chilifest, and Aggie Muster. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Brazos Valley, plus leading businesses in education, biotechnology, and retail that power the local economy such as Texas A&M University, Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, and H-E-B. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
