Military veterans only make up roughly 7% of the general population (including retirees), yet 9% of businesses in the U.S. are veteran-owned. If you factor in businesses that are 50% veteran-owned that number jumps to 13%. These Census statistics highlight that veterans are about 45% more likely than non-veterans to start their own business.

For those who have been in the military, worked with service members or are a direct relative, this comes as no surprise. The special training and discipline veterans receive in the military prepares them for entrepreneurship. It also helps that there are franchise opportunities for veterans and special programs that can help prior military members realize their dream of being an entrepreneur.…