Veterans are 45% more likely to start their own business, and one out of 10 small businesses in the U.S. are veteran-owned. That's around 2.4 million businesses.
Even with that entrepreneurial spirit, there are significant barriers for veterans entering the marketplace on their own.
ACP aims to improve the odds for our population.
ACP Ventures is committed to empowering veteran and active duty military spouse entrepreneurs with:
- a 1-on-1 year long mentorship with an industry expert
- on-demand resources
- a Village of supporters
Our mission is to cultivate a legacy of informed veterans and active duty military spouses who venture their entrepreneurial journey with intention, creating enduring impact for themselves and their communities.
Take the first step today, and become a part of ACP Ventures. Your entrepreneurial journey awaits, with a Village ready to support you every step of the way.
ACP welcomes applications from service members, veterans and spouses who meet the following eligibility criteria:
Active duty service members (including members of the Reserve and National Guard).
Veterans of the armed forces that have served at least 180 days on active duty orders since September 11, 2001.
Surviving spouses and spouses of severely wounded post-9/11 veterans.
Service members who served less than 180 days of active duty since 9/11, but who were injured while serving or training.
For exceptions to this policy, please email the ACP Ventures team at acp-ventures@acp-usa.org with an explanation of your circumstances.
If you served prior to 9/11, please join us on acpvillage.org where military-connected entrepreneurs find ongoing support, premium resources and connections in real-time.
Monica F., U.S. Air Force Spouse
“Entrepreneurship is one of the hardest things I have ever done, it's filled with constant challenges. But one big challenge I have continued to face is finding the right help and support from both a financial and marketing standpoint. With my mentor we would review possible people and opportunities together and dive deeper on what really was I needing at the time of that challenge and how could I get to where I wanted to go.”
Matt T., U.S. Navy Veteran
"I have faced so many different challenges in the last year and a half or so building my business. One of the biggest obstacles was creating a client base. Stephen was instrumental in helping me brainstorm and find creative ways to attract customers. He was also super helpful in keeping me focused on my short term goals. Overall I had a great experience through ACP and not only got a tremendous mentor I made another friend along the way."
Rafsan H., U.S. Navy Spouse
"My ACP mentor, Regina, has been an invaluable resource in my journey towards entrepreneurship. Regina taught me the importance of networking and opened doors to numerous opportunities. Inspired by her guidance, I am on the verge of launching my own business in IT project management and citizen development."
