Step 1

Veterans’ Pathway provides business assistance grants to eligible Veterans who have served in Iraq or Afghanistan, post 9/11 and are a recipient of an Iraq or Afghan Campaign Medal.  The grants are awarded both for start-ups or existing businesses.  There are no fees, interest, or payback requirements if the grant is awarded and funds are used according to the grant application and award specifications. The average grant awarded is in the range of $30,000 – $40,000.

Use of Funds

Examples of uses of the funds (grant) include, but are not limited to:

• Specific startup costs such as leasing offices and capital expenditures to start operations;
• Specific marketing/advertising/public relations project;
• Inventory purchase to fulfill/secure new contract;
• Workforce build out;
• Working capital for specific expansion.

Are you Eligible?

In order to be considered for a grant, the applicant must meet the following basic requirements:

• have served in Afghanistan or Iraq after September 11, 2001;
• have, or are eligible for, an honorable discharge with a Form DD214 provided;
• reside in Florida and can provide proof of residency; and
• present a detailed business plan for eventual approval by the Veterans’ Pathway Board of Directors;
• if grant is for an existing business, provide official Florida Corporation documents, including proof that the business is majority-owned (51%) by a Veteran having served in Afghanistan or Iraq after September 11, 2001

Disclaimer and Follow up

Applicant will receive funds after signing a statement that all (1) all information provided is true, (2) that funds will be spent as stated, and (3) follow-up terms as agreed upon will be respected.  Veterans’ Pathway will maintain contact for a determined period of time with the Veteran who has received funding.   This timetable and reporting requirements will be established by the Grant committee, agreed upon by the applicant, and approved by the Veterans’ Pathway Board of Directors.