How do I qualify for VBOC services? |
All U.S. military veterans (including Active Duty) qualify for VBOC services. This is the website of VBOC Region IV, which serves the following states:
- Alabama
- Florida
- Georgia
- Kentucky
- Mississippi
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
If you are in another state, please consult the list of VBOC locations to determine which regional office to contact. |
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Why must I submit a Request for Counseling form before I can receive help? |
First, the VBOC is legally required to get your written consent to receive counseling, training, and advice. This means that we cannot provide you with any assistance until you have submitted the ERFC. If you contact us and have not submitted the form, we can only give you general information, nothing specific to your situation.
The Request For Counseling also serves as our Confidentiality and Conflict of Interest Agreements (provided for your security). |
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Are there grants available to open a business? |
Currently, the VBOC is unaware of specific grants for veterans, or anyone for that matter, to open a for-profit business.
Typically, grants go to non-profit social service, larger research and educational institutions. However, the VBOC advises that those veterans interested in grants search the Internet (www.grants.gov) and other financial publications for information. ***Please be aware of and research thoroughly the legitimacy of all organizations stating they can “get” you a grant (these are usually scams!).
If the VBOC becomes aware of legitimate grants available, this information will certainly be posted. |
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Does the VBOC lend money to open a small business? |
No.
The VBOC is not a lending institution and therefore, does not lend money to small businesses. A veteran will have to obtain financing through a bank, other financial institution, or other means. |
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What is the SBA? |
The United States Small Business Administration, established in 1953, provides technical, financial, and management assistance to help Americans start, run, and expand their businesses. With a portfolio of business loans, loan guarantees, and disaster loans, the SBA is the nation's largest single financial backer of small businesses.
The SBA does not give loans to start businesses, they only guarantee the loan to the bank (if you qualify). You must first apply to a bank that provides SBA guarantees.
You can find out more by going to SBA.gov. |
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| Is the VBOC a part of the Veterans Administration? |
No. We are an independent specialized program of the Florida Small Business Development Center Network granted by the Small Business Administration to serve veterans in our eight state region with starting or expanding their businesses. If you have questions regarding benefits or disability claims please go to www.va.gov to find a VA office nearest you. |
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| Does the V.A. provide loans for veterans to start businesses? |
No. The SBA provides loan guarantee options to veterans starting businesses. You must apply to an SBA lender.
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| Does the VBOC share my information with anyone? |
No. The Request For Counseling form is a non-disclosure statement that assures that we will not share your information with any outside commercial entities. |
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| Can the VBOC assist/intervene with Government Contracting issues? |
- No. We have no standing (nor authority) in the contracting process (see Federal Acquisition Register Part 33). You must seek the guidance of a trained Government Procurement Agent or qualified attorney.
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