VetFran

Veterans bring leadership, discipline, resilience, and a service mindset that translate powerfully into business ownership.

At the 3rd Annual National Military Thriving Change Forum hosted by ZeroMils, IFA's Matt Haller and Wendy Kunz joined Neighborly's Brad Stevenson and Ray Omar, U.S. Army Veteran and multi-unit Dunkin' franchise owner, for a panel discussion on: Building Communities — Empowering Veteran and Military Spouse Small Business and Franchise Owners as Engines of Growth and Impact

The discussion explored how Veterans can channel their military experience into entrepreneurial success through franchising and highlighted VetFran's commitment to providing education, connections, and resources that help more Veterans pursue small business ownership.

Although Veterans make up only about 7% of the U.S. population, they account for approximately 14% of all franchisees.

As Ray Omar shared: "Veterans are uniquely positioned to succeed in entrepreneurship with the support and structure they get in franchising."

Through advocacy, education, and community, VetFran remains committed to helping transitioning servicemembers explore business ownership opportunities and build successful futures through franchising.

Today, we honor 251 years of service, leadership, and sacrifice by the soldiers who have defended our nation and inspired generations through their commitment to something greater than themselves.

At VetFran, we are proud to support veterans and military spouses as they continue leading in their communities through franchise ownership and entrepreneurship.

Thank you to all who have served and continue to serve. Happy Birthday, US Army!

⏳ Deadline Tomorrow: Franchise Ascension Initiative Applications

The application deadline for the Franchise Ascension Initiative is tomorrow, May 31. Submit your application today for the opportunity to join this six‑month accelerator program.

We look forward to welcoming the next cohort and empowering entrepreneurs through education, access, and opportunity.

SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION 🔗 https://bit.ly/applyFAI2026

Join Us for Pathways of Franchising in Austin, TX
June 25 | 1:30 PM CT | Indigo Hotel

You’re invited to join us in Austin, TX, as we celebrate 35 years of VetFran helping veterans and military spouses transition into business ownership and learn more about franchising.

VetFran has connected members of the military community with franchise opportunities that value the leadership, discipline, resilience, and teamwork developed through military service.

At this special Pathways to Franchising event, sponsored by Zoho, you’ll:
🔹Hear real stories from Veteran Franchisees
🔹Learn why franchising is a strong fit for veterans and military spouses
🔹Connect with franchise leaders and fellow veterans

Whether you’re exploring your next career move, considering entrepreneurship, or simply looking to connect, this event is for you.

We hope you’ll join us for the celebration — secure your seat today, as spots are limited and filling quickly.

▶️ Reserve your spot today: https://zohoevents.zohobackstage.in/VetFranxZohoPathwaystoFranchising

Today and every day, we remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.

As we honor the fallen, we also recognize the families, loved ones, and fellow service members who carry their legacies forward.

At VetFran, our mission to support veteran entrepreneurs is rooted in the values of courage, service, leadership, and sacrifice demonstrated by those who served. We are honored to help veterans continue their next chapter through business ownership and franchising.

This Memorial Day, we pause in gratitude. We remember. We honor.

Today, on Armed Forces Day, VetFran proudly honors the brave men and women currently serving in the United States Armed Forces. Your courage, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting our freedoms inspire us every day.

At VetFran, we remain committed to supporting service members, veterans, and military spouses as they transition from military service to business ownership through franchising opportunities.

To all who serve — thank you for your dedication, strength, and sacrifice.

This Military Appreciation Month, VetFran proudly recognizes the veterans, service members, and military families whose sacrifice and service continue to make a lasting impact in communities across the country.

For more than 35 years, VetFran has remained committed to supporting veterans as they pursue their next mission through franchising and business ownership.

To all who have served — thank you for your dedication and continued leadership.

What an unforgettable day in Denver at our Pathways to Franchising event and the celebration of 35 incredible years of VetFran!
The day began with breathtaking sunrise views of Colorado’s snow-capped mountains — the perfect backdrop to kiick off our day filled with connection, opportunity, and purpose.
We were honored to bring together veterans, franchise leaders, and industry partners to explore pathways to business ownership and celebrate VetFran’s remarkable 35-year legacy of supporting those who have served our country. From meaningful conversations to powerful stories of entrepreneurship and service, the energy throughout the day was inspiring.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended, participated, and helped make this event so special. Here’s to continuing to open doors, create opportunities, and support our veteran community for many years to come! ❤️🤍💙

Veteran Franchisees… will you share your story with us?

Every franchise location has a local owner behind it. Someone who took the risk, hired the team, and invested in their community.

This , we're inviting our members to show the world what that looks like.
🎬 Join the campaign. Film a quick 15–45 second video from your location. All you need is your phone.

The formula is simple. Follow the steps in the toolkit and make sure to share your video with us!
https://franchisemeanslocal.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/IFA-FranchiseMeansLocal-Social-Toolkit.pdf