Veterans understand the meaning of sacrifice, discipline, and mission-driven success. These same principles should carry over into the way we do business. The veteran business community is growing, and while competition is a natural part of any industry, it should never come at the cost of tearing each other down.



Instead, veteran business owners have a unique opportunity—and responsibility—to lead by example. By supporting fellow veteran-owned businesses, even those we might compete with, we build a stronger, more influential, and more respected community.

The Brotherhood Doesn’t End After Service

The military instills a culture of teamwork and mission success over individual gain. Every veteran understands the concept of “no man left behind.” That mentality shouldn’t disappear in the business world.

When we served, we didn’t undermine our fellow Marines, Soldiers, Sailors, or Airmen to get ahead. We had each other’s backs because success depended on unity. Why should it be any different in the business world?

Transitioning from military to civilian life is tough, and starting a business presents even greater challenges. Who better to help a veteran business succeed than other veterans who understand the struggle?

A Rising Tide Lifts All Ships

The success of one veteran business isn’t a threat to another—it’s an opportunity.

• When a veteran-owned business thrives, it opens doors for others by demonstrating that veterans are strong, capable entrepreneurs.
• A network of successful veteran businesses creates more jobs for veterans, strengthening the entire community.
• Collaboration often leads to more opportunities—through partnerships, referrals, and mentorship.

Veteran-owned businesses that support each other set an example not only for other entrepreneurs but also for the next generation of service members looking to transition into business ownership.

The Cost of Tearing Each Other Down

Unfortunately, some veteran business owners see competition as an excuse to attack others in their industry. Whether it’s bad-mouthing a fellow veteran-owned business, attempting to steal customers dishonestly, or spreading negativity, this behavior only hurts the veteran community as a whole.

Here’s the truth: customers notice.

• When veterans turn on each other, it reflects poorly on all veteran businesses.
• Consumers respect integrity—infighting and negativity push potential customers away.
• We risk alienating potential allies who could have been valuable partners.

Business success doesn’t come from tearing others down; it comes from building something strong enough to stand on its own.

Leading by Example: What Supporting Fellow Veterans Looks Like

Being a veteran-owned business means more than just putting "veteran-owned" on a website or storefront. It means living by the values we swore to uphold.

Supporting fellow veteran businesses can take many forms:

• Referrals and recommendations – If a customer isn’t the right fit for your business but might be for another veteran-owned company, send them that way. It builds goodwill and ensures customers continue supporting the veteran business community.
• Mutual respect in competition – Compete in a way that pushes everyone to be better, without undercutting or sabotaging others.
• Networking and collaboration – Veteran business groups, partnerships, and shared opportunities make everyone stronger.
• Sharing knowledge – The military thrives on training and mentorship. The business world should be no different. Helping another veteran succeed doesn’t weaken your business—it strengthens the entire community.

How Customers and the Business World View Veteran-Owned Businesses

Customers recognize and respect veteran-owned businesses, but they also expect those businesses to operate with the same honor and integrity veterans are known for.

• A divided, cutthroat veteran business community weakens the veteran brand.
• A strong, united front makes veteran-owned businesses more attractive to customers who want to support those who have served.
• Businesses that honor the values of service, loyalty, and teamwork attract more opportunities, partnerships, and long-term success.

Veterans have the chance to redefine business leadership by proving that success doesn’t require undercutting others. It requires lifting each other up.

Last Words

The military teaches us that mission success depends on working together. That lesson doesn’t change just because we hang up the uniform.

In business, as in service, no one succeeds alone. Competition is natural, but unity is powerful. By supporting each other, veteran-owned businesses prove that the values of service don’t end when the uniform comes off.

So, the next time you see a fellow veteran business owner, ask yourself—are you helping them succeed, or are you standing in the way?

The mission continues. Let’s lift each other up.