Many military spouses own home-based businesses or small businesses in the local community. Are your interests in cosmetics? Home decorating? Consignment? Kitchen fun? Kid's toys? Healthy products? Whatever floats your boat, there is a corresponding industry just waiting for you to make your business out of their product/service! Maybe you run a daycare from your home or do medical transcription? There are so many ways to stay home and work. But did you know that the government is looking out for your business?
I went to a meeting, sponsored again by our local OH guard units - thank you for letting an Air Force wife in for the day! - and representatives of the local Small Business Administration were on hand to discuss the new programs the government is putting in place for service members and their spouses. It is a world, right now, that is 'catering' to the troops. Certain percentages of the overall government contracts let in any given year have to go to service member owned businesses. The government wants to help the troops and is supporting their small business efforts.
Most of the programs are geared toward the service member, but many also include the spouse. Do some homework - it may be worth more than you think! If you need to take out a small business loan - look into the Patriot Express loan. Ask about the local SCORE program. It's a group of retired business members who are willing to help you work through your business problems and help you succeed! Some areas have Small Business Development Centers or Women's Business Centers. The entire briefing made my head spin! So much information and opportunities available!
If you or your spouse are interested in starting your own business, take advantage of the opportunities provided by the SBA! They are anxious to help. Even if you find yourself ready to enter the work force for someone else - they have some great resume-making tips that might help you land that perfect job!
