Military to Millionaire! How Veterans Are Launching Thriving Small Businesses - with Brandon Eldridge of Pikes Peak SBDC

Welcome to Season 2 Episode 2 of the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery In this episode of the Militarily Speaking podcast, we sit down with Brandon Eldridge, Executive Director of the Pike’s Peak Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Brandon shares how small businesses – especially veteran-owned and military spouse small businesses – can access the tools, funding, and financial education they need to thrive. Learn about the upcoming 18th Annual Veteran Small Business Conference, the impact of AI in business strategy, and the importance of a well-thought-out business plan. “Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes the military community who they are. Military to Millionaire! How Veterans Are Launching Thriving Small Businesses - with Brandon Eldridge of Pikes Peak SBDC With over 25 years of management experience in technology, banking, and retail, Brandon has dedicated his career to helping entrepreneurs succeed. Since becoming Executive Director in 2023, he has worked tirelessly to strengthen the Colorado Springs business community. Under his leadership, the Pike’s Peak SBDC continues to empower veteran-owned businesses and local entrepreneurs with free consulting, workshops, and access to small business loans and funding programs. Supporting Veteran-Owned Small Business Growth As Brandon explains, the Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) serve as vital partners for entrepreneurs seeking to start or expand their businesses. From developing business plans and marketing strategies to finding loans for veteran-owned businesses, these centers help transform ideas into sustainable enterprises. The conversation then turns to one of the most common challenges faced by small business owners – access to capital. Brandon outlines how entrepreneurs can leverage veteran business funding programs, community partnerships, and financial institutions like Armed Forces Bank, which supports military banking solutions tailored to business needs. Technology, AI, and Cybersecurity in Business Brandon also shares insights into the growing role of AI and cybersecurity in today’s business environment. He explains how emerging technologies can streamline operations, improve data security, and enhance decision-making. These tools, he notes, are particularly valuable for small businesses looking to scale efficiently – an essential step toward long-term financial stability and independence. Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurs and Military Spouses With Colorado Springs’ strong military presence, the Pike’s Peak SBDC proudly serves veteran entrepreneurs and military spouses pursuing small business ownership. Brandon discusses their upcoming Veterans Small Business Conference, designed to connect veterans with mentorship, networking opportunities, and resources for business growth. These programs often highlight veteran business funding options and practical ways to secure small business loans for veterans looking to build or expand their ventures. For military spouses, Brandon emphasizes the importance of flexibility and resilience, acknowledging how frequent relocations can make traditional careers challenging. Programs like those offered by the SBDC help military families achieve economic empowerment through entrepreneurship. The Future of Veteran Owned Small Business DevelopmentAs the conversation wraps up, Brandon offers his perspective on the evolving landscape of small business ownership. He encourages aspiring business owners to seek out trusted advisors, explore military banking resources, and stay proactive about financial literacy – key elements for sustained business success. To learn more about small business resources, upcoming events, and how to get involved, visit the Pike’s Peak SBDC website. Military MinuteThe Military Minute giveaway offers listeners like you a chance to show off your military and life knowledge. Winners receive $50 for themselves and a charity of their choice!For giveaway details or to enter, visit the Militarily Speaking Podcast Facebook page and find this episodes’ Military Minute post! After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months. ·      Last episode’s Military Minute: What is the name of the podcast with the most episodes published and how many episodes are there?·      Answer: Too Beautiful to Live – 6643 episodes·      This week’s Military Minute question(s):  According to the SBAs Office of Advocacy. How many veteran owned businesses are there in the United States in 2024?·      Watch for this weeks’ Military Minute post on the Militarily Speaking Facebook page.·      Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.·      After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months. Tom closes the episode by asking listeners to go to www.afbank.com and subscribe to the show, as well as leave a rating and comment on your favorite podcast platform such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Join us to hear how to better navigate your finances, military life, and the crossroads of the two. Visit www.afbank.com