Pathway to Assist Veteran Entrepreneurs

Offers Louisiana veterans and military-connected entrepreneurs a structured path to launch and grow a business

In partnership with Louisiana Economic Development, the Louisiana Small Business Development Center Network, and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs, PAVE provides a structured, step-by-step experience for aspiring and existing business owners.

PAVE is a six-session program that helps participants strengthen the core areas of their business, including market research, marketing, operations, financial planning and business structure. Between sessions, participants work one-on-one with Louisiana SBDC consultants to apply what they are learning directly to their business.

The program concludes with the PAVE Veteran Business Showcase, where participants present their business, connect with veteran-focused resource partners and engage with fellow entrepreneurs.

Eligibility

The Pathway to Assist Veteran Entrepreneurs is designed for Louisiana active-duty service members, reservists, veterans and military spouses who are ready to start, grow or strengthen a business.

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The Process

Interested military personnel (Active duty, Reservists, Veterans) should complete the application and pay a registration fee of $15.

1

Apply for PAVE through the Louisiana Small Business Development Center (LSBDC).

2

Participate and complete the six, guided training sessions covering essential business topics

3

Work with an LSBDC consultant between sessions to apply the material to your business.

4

Develop the key components of your business plan, including your market approach, operations and financial projections.

5

Prepare to clearly communicate your business, vision and plan.

6

Present your business at the PAVE Veteran Business Showcase and connect with resource partners and fellow entrepreneurs.

1

Apply for PAVE through the Louisiana Small Business Development Center (LSBDC).

2

Participate and complete the six, guided training sessions covering essential business topics

3

Work with an LSBDC consultant between sessions to apply the material to your business.

4

Develop the key components of your business plan, including your market approach, operations and financial projections.

5

Prepare to clearly communicate your business, vision and plan.

6

Present your business at the PAVE Veteran Business Showcase and connect with resource partners and fellow entrepreneurs.

FAQs

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What military status is eligible to participate?

PAVE is designed for Louisiana active-duty service members, reservists, veterans and military spouses.

What will I learn through PAVE?

Participants build and assess their business foundation; identify their target market and customers; develop marketing approaches; create budgets and financial projections; explore operations and business structure; and strengthen their ability to present a business plan.

What happens at the end of the program?

Participants take part in the PAVE Veteran Business Showcase, where they can present their business, connect with veteran-focused resource partners and build relationships with fellow entrepreneurs.

Small Business Services

Please reach out to LED’s Small Business Services department for more information about the program.