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These Are the Best Franchises for Veterans in 2024 — And Startup Cost Can Be As Low as $3,000 These top franchises provide exclusive incentives and customized programs to help veterans become franchisees.

By Carl Stoffers Edited by Jessica Thomas

Key Takeaways

  • The top franchises on this list offer exclusive incentives and specialized programs to ease veterans’ transition into franchise ownership.
  • Veterans have access to various franchise opportunities, from automotive and home improvement to travel and wellness.
  • With initial investments ranging from as low as $3,000 up to $1.9 million, these franchises provide flexible entry points for veterans at different financial levels.

Veterans bring unique skills and dedication to the table, making them ideal candidates for franchise ownership. To recognize and support veterans transitioning into business ownership, these top franchises offer exclusive incentives and tailored programs that make it easier for them to become franchisees. Here are the top 10 franchises committed to empowering veterans in 2024, according to our 2024 Franchise 500 listing.

Related: Considering franchise ownership? Get started now to find your personalized list of franchises that match your lifestyle, interests and budget.

1. Snap-on Tools

With a strong reputation for quality tools and equipment, Snap-on Tools leads the 2024 list. Known for its professional-grade products, this franchise is an excellent fit for veterans looking to enter a stable industry. Snap-on offers substantial incentives for veterans, with initial investments ranging from $218,000 to $482,000.

2. The UPS Store

As a leader in shipping, packing and other essential services, The UPS Store allows veterans to serve local communities in high-demand service areas. With an initial investment between $101,000 and $496,000, this franchise offers comprehensive support and a track record of success.

Related: The International Franchise Association Tops the 2024 Trade Association Rankings — Here's What It's Doing Right

3. Dream Vacations

Dream Vacations offers an affordable and flexible entry point for veterans interested in the travel industry, with startup costs ranging from $3,000 to $22,000. The franchise provides extensive training and support, making it an attractive choice for veterans looking for low overhead and high flexibility.

4. Matco Tools

Matco Tools specializes in mobile sales of mechanic tools and equipment, allowing veterans to leverage hands-on skills and experience. With an initial investment range of $107,000 to $340,000, Matco Tools is a solid choice for veterans interested in the automotive industry.

Related: The Critical First 100 Days of Onboarding — What You're Likely Overlooking That Could Make or Break Your New Hire

5. FastSigns

Veterans looking for a creative business option will find FastSigns appealing, as it focuses on graphics, signs and visual solutions. An initial investment between $248,000 and $345,000 provides veterans access to a growing industry with strong franchise support.

6. Tropical Smoothie Cafe

For veterans passionate about health and wellness, Tropical Smoothie Cafe offers a fresh take on franchise ownership. With investments ranging from $300,000 to $721,000, this franchise combines high customer demand with a vibrant brand.

Related: Tropical Smoothie Cafe Names New CEO, Bringing a New Strategic Growth Vision to the Franchise

7. Grease Monkey

With a focus on automotive maintenance and repair, Grease Monkey appeals to veterans interested in vehicle services. The initial investment ranges from $252,000 to $821,000, offering a pathway to ownership in a hands-on and essential service industry.

8. Big O Tires

Big O Tires offers veterans a foothold in the tire and auto services market, with startup costs ranging from $512,000 to $1.9 million. This franchise provides comprehensive support and a trusted brand name, ideal for veterans looking to make an impact in automotive services.

Related: Learn the Secrets of Running 20+ Businesses as a Side Hustle — Finding and Nurturing Your 'STIC People'

9. Budget Blinds

For those interested in home improvement, Budget Blinds offers veterans the chance to work in an established brand with an investment of $101,000 to $211,000. It's a flexible and customizable business model with products including window coverings, rugs and accessories.

10. PuroClean

PuroClean, specializing in property damage restoration, offers veterans a way to serve communities during difficult times. This franchise has a comparatively low initial investment, ranging from $96,000 to $246,000, and provides extensive support to help veterans transition successfully into the industry.

Related: See The Entrepreneur 2024 Top Franchise Supplier List

These top franchises offer unique advantages tailored to veterans, from hands-on industries to service-based opportunities. These franchises recognize the dedication and skills veterans bring to business ownership by providing specialized incentives and support.

Carl Stoffers

Entrepreneur Staff

Senior Business Editor

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

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