Running a Business While Serving in the Military: Navigating the Challenges

Many military service members find themselves intrigued by the idea of combining their service with a side hustle. From running a child daycare center or a beauty business to selling homemade food, there are countless ways to monetize skills and talents while serving. However, doing so comes with a myriad of challenges, including navigating military regulations, balancing time commitments, and ensuring legal compliance.

Personal Experiences in Military Entrepreneurship

Let's explore some personal stories that highlight the complexities of running a business while serving in the military:

SSG and the Child Daycare Center: SSG, a seasoned service member, ran a child daycare center alongside his military duties. This venture not only provided a steady income but also supported the local community. Despite the challenges, it remains a successful business venture. A Different SSG: Another SSG faced a unique challenge when his wife was involved in a potentially illegal and unethical relationship with truckers, leading to their expulsion from the military. Balancing military responsibilities with personal obligations is not always easy. Simple Entrepreneurship: During Advanced Individual Training (AIT) at Fort Leonardwood, Missouri, I lived off-base with my wife. We started selling wrapped pork roasts to fellow soldiers for 50 cents each. While this was a small-scale venture, it provided us with a financial lifeline, even if we were not aware of any potential disciplinary action.

Factors to Consider for Military Entrepreneurship

If you are considering starting a business while serving in the military, here are the key factors you should take into account:

Military Regulations

Each branch of the military has its own set of rules and regulations regarding outside employment. It is critical to ensure that your business activities do not conflict with your military duties or violate any regulations. For example, some branches may require you to obtain a specific permission to start a business. It is essential to be aware of these regulations and to comply with them.

Time Commitment

Military service can be demanding with irregular hours and deployments. You must assess whether you can realistically manage a business alongside your military responsibilities. Balancing these roles requires careful planning and prioritization.

Legal Considerations

Your business must comply with local laws and regulations, including licensing, taxation, and any restrictions related to government contracts or potential conflicts of interest. Consulting with a legal professional can help you navigate these complexities and ensure that you are in compliance.

Support Resources

Many military installations offer resources for service members interested in entrepreneurship. These resources include workshops, mentorship programs, and access to funding through organizations like the Small Business Administration (SBA). Utilizing these resources can provide valuable guidance and support as you embark on your entrepreneurial journey.

Business Structure

Choosing the right business structure, such as a sole proprietorship or LLC, is crucial for protecting your personal assets. Consulting with a legal professional can help you determine the best structure for your business needs and goals.

Networking

Connecting with other military entrepreneurs or organizations that support military business owners can provide invaluable insights and support. Sharing experiences and best practices can help you navigate the challenges of combining military service with entrepreneurship.

Consultation and Compliance

If you are considering starting a business while in the military, it is a good idea to thoroughly research your options and consult with your chain of command or a legal advisor to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations. This can help prevent potential disciplinary action and ensure that you can successfully manage your dual roles.