In 1991, following the end of the Gulf War, U.S. Air Force Veteran Don Dwyer Sr., launched a mission that would change the trajectory of Veteran entrepreneurship. As founder of The Dwyer Group, now known as Neighborly, Don recognized the barriers many service members faced when transitioning to civilian life. He believed franchising could provide a proven path to business ownership with structure, support and community built in.
From that vision, VetFran was born.
This year is especially meaningful as we celebrate the 35th anniversary of VetFran alongside the United States Semiquincentennial. It is a powerful reminder of Neighborly’s long-standing commitment to helping Veteran-owned businesses thrive.
A Mission Rooted in Service
VetFran’s mission is simple: to lead franchising in supporting transitioning military personnel and current Veterans as they pursue business ownership. At its core, the program exists to reduce the friction Veterans may experience when exploring entrepreneurship and to provide meaningful opportunities for long-term success.
Since its inception, the impact has been significant:
- Neighborly’s franchise brands have awarded more than $3 million in discounts to more than 400 Veteran franchise owners
- 500+ franchisors across the country participate in the VetFran program
- Over 6,500 Veterans have stepped into franchise ownership through VetFran
These numbers reflect more than financial incentives, they represent lives changed, communities strengthened and a legacy of military thriving through small business ownership.
Why Veterans Excel in Franchising
Veterans bring a unique set of skills that translate naturally into franchise success. Leadership, operational discipline, accountability and mission-driven focus are hallmarks of military service, and they are equally valuable in business. In fact, one out of seven franchise businesses is owned and operated by a military Veteran. According to research conducted for the International Franchise Association Educational Foundation based on U.S. Census data, more than 66,000 Veteran-owned franchise businesses directly employ 815,000 Americans and generate more than $41 billion in GDP.
Franchising provides a structured model with established systems, training and both franchisor and peer support, all elements that align well with the collaborative and process-driven environments Veterans are accustomed to. For many, it becomes a natural next chapter returning to civilian life: a new mission with the backing of a trusted brand.
How Neighborly Supports Veteran-Owned Franchise Owners
As a proud founding partner of VetFran, Neighborly remains deeply committed to supporting Veteran franchise owners and associates across its family of home service brands.
Neighborly brands offer:
- A 15% discount off the franchise fee for the initial base territory purchase
- Special vendor incentives for qualified Veterans
- Comprehensive training and operational support
- Ongoing peer collaboration within a values-driven network
Beyond financial incentives, Neighborly’s culture emphasizes teamwork, integrity and service. These principles resonate strongly with military Veterans. From the initial discovery process to grand opening and beyond, Veteran franchise owners are supported by experienced teams who understand both the franchising model and the transition from military to civilian life.
The result? Veteran-owned businesses that are not only operationally strong, but deeply rooted in their local communities.
Building a Legacy of Military Thriving
For 35 years, VetFran has stood as a testament to what is possible when service-minded leadership meets entrepreneurial opportunity. What began as one Veteran’s vision has grown into a nationwide movement supporting thousands of small business owners.
As Neighborly celebrates this milestone year in tangent with America’s 250th birthday, the focus remains clear. The goal is not simply to honor the past, but to continue expanding access to franchise ownership for those who have served.
Veterans have dedicated their careers to protecting and strengthening our country. Through franchising, many are building new legacies, creating jobs, serving customers and investing back into their communities.
That is what military thriving looks like.
Ready to turn your service into business ownership? Neighborly is proud to stand alongside Veterans who are ready to lead, serve their communities and build lasting legacies. Learn more about the VetFran program and available incentives.