VBOC for Puerto Rico & U.S. Virgin Islands
Veteran business services for Puerto Rico and U. S. Virgin Islands.
About
Provides business training, counseling, and resource referrals to veterans, service members, and military spouses in Puerto Rico and the U. S. Virgin Islands.
The Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) for Puerto Rico & U.S. Virgin Islands is a specialized resource hub dedicated to helping veterans, service members, and military spouses launch and grow successful businesses throughout Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. As an SBA-backed VBOC, this center combines the expertise of multiple business support programs—SBDC (Small Business Development Center), SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives), and WBC (Women's Business Center)—to provide comprehensive, free business training and one-on-one counseling tailored to the unique needs of the military community. Services include business plan development, market research guidance, financial planning assistance, access to funding resources, and specialized workshops on topics ranging from startup fundamentals to business expansion strategies. The center serves as a vital bridge connecting veteran entrepreneurs to SBA loan programs, government contracting opportunities, and local business resources specific to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Whether you're transitioning from military service to entrepreneurship or expanding an existing veteran-owned business, this VBOC provides the mentoring, training, and resource referrals needed to navigate the business landscape successfully. All core services are provided at no cost, making professional business guidance accessible to every veteran and military-connected entrepreneur in the region.
Services Offered
Program Type
Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) — SBA-backed multi-program resource center combining SBDC, SCORE, and WBC services
Cost
Free
Services
Free business counseling, business plan development, market research, financial planning, startup training workshops, funding resource referrals, government contracting guidance, business expansion support
Best For
Veterans, service members, military spouses, veteran-owned business startups, and established military-connected businesses in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands
Focus Areas
Impact Areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What services does VBOC for Puerto Rico & U.S. Virgin Islands provide?
The VBOC provides comprehensive business support services including free one-on-one business counseling, business plan development and review, market analysis, financial planning guidance, startup training workshops, and resource referrals to SBA loan programs and funding opportunities. As a combined SBDC, SCORE, and WBC resource center, it delivers specialized expertise across all aspects of business ownership, with particular focus on the unique needs and circumstances of veterans, active-duty service members, and military spouses.
Is VBOC for Puerto Rico & U.S. Virgin Islands free to use?
Yes, all core services provided by the VBOC are completely free. This includes business counseling sessions, training workshops, and resource referrals. The SBA funds this center specifically to ensure that veterans and military-connected entrepreneurs have access to professional business guidance without financial barriers. Some specialized services or advanced training may have nominal fees, but initial consultations and ongoing mentoring are always free.
Who can use VBOC for Puerto Rico & U.S. Virgin Islands?
The VBOC serves veterans of all eras, active-duty service members, Reserve and National Guard members, and military spouses in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. You don't need to be a business owner yet—the center welcomes those exploring entrepreneurship as well as established veteran business owners seeking growth or expansion guidance. There are no income requirements or application fees to access services.
How do I get started with VBOC for Puerto Rico & U.S. Virgin Islands?
Contact the center directly by phone or visit their office in San Juan to schedule your first free consultation. During this initial meeting, a business counselor will assess your business goals, discuss your background and experience, and create a customized plan for the services and resources most beneficial to your situation. You can also attend group workshops and training sessions to begin building your business knowledge. No prior business experience is required to get started.
Last updated: February 27, 2026