Veterans Who Acquired a Business: What Translated—and What Didn’t?

December 17, 2025

by a searcher from New York University - Leonard N. Stern School of Business in New York, NY, USA

Searchers with military backgrounds: I’d value your perspective. As a veteran exploring search/acquisition, where did your military experience most help—and where did it not translate as cleanly as expected? Specifically curious about: Leadership transition from command structures to small-business ownership Interacting with sellers, lenders, and investors as a first-time civilian operator Any advantages or blind spots you only recognized after closing Appreciate any candid lessons learned.

Reply by an investor
from University of Virginia in Tampa, FL, USA

Appreciate your service, Willie. We've had the honor of supporting veterans throughout the years. In our most recent bootcamp, an Army veteran was kicking off his search. He's heavily experienced in operations, which will translate into his acquisition, but what he lacked was sales/marketing/growth. Those who recognize gaps like that early on and intentionally build those muscles tend to adapt pretty well after they acquire, especially by incorporating discipline and accountability tuned through life in the military.

Reply by a searcher
from United States Military Academy in Houston, TX, USA

Thanks for the prompt, Luke! Willie, I'd be happy to share insights along these lines. I'll DM you. Dee

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