Entrepreneurship Courses for Service Leavers & Veterans
Barracks to Boardroom CIC
Who the course is for
Is this for you?
This programme is designed for:
Service leavers planning their next chapter
Veterans looking to start or grow a business
Military spouses and partners who want flexible work on their own terms
Reservists balancing service with civilian life
You don’t need a business degree or a fully formed idea – just the willingness to learn, get stuck in and take action.
What you’ll learn (12 steps)
What we cover in 12 steps
Our 10-week programme guides you step-by-step from idea to action. Each stage is designed specifically for service leavers, veterans, spouses and reservists — translating military strengths into real business skills
1
Welcome & Orientation
Connect with your cohort, meet the team and get clear on what the next 10 weeks will look like. Explore the opportunities available to the Armed Forces community in business.
2
Military to Civilian Mindset Shift
Understand the key differences between military and civilian work culture, law and expectations — and how to build a confident entrepreneurial mindset.
3
Leadership & Your Strengths
Translate your military leadership, resilience and teamwork experience into real business advantages.
4
The Big Idea Canvas
Explore your business idea, clarify the opportunity and take your first steps toward a practical business plan.
5
Your USP, Product & Customer
Refine what you’re offering, identify your target audience, and understand what makes your idea stand out.
6
Marketing & Branding Basics
Learn how to promote your business, build your brand and communicate your story effectively.
7
Sales Skills & Customer Engagement
Gain confidence selling your product or service and learn how to turn conversations into customers.
8
Finance & Cashflow Essentials
Understand pricing, budgeting, bookkeeping and funding options for veterans, families and start-ups.
9
Operations & Day-to-Day Running
Learn how to manage resources, systems, suppliers and time to keep your business running effectively.
10
Legal Essentials
Get to grips with business structures, compliance, contracts, policies and keeping yourself protected.
11
Digital Tools & Online Presence
Build a simple online presence and learn the basic digital tools that save you time and support growth.
12
Final Pitching & Graduation
Present your business with confidence, share your progress and celebrate your next chapter.
How the course runs
How it works
Duration:
10 weeks
Format:
Both in-person and online
Time commitment:
Approximately 3 hours per week (sessions + self-study)
Group size:
Small cohorts to keep things personal and supportive
Support:
Workshops, 1-to-1 check-ins and a supportive peer network
What you’ll walk away with
By the end of the course you’ll have
A clear business idea that plays to your strengths
A practical business plan and next-step roadmap
A better understanding of finance, marketing and sales
Increased confidence in yourself outside of uniform
A network of like-minded veterans, spouses and supporters
Join an upcoming cohort
We run regular cohorts throughout the year. Spaces are limited to keep things focused and supportive