Supporting Veterans in Business with VBP

After his six-year Army service ended, Devin St. Pierre felt uncertain. While he had been part of a logistics team and an aviation unit maintaining Black Hawk helicopters, these skills didn’t translate easily to civilian life. As a sheet-metal mechanic, he realized the need for a new direction.

St. Pierre, residing in Aurora, has found guidance through the Veteran Business Project (VBP) based in Naperville. VBP assists veterans in acquiring skills to launch or own businesses. Earlier this month, it earned the 2026 Fisher Service Award for Military Community Service from the Fisher House Foundation. This recognition highlights innovative programs enhancing the lives of military personnel and veterans.

Mission of the Veteran Business Project

VBP aims to lower the veteran unemployment rate, which is higher than the general population’s rate. The organization believes veterans possess valuable qualities like discipline, teamwork, and mission focus that foster entrepreneurial success.

Veterans and diners at Rosie’s Home Cookin’ in Naperville can discover VBP’s offerings on November 9, 2026. The organization connects veterans with business coaches who provide insights on staff management, finances, customer service, purchasing, and more. VBP’s Living Business School offers practical experience in these areas for veterans, military members, and spouses.

How the Program Functions

St. Pierre, who studied business in college and has logistical experience from the Army, initially worked in a factory with stagnant wages. Seeking growth, he turned to carpentry, painting, and artistry, creating furniture and cabinets.

He seeks support to grow his business, including learning about subcontracting, client acquisition, and networking. What’s unique about VBP, he explains, is the camaraderie with fellow veterans. “After leaving the service, I felt isolated. Engaging with others at Rosie’s helps me build my communication skills,” St. Pierre shared.

Connecting Veterans with Opportunities

VBP President and Co-founder Dale Eisenberg highlights the relational nature of veterans. Not everyone is suited for starting a business, so VBP launched VHarmony to connect veterans with business sellers.

While Eisenberg has a 50-year restaurant background, Co-founder and CEO Lynn Lowder served 16 years in the Marine Corps. After WWII, around 49% of veterans started businesses. Post-9/11, it fell below 5%.

Access to capital remains a challenge for veterans. Previously, local bankers knew veterans and might take a chance on them. Currently, many baby boomer business owners are retiring without successors, presenting purchase opportunities for veterans.

Beyond Business Training

Lowder shares that VBP’s support extends beyond business skills. The charity’s mission has evolved to “Offering Hope and Saving Lives.” It addresses veteran suicide by fostering trust and recognizing when someone needs help. Mentors connect veterans to resources like PTSD-focused groups.

“Participants find realizable hope for their future. They can be their own bosses, run companies, and support fellow veterans. This instills a reason to persevere,” Lowder emphasized.