Giving Compass' Take:

• Mark L. Rockefeller offers suggestions as to how you can invest in military entrepreneurs through nonprofits, support groups, or even just patronizing veteran-owned businesses. 

• What skills might veterans have that others don't that might help them pursue effective careers in entrepreneurship?

• Read about programs that specifically help veterans move into entrepreneurial careers. 

You and I have the capacity to make a huge impact in the lives of veteran business owners, and the nearly 6 million people they employ. Don't just thank a veteran, invest in one.

  1. Direct Equity or Debt Investment: As you do your investment analysis, give veterans a few extra bonus points. Veterans have the most powerful intangible key to success – grit. They will get the job done, and you will get good returns.
  2. Fund Military Veteran Entrepreneurs via Nonprofits: There’s no shortage of nonprofit groups serving veterans out there asking for your money. You should vet these groups and give as you see fit.
  3. Invest Through Intermediaries: For those who are qualified to invest in venture funds there are several veteran capital funds focused on military veterans.
  4. Support Groups that Mentor or Train Military Veterans in Entrepreneurship: If you are at a large company, encourage your corporate giving department to support these training programs
  5. Mentor Directly: Ultimately, veterans need you: your time, your connections, and your ideas.
  6. Patronize Veteran-owned Businesses.

Read the full article on investing in veterans by Mark L. Rockefeller at Forbes.