Leaving the service means deciding what comes next, and for many veterans, that next step is business ownership. Franchising offers an appealing path to entrepreneurship, because it provides the roadmap for a model that already works, with training and a recognized brand behind you. That means you can put your energy into running the business, not inventing it from scratch.
The best franchises for veterans offer time-tested systems, structured training, and steady demand while making the most of the skills you honed during military service.
Why Veterans Succeed in Franchise Ownership
Franchising rewards what the military builds. You must follow standard operating procedures without cutting corners, lead a dedicated team, stay calm under pressure, and deliver the same brand experience every day.
In fact, 97% of franchisors say veterans make excellent owners, and veterans themselves report high satisfaction: 83% enjoy operating their business, 73% would recommend franchising to others, and 39% already own more than one location. According to the International Franchise Association (IFA), veterans make up about 14% of all franchisees and are often cited by franchisors as an “over-performing segment” of their owners.
Understanding VetFran Discounts
VetFran is the IFA’s veteran incentive program, with more than 600 participating brands offering discounts to people who served. The discount usually applies to the initial franchise fee, not to build-out, equipment, or working capital.
Fastest Labs participates in VetFran and offers qualified veterans a 10% discount on the initial franchise fee of $59,500. The total estimated initial investment for a Fastest Labs franchise ranges from $130,500 to $199,500, with your actual costs depending on factors such as real estate and insurance costs for your territory.
Why a Drug Testing Franchise is a Great Fit for Veterans
The term “lab testing” can throw people off, but owning a Fastest Labs location requires no medical training, no clinical license, and no blood draws. Instead, the model rewards what veterans already do well. Testing is compliance-driven work, and growth comes from building steady relationships with local employers, which fits anyone trained to follow a process and lead a small team.
It’s also one of the most recession-resilient franchise opportunities. Demand for lab testing services remains steady thanks to DOT compliance requirements, employer screenings, and court-ordered testing, which exist regardless of economic conditions. The drug testing industry is worth about $7 billion, and the work runs on regular business hours, with nights, weekends, and holidays off.
What Fastest Labs Franchise Ownership Looks Like
Day to day, you’ll run a small team and spend most of your time building relationships. Owners find steady business with local employers, HR partners, and DOT-regulated fleets that need testing done quickly and correctly.
The Fastest Labs corporate team provides comprehensive training and ongoing support, so you’re set up for success from day one. Our owners value the ability to control their own schedule, achieve real work-life balance, and build something that is truly theirs.
Franchise Financing Options
Most veterans finance their franchise investment the same way other owners do. The SBA 7(a) loan program is a common path, open to veterans on the same terms as other qualified applicants. The SBA and Department of Defense also run Boots to Business, a free entrepreneurship course for transitioning service members and military spouses.
Ready to Explore Fastest Labs Franchise Ownership?
For veterans exploring franchise opportunities, Fastest Labs pairs a proven, non-medical model with an economically resilient industry and a VetFran discount for those who served.
If that aligns with the future you’re planning, speak with our franchise development team to see if your desired territory is available.
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