"Nearly $1 trillion in contracts are available to veterans nationwide that are entrepreneurs," said Angela Shinn, assistant deputy director, Arizona Department of Veterans' Services, Veterans Business Advocate Group. The problem, Shinn said, is that many vets aren't aware of them.

At the Arizona Veterans' Small Business Conference, taking place on June 11 and 12, 2008, veterans will learn how to maximize contract procurement for their businesses. The conference, which will be held at the Fort McDowell Resort and Casino in Scottsdale, Arizona, will include discussions, workshops and seminars on networking, partnering and marketing your business. More details and registration information can be found on their website.

Another great resource is the Center for Veterans Enterprise (CVE). Their website not only lists upcoming events and conferences like the one above, but also provides basic tips and resources for starting a business, in addition to business coaching and franchise opportunities.--Whitney Chen