Momentum builds as the fund launches its third round of funding
MILWAUKEE, Wis. – The Veteran Loan Fund (VLF), a national effort of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and specialized partner organizations, announced that its members have collectively deployed more than $100 million in small business loans to 1,350 veterans and military spouses since launching in 2021. These investments have created or retained more than 7,500 jobs nationwide, demonstrating the potential of this bold initiative. VLF also announced the launch of its third $15 million round of funding, which is expected to support an additional 300 Veteran-owned businesses in 2026.
“WWBIC is proud to provide Veteran Loan Fund capital to help Wisconsin veteran business owners in pursuit of their entrepreneurial dreams,” says Kathryn Dunn, President and Chief Visionary Officer of WWBIC. “We’ve been able to provide $895,000 in loans through the Veteran Loan Fund so far.”
WWBIC has a long history of helping veterans and military spouses start or grow their businesses with loan capital and technical assistance (tailored business coaching and education). Technical assistance is available at no cost, regardless of whether a participant receives a loan. In addition, WWBIC serves as the Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) for all of Wisconsin, Illinois, and Minnesota. Veterans and military spouses with businesses in Wisconsin who are interested in learning more about the VLF can complete a short online assessment at www.veteranloanfund.com. More details on VBOC and other services provided to veterans through WWBIC, like support from the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) can be found at wwbic.com/veterans.
Today’s $100 million milestone marks a significant moment not just for VLF, but for the thousands of veteran entrepreneurs whose businesses fuel local economies across the country. This achievement was made possible by the hundreds of national and local partners, funders, and supporters whose commitment has powered the initiative from the start. Energized by this momentum, VLF and its partners are committed to expanding opportunities for even more veteran-owned businesses in 2026 and beyond.
