One of the most important stories I've covered in recent years is the work being done by a number of
amazing associations, including Enactus at Memorial University, Futurepreneur
and the Prince’s Charities Canada to train armed forces veterans to become more
effective entrepreneurs.
You’ve read the stories. You know that members of Canada’s armed
forces are retiring and returning to civilian life at a rate unmatched in 60 years. You know the unemployment rate of veterans is unacceptably high. Many face traumatic stress issues in returning
to “normal” life and finding a conventional job. For many, the best answer is entrepreneurship:
starting a business that allows them to leverage the talents, skills and
discipline they’ve learned in their years serving on Canada’s front lines.
“Based in Business” is an amazing week-long bootcamp for entrepreneurially-minded
veterans. This summer there are three cohorts – in Quebec City, St. John’s.,
and Regina. But these programs, with their emphasis on personal help and
one-to-one mentoring, can only help a few of the thousands who need this information
and motivation.
I want to write a book about the Based in Business program.
It will cover the entrepreneurial basics of the course, as well as tell the
stories of some of the amazing people who are rebuilding their lives after a
career of public service.
The working title of this ebook is "Startups for Heroes." And I want it to go to every veteran or military
member who wants it – for free.
That’s why I'm asking for your help. Through crowdfunding, people
who believe in worthwhile, pro-social activities can step up and support programs
they believe in. In return for your support, you can get a free copy of the ebook,
a hard copy, or even your name in the book. Or even two months’ coaching from me
at an deep-discount price. Because I believe in this cause and want to finish
this book – yet pay the mortgage, too.
I have dedicated my career to small business and entrepreneurs
because entrepreneurship is the most powerful tool we have for self-improvement,
personal empowerment and economic development. With this project, entrepreneurship also becomes
a much-needed solution for Canada’s greatest heroes: the men and women of the military
who now want to start over and make their own way in civilian life and business.
They need our support. Please help
me help them.