When leaving the Armed Forces, the transition from military to civilian life can be a significant journey and it can take many paths for veterans.
One option often chosen is entrepreneurship – starting a business offers veterans the opportunity to channel their unique skills and experiences into building something of their own. At Start Up Loans, in partnership with X-Forces Enterprise, we are proud to support veterans and their families in this transition, providing the funding and guidance they need to turn their ideas into thriving businesses.
The Armed Forces community possess a unique set of skills that make them exceptionally well-suited to entrepreneurship. Their military training instils qualities like resilience and adaptability, and veterans are accustomed to overcoming challenges and adapting to new situations – traits that are essential in business owners. Their ability to lead and collaborate within a team, and their aptitude for planning and executing complex operations, are also skills that are invaluable when running a business.
These strengths, combined with their determination and sense of purpose, give veterans a strong foundation for success in the business world. At Start Up Loans, we recognise the potential of the Armed Forces community as entrepreneurs and are committed to helping them succeed. Since partnering with X-Forces Enterprise in 2013 we have delivered just short of £40 million in funding to ex-service personnel and their families.
This funding can be a lifeline to the military community who may face barriers to accessing traditional finance. Our loans provide an accessible and affordable solution, enabling entrepreneurs to invest in their business ideas and turn them into reality.
Army veteran Colin Smith took out a £15,000 loan with X-Forces in 2023 to establish Down Range Axe Throwing in Gosport – a premier destination for axe-throwing enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike. The venue features five state-of-the-art axe and knife throwing lanes, designed to prioritise customer safety while delivering a fun and competitive experience. A team of experienced instructors is on hand to guide visitors through proper technique and form.
“The support we received from X-Forces was invaluable in helping us get the business off the ground, and we’re incredibly proud to have turned our vision into a reality. Most of our team comes from a military background, including frontline operations in Afghanistan, this brings a high level of discipline, teamwork, and hands-on expertise. Since launching, we’ve expanded to include a rage room and an indoor paintball range – offering even more adrenaline-fueled activities for anyone looking for something different, exciting, and memorable.”
But our support doesn’t stop at funding. X-Forces Enterprise, along with the programme’s other partners, play a crucial role in supporting the Armed Forces community on their entrepreneurial journey. Their fully funded services include training, mentoring and resources designed to equip aspiring business owners with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in self-employment. From developing a business plan to managing finances, our comprehensive support helps ensure that loan recipients have the tools and confidence they need to succeed.
Another founder to receive a loan from X-Forces Enterprise is Jamie Cleland, owner of hot sauce business Big Jim’s Kitchen, which instils the flavours of Scotland into delicious sauces including their Hot Toddy and Irn Bru & Whisky flavours.
“Big Jim’s was born out of passion, creativity and a love for bold flavour – but to turn that vision into a real business, we needed belief and backing. Thanks to the incredible support from X-Forces and Start-Up Loans, we got the funding and the confidence to launch something truly special. Now, we’re bottling the spirit of Scotland – one whisky-infused sauce at a time.”
As we celebrate Armed Forces Day, let’s recognise the importance of creating an environment where the military community can succeed. By supporting veterans in their transition to civilian life, we can unlock their potential as entrepreneurs and help them build fulfilling and successful careers.
At Start Up Loans, we remain committed to empowering the Armed Forces community -veterans and their families – by providing them with funding and mentoring through our partnership with X-Forces Enterprise. Together, we can provide the support needed to succeed in business and make a positive impact on the UK economy.
Along with X-Forces we have created a business guide especially for veterans, this can be found here: https://x-forces.com/funding/
