Veteran Advance: Helping promote businesses owned by Vets and active CAF members

Their mission is to “advance the economic prosperity of veterans” through the way of an online business directory by advertising and promoting businesses and services owned by active Canadian military, veterans and their spouses.

Launched in October 2017, Veteran Advance now has almost 150 businesses and services listed on their directory, but founder Mark Lolacher said it’s much more than that. In addition to the online directory, Veteran Advance has a Facebook following of over 2,000 members who are dedicated to upholding Lolacher’s mission to helping veterans further their business ventures.

Being a veteran himself, Lolacher understands the transition period from Military to civilian life and felt there was a need to connect with others facing the same challenges.

“We could achieve this connection by supporting veteran-owned businesses. By supporting businesses owned by current serving members, veterans and spouses, we can achieve our goal of building a mutually supportive economic community,” he said.
Lolacher said he does what he does out of love for his community and supporting his community and veteran-owned businesses. By supporting any of these businesses, Lolacher said you will receive quality services and products. He adds that many of the businesses listed in their directory, also give back to charities that support other causes found within the greater veteran community.

“Further, many of these companies also hire veterans. So, the choice is simple, support veterans and create veteran prosperity,” he said.
Lolacher said they’re always looking to add to their growing business directory and online community. If you or someone you know runs a veteran-owned business, he invites you to add the business to the website, or through their Facebook page.

“They can gain exposure through our social media pages, network with other veteran business owners, and take part in our growing community,” said Lolacher. “Together we will foster a culture of economic, mutual support that leads toward a more prosperous future for CAF veterans.”