Second Service Foundation (formerly StreetShares Foundation)

National 501(c)(3) supporting military and veteran entrepreneurs, renamed from the StreetShares Foundation. Best known for the Military Entrepreneur Challenge — a live pitch-competition format in which veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and military spouses present their business concepts to a panel of judges and compete for grant awards typically ranging from $1,000 to $15,000, judged on business concept, community impact, and need. Applicants must own at least 51% of their business. Note: this is a grant and pitch-competition program, not a lender — it does not issue business loans. Veterans seeking debt capital should work through an SBA Veterans Business Outreach Center, which can refer them to SBA loan programs and vetted lenders.

• Visit Second Service Foundation (formerly StreetShares Foundation)