Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurs: ATI Foundation Partners with Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce
When military service ends, the transition to civilian life often comes with new challenges—and new potential. For many veterans, that next chapter includes launching a business, bringing discipline, innovation, and leadership to the private sector. The ATI Foundation is proud to be part of that journey.
In partnership with the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce, the ATI Foundation is supporting efforts that make veteran entrepreneurship not just a possibility—but a powerful driver of economic strength in our region.
Why Veteran Entrepreneurship Matters
Veterans bring more than experience to the table. They bring solutions. With the right tools—mentorship, funding, training—they can turn bold ideas into thriving businesses. And when those businesses succeed, communities grow stronger.
But the reality is, many veteran entrepreneurs face early roadblocks:
Limited access to startup capital
Lack of business network connections
Difficulty navigating civilian regulatory and workforce systems
Not Just Support—Enablement
That’s where the ATI Foundation comes in. This partnership focuses on:
Expanding access to business development programs for veterans
Creating connections between veteran-owned startups and the regional business ecosystem
Supporting mentorship pathways and technical upskilling tied to high-demand industries
The goal is simple: remove barriers, build connections, and unlock the potential of those who’ve already given so much.
“Veterans are already trained to lead under pressure and solve complex challenges—skills our communities and industries desperately need. Supporting veteran entrepreneurs isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s a national security imperative. When we help veterans build businesses, we’re reinforcing local resilience, strengthening the talent pipeline, and ensuring our country remains innovative and self-reliant in the face of future challenges.”
— Dolly Pelto, Executive Director, ATI Foundation