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The US arm of sign-making franchisor Fastsigns has announced an 'expanded initiative' to help war veterans build new careers, following its commitment to recruit almost 200 former soldiers as part of Operation Enduring Opportunity last year. Fastsigns chief executive Catherine Monson will today (June 28th) introduce a free online Veterans Franchise (VetFran) Toolkit and Mentor Network to help ex-servicemen and women enter the world of franchising.

The USA-wide effort to recruit more than 75,000 veterans and 5,000 'wounded warriors' before 2014 has already seen upwards of 6,200 veterans and spouses begin careers in franchising, says Fastsigns. The toolkit, which includes online training and financial assessments, is expected to encourage even more ex-military personnel to take the plunge.

Monson comments: "With unemployment rates among veterans hovering around nearly 18 percent, continuous education is critical in helping veterans transition into a civilian lifestyle."

A number of franchise organisations have signed up to the VetFran Toolkit and Mentor Network in collaboration with the International Franchise Association, which says its participating members are 'setting the right example for our industry and our entire nation'.