Service–disabled veteran Hernán Luis y Prado sold everything he and his wife Rachel owned to start VetPowered and provide America with advanced manufacturing as well as veterans with training and jobs. Gross sales hit the millions, and he says he wouldn’t be in business without the SBA and its resource partners like the SBDC.

Hernán started VetPowered to fund a nonprofit that would lessen the challenging transition from military service to finding a fair wage-paying career. The nonprofit “Workshops for Warriors” prepares veterans and wounded warriors for advanced manufacturing careers.

VetPowered secured 504 and 7(a) SBA loans to purchase their first manufacturing facility in San Diego’s Barrio Logan neighborhood. Sales and credit grew, and they were able to secure a private loan. They later earned 8(a) certification, which helped them increase their sales significantly.

When the pandemic hit, VetPowered rallied and started pivoting with the SBDC and SBA’s help. The business was able to obtain an EIDL loan, which allowed the purchase of equipment needed to maintain operations and a competitive edge. They also obtained two PPP draws with forgiveness, allowing them to maintain as well as grow operations by subsidizing payroll to keep all staff members throughout the pandemic without decreasing hours or pay. Hernán was also able to refinance business debt and purchase space for a training center, corporate office, and other facilities. They now own 145,000 sq. ft. of property spanning five city blocks in Barrio Logan, a HUBZone.

Hernán kept all employees and hired two new ones. He transitioned training events online as well as redesigned the website for selling products and services. VetPowered also created a new division manufacturing and selling VetPowered branded parts online. Hernán purchased three properties in 18 months; these included an apartment building to house evicted employees and workshop attendees as well as a restaurant, which he turned into a commissary for feeding employees, attendees, and neighborhood residents. This veteran is a visionary as well as an award-winning leader, entrepreneur, and philanthropist.

Learn more about this inspiring, award-winning business at vetpowered.com!

Plus read the latest news story on our website about Hernán winning SBA California’s “Small Business Person of the Year” Award! You can also check out the press conference video recording from May 5 during National Small Business Week:

1:1 business advising
8(a) certification obtained

Capital infusion
New and sustained jobs
Increased sales

San Diego, CA 92133

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