INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Indiana's program to target state contracts to veteran-owned businesses has had a slow start during its first year.
State figures show that about 1 percent of those contracts have gone to Veterans Business Enterprises, while Gov. Mike Pence set a 3 percent goal when the push started last summer.
The Journal Gazette reports that eight veteran-owned businesses have received contracts totaling $811,000.
Indiana Department of Administration spokeswoman Connie Smith says it can take six months or longer for contracts to be awarded, so it will take time to reach the 3 percent threshold.
Army veteran Garry Schaaf says he's looking into the state program for his Fort Wayne business Ross Development. He thinks the program's intent is good but that an education campaign is needed.
