VeCATS has been advocating for Veteran Programs for 10 years now

A Renewed Vision: Advancing Veteran Empowerment Across Canada

At VeCATS, our unwavering commitment to advocacy has led to meaningful engagement with federal and provincial governments eager to uplift Canadian soldiers, veterans, and their families. Through these efforts, we're not just influencing policy—we’re shaping a future where post-service life is filled with opportunity, dignity, and recognition.

We’ve proudly submitted formal letters to Members of Parliament in support of a tax-free system on approved military installations, reflecting a model long adopted by our allies abroad. This initiative underscores our belief that those who served deserve economic advantages that ease their transition to civilian life.

In addition, VeCATS is developing proposed legislation titled the Canadian Veterans Procurement Act, which mandates that 10% of all procurement contracts issued by Veterans Affairs Canada and the Canadian Armed Forces be awarded to Veteran-Owned Businesses. This would create robust economic inclusion and recognize the entrepreneurial drive within our veteran community.

Our outreach to provincial and municipal leaders also continues to gain traction. We’ve issued support letters advocating for localized programs that:

  • Facilitate veterans’ entry into regional workforces
  • Address skilled labour gaps through tailored educational programs
  • Guarantee veteran access to government procurement contracts
  • Create initiatives supporting holistic transition for soldiers, veterans, and families


 


National Veterans Strategy: Four Key Priorities

VeCATS is driving the development of a National Veterans Strategy focused on four transformative pillars that will serve our community across Canada:


Indigenous Veterans PTSD Wellness Program

A culturally rooted healing initiative that incorporates Indigenous wisdom and trauma recovery methods—supporting both men and women veterans in their mental health journey.


Canadian Military University

A dedicated institution for CAF, RCMP, and DND civilians to gain accredited education, certifications, and skills in areas like technology, management, governance, and entrepreneurship—readying them for a successful career post-service.


National Veterans Housing Initiative

An ambitious plan to build low-income housing on Crown Lands, strategically located near critical amenities—offering dignified retirement options for veterans and their families.


Veterans Entrepreneurship Hub (Vet-Hub)

A national platform to guide veterans through startup development—from launch and mentorship to business growth, succession planning, and successful exits.


Additional Emerging Initiatives

  1. Tax-Free Services Program on military installations to mirror U.S. systems, benefiting CAF and RCMP members
  2. Canadian Veterans Procurement Act to streamline veteran participation in federal contracting with first-right-of-refusal mechanisms
  3. Veterans University for academic and real-world credentialing
  4. Veterans Retirement Community beginning in the Ottawa region, utilizing government land
  5. National Veterans Bank (NVB) offering specialized financial services for CAF, RCMP, and qualifying DND civilians
  6. National Indigenous Veterans Healing Pilot in Newfoundland and Labrador, harnessing land-based therapeutic practices with First Nations partnership



 

 



4 Step Transition

VeCATS provides guidance and assistance in developing a successful transition plan to civilian live after service. 


Our 4 Steps will ensure you understand the elements required and they provide the two main critical elements in securing employment after your service:

          Soft-Skills

          Hard-Skills

          Training

         Job Experience


Program Update Announcement

We are proud to share that the core principles of our “4 Steps” Transition Framework have now been integrated into Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) initiatives.


As a result, VeCATS will be placing enhanced emphasis on supporting Veterans through:

  • Dedicated Veteran Programs tailored to individual needs and aspirations
  • Policy Awareness & Advocacy to keep you informed about evolving legislation impacting your journey
  • Training and Development resources designed to equip you for long-term success in life after service

Our mission remains rooted in empowering Veterans and their Families with the tools, guidance, and opportunities needed for confident, sustainable transitions. We look forward to continuing this journey together.