You’ve done your research. You’ve calculated the potential. But something still holds you back from launching your own business—perhaps it’s the security of your current job, doubts about success, or wondering if you have the right experience.

Steven Mitts understands these concerns firsthand. As a U.S. Army Logistics Officer managing operations for thousands of troops, he developed strong leadership abilities and problem-solving skills. His military service, which earned him a Bronze Star Medal, built the foundation for his next mission: creating successful businesses. After leaving the Army, he earned his MBA from Georgetown University before entering the startup and technology sectors.

Today, Mitts has raised $80 million in funding, holds over 20 patents and publications combined, and operates multiple thriving businesses. His path from military officer to business owner required more than determination—it demanded strategic thinking, methodical preparation, and starting with small steps.

From Military to Entrepreneurship

While working with defense and security technologies, Mitts noticed other entrepreneurs facing challenges he could solve. “I kept meeting founders who needed help solving big problems,” he says. “Through years of trial and error, I had built the expertise to solve those problems, and I wanted to share that knowledge.”

The shift from stable employment to entrepreneurship tested his resolve. “Walking away from a high-paying, stable job with benefits and a clear path forward to take a leap into the unknown—there’s always that voice in the back of your mind wondering, ‘What if this doesn’t work?'”

Mitts funded his business through multiple sources: angel investors, business incubator support, friends and family funding, and personal savings. His initial estimate of needing 6 to 12 months of financial runway proved insufficient. “If I could do it over, I’d make sure I had a financial plan for at least two years, and I’d assume that things would take three times longer than I thought to get off the ground.”

Building the Business

This lesson shaped his approach to launching IV20 Spirits, where he spent four years conducting research and development while gathering customer feedback. Each version of the formula and product went through testing to validate market demand. The effort paid off—IV20 has won numerous awards and is now expanding into Tennessee. The brand has established a presence in over 100 retail locations, with direct-to-consumer sales representing 30% of the business. To fuel further growth, IV20 has opened a $1.25 million seed round for expansion and product development.

“Most days, it’s a grind,” Mitts says. “You’re juggling multiple roles, from strategic CEO-level decisions to fixing operational details. If you can’t make payroll, it’s not just your life impacted—it’s your entire team’s.”

His first $1,000 came through personal connections rather than marketing campaigns. While he initially believed email outreach would drive growth, he discovered that relationship-building proved more valuable. “I started posting insights and tips that were genuinely helpful, and it quickly led to people reaching out for advice or services.”

Expanding the Vision

Mitts now supports entrepreneurs with product development and fundraising expertise through his website at stevenmitts.com. He’s launching new coaching programs specifically designed for founders working on disruptive ideas, offering hands-on support for brand development, website optimization, and social media strategy.

His portfolio includes Full Spectrum Imaging, which develops security solutions licensed by the Department of Homeland Security and is currently competing for government grants. He also invests in real estate, creating additional revenue while teaching others to do the same.

“Having people who’ve been through it before to give you advice—or even just to call your baby ugly when necessary—can save you from a lot of missteps,” Mitts says, highlighting the importance of honest mentorship.

Mitts’ experience offers valuable insights for turning business ideas into reality: test your concepts with your existing network, build genuine relationships instead of focusing solely on sales, plan for twice the time and three times the money you expect to need, start with your current expertise and skills, and take small, calculated steps forward.

Success isn’t about perfection—it’s about starting small, adapting as you learn, and building something meaningful one decision at a time. For Mitts, this meant waiting to leave his job until he had stable systems in place, diversifying revenue streams through real estate and consulting, and carefully timing the launch of each new business initiative.