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At CASY & MSCCN, we’re always on the lookout for Veteran and military spouse business owners. We’re interested in their stories—where they came from, how they developed their business, and where they’re looking to grow in the future. These stories inspire and motivate us to get out there and pursue our dreams.
Naseem Matteson, owner and founder of Small Business ABCs, has us feeling doubly motivated. She’s a U.S. Navy Veteran, the spouse of an active duty Sailor, and was recently named Treasurer of the Women in Defense Greater Hampton Roads (WIDGHR). We spoke to her this month to ask what it’s like to start a business, and how to keep your motivation when times get tough.
Q: How did you make the decision to go into business for yourself? What motivated you, and how did you know you could make it work?
A: Before I made the decision to start Small Business ABCs, I already had a strong background in finance, accounting, bookkeeping, and financial management—as well as a love of numbers. I also had an Associate of
Science in Accounting and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. My education gave me a strong base to work from, as did my experiences as the Director of Finance for a small, local company in Virginia Beach. While I was there, I gained valuable experience revamping their accounting quality system to prepare for audits,
creating analysis reports to highlight risks and profit opportunities, and managing full cycle payroll.
The decision to become an entrepreneur came with my two children. I wanted to be able to maintain family stability, which is always in flux due to my husband’s work demands, while also contributing financially and personally to our family’s welfare.
Find Your Plan ABC
a Conversation with Naseem Matteson
Naseem Matteson, owner and founder of Small Business ABCs.