Little Caesars has announced a new veterans program, which provides franchise business opportunities to qualified, honorably discharged veterans transitioning to civilian life or seeking a career change.

“Our founder Michael Ilitch, a former Marine himself, strongly believes in giving back and helping others. He also believes that it’s important for Little Caesars to thank the men and women who have served in the armed forces, and that veterans should have the chance to return home with business opportunities, or transition to a new career,” said David Scrivano, president of Little Caesar Enterprises, Inc.

Benefits of the programs include a $5,000 reduction in franchise fee for the first store, favorable financing benefits, and a $5,000 credit on the initial equipment order. Service-disabled veterans are eligible for enhanced benefits: waiver of the franchise fee for the first store, additional financing options and benefits, a $10,000 credit on the initial equipment order, and grand opening support from “leading national companies.”

All told, the benefit for service-disabled veterans is approximately $68,000.

Points of contact for the program are The Center for Veterans Enterprise, part of the Department of Veterans Affairs; Marine For Life, an organization that helps marines and sailors transition to civilian life; and the International Franchise Association, through its VetFran program.

Applications will be received through December 31, 2008.