Veteran-Owned Startup Launches with Support from Brazos Valley SBDC
When Marine veteran Jared Aly decided to turn his passion for craftsmanship into a business, he knew success would require more than technical skills. With a vision to build a veteran-owned company specializing in custom laser engraving and future gunsmithing services, he turned to the Brazos Valley Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for guidance on launching his business the right way.
Working alongside SBDC advisor Shay Iacoponelli, Aly transformed Salt and Steel Arms from an idea into an emerging business. Together, they developed a phased startup strategy, beginning with custom laser engraving, hats, t-shirts, apparel, and embroidery services while preparing for future expansion into regulated gunsmithing services.
The Brazos Valley SBDC provided guidance throughout the startup process, including LLC formation, obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN), identifying veteran business resources, evaluating insurance and banking options, researching licensing and regulatory requirements, and developing a foundation for branding and marketing. As the business progressed, Aly also received referrals to bookkeeping and CPA resources, networking opportunities, and assistance with website planning, social media strategy, and AI-powered marketing tools.
A major milestone came as Salt and Steel Arms prepared to exhibit at the 2026 Brazos Valley Builders Expo. The SBDC helped Aly develop a comprehensive event strategy that included booth design, signage, marketing materials, product displays, pricing, payment processing, lead generation, and post-event follow-up. The preparation positioned the business to make a strong first impression while building relationships with prospective customers.
"Jared has approached every step of launching his business with a willingness to learn and a commitment to doing things the right way," said Iacoponelli. "It's been exciting to watch Salt and Steel Arms grow from an idea into a business with a solid foundation and a clear path for future expansion."
Shay Iacoponelli
Business Advisor, Brazos Valley SBDC
Today, Salt and Steel Arms has moved from startup planning into active business development. Aly has established the business, secured an EIN and domain name, generated initial customer orders, developed marketing materials, and built systems to support future growth. Looking ahead, he plans to expand services to include gunsmithing in late 2026 while continuing to grow his customer base and strengthen the business.
Salt and Steel Arms provides custom laser engraving services for customers throughout the Brazos Valley, including College Station, Bryan, and surrounding communities, with plans to expand into gunsmithing services in the future. To learn more about the business and its services, visit Salt and Steel Arms.
Toni Carter - Communications Director
July 2026
