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7-Eleven Giving Veterans Unique Opportunity With "Operation Take Command" Contest

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Many have dreamed of owning their own business, but don't know where to start, or don't have the cash to open a franchise.

Now, a convenience store wants to make it easier to veterans to make that happen.

The convenience store giant 7-Eleven is calling all vets to join their ranks through what they call "Operation Take Command."

"They will receive a franchise fee waiver valued up to $190,000 which they could use to franchise any store in the continental U.S.," says Michelle Keister, of 7-Eleven.

The national contest is open to any U.S. military veteran who's been honorably discharged, is 21 or older and has good credit with a minimum of three years leadership experience.

"We'll provide training. We will lead them through the business practices," says Keister. "They will have a dedicated consultant who will visit them weekly to help them grow their business and help them be successful."

More than 1,200 have already applied. Ten finalists will be chosen in March.

Michelle Keister visits Pittsburgh Today Live:

"We'll ask them to create a Facebook video that we will put up for the public to view and then everyone can vote," Keister says. "From that we will pick three finalists in April that will then meet with our President and CEO Joe DiPinto who will then pick the winner."

Then, it's up to the winner to decide where he or she wants to run their business.

For more information on Operation Take Command, visit: http://www.veteransfranchisegiveaway.com/

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