FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): Veterans looking to become business owners now have a new opportunity through a partnership between the Department of Veterans Affairs and Steak ‘n Shake.

The fast-food chain announced it will waive franchise fees for veterans interested in opening a location.

The announcement was made Wednesday at the Steak ‘n Shake on Coldwater Road in Fort Wayne, where local leaders and franchise owners gathered to highlight the program.

U.S. Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.), who is also a veteran, said the program gives veterans a chance to transition into entrepreneurship and build something of their own.

“Steak and Shake is waiving its franchise fee for veterans who want to get into the business,” Banks said. “Giving veterans an opportunity to own these stores and operate their own business — it’s a great American story.”

The Senator said he hopes the initiative encourages other companies, especially franchise businesses, to create similar opportunities for veterans.

“I hope other large businesses, especially franchise businesses, restaurants like this, catch on and see what Steak ‘n Shake is doing and say they want to replicate that too,” Banks said.

Steak ‘n Shake franchisee David Weill, a former Army Surgical Hospital service member, said becoming a restaurant owner was not something he originally planned, but encouraged other veterans to explore the opportunity.

The program aims to make franchise ownership more accessible for veterans interested in entering the restaurant industry.