Ki Ho Kang, a retired Air Force Veteran, built his career on solving the Air Force’s most complex engineering acquisition and validation problems for aircraft systems. He carried that experience with him to the Small Business Administration and used it as he transitioned into business.
Start with work
Kang’s 11-year career and 10 years of Air Force reserve duty, including earning his master’s degree, laid the foundation for the skills he would need in his future business career. His career included roles as an A-10 avionics systems engineer and flight test director, advanced studies in electrical engineering, and leadership positions in acquisition and technology development, ultimately serving at the Pentagon as director of acquisition policies for combat, bomb and weapons systems. These experiences gave him deep skills in engineering and taking defenses—skills he would carry into building a small business.
When he returned from activation during Operation Iraqi Freedom, Kang decided to leave his first job at the research center and started “KIHOMAC” to provide flexibility to fulfill his Air Force Reserve obligations. He started the company as a first-person, focused on developing engineering and advanced design solutions, gradually taking on more complex projects and increasing capacity year by year. Kang’s career has applied this technical depth to real-world aerospace problems. KIHOMAC provides engineering, support (long-term system support), prototyping and manufacturing solutions that keep defense platforms ready.
Increase operations and access financing through the SBA
Like many new entrepreneurs, Kang initially faced the challenge of understanding how to operate and scale the business. “When we started 22 years ago, we had to know everything.” “SBA has always been ‘in our corner’ in supporting us in the various stages of our growth,” said Kang.
Things began to change when KIHOMAC received SBA guidance on facilitating federal procurement. At the time, the company only had $140,000 in cash. With support from experienced SBA business professionals, Kang learned how the government procurement process works. The inspiration gave him the insight he needed to go to the corporate world and build the ability to find great opportunities.
“A lot of our early growth was due to the SBA,” he said. “Our continued growth after 2014 is also based on the foundation built under the SBA program.”
Advice: Whether you’re just exploring an idea or expanding an established business, connecting with experienced mentors and structured programs can accelerate your success and help you avoid common pitfalls. Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOC) provide advice and educational resources to Veteran and military male businesses. Learn and join your local VBOC.
Loans to help with business expansion
To keep expanding, Kang used the SBA 504 loan program to finance the construction of a large manufacturing facility in Georgia. This long-term, fixed investment has enabled KIHOMAC to acquire the space, equipment and facilities needed to support advanced aerospace work.
“The SBA makes it possible to get money that would be very difficult to get in other ways. The 504 loan allows banks to lend to a larger program since they can rely on the SBA loan,” Kang shared.
After securing the funding, Kang opened a 130,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Warner Robins, Ga., near Robins Air Force Base.
With this increased capacity, KIHOMAC has strengthened its manufacturing capabilities, improved operations and positioned itself to deliver larger and more complex projects to its defense customers. Access to affordable financing has played an important role in helping the company scale at the right time and remain competitive in a demanding industry.
Tip: Explore SBA-guaranteed loan programs—from 7(a) to 504 and microloans—to find flexible financing that supports business growth and expansion. Use Lender Match to connect with potential lenders with competitive rates and fees.
Use Entrepreneur Support Networks to sharpen business skills
Kang also sought out Veteran programs to sharpen his business skills. He completed the Veterans Institute for Procurement (VIP) GROW training, which he credits with providing “the practical knowledge needed to work in military procurement programs. SBA programs can help veteran businesses build a strong foundation for long-term, sustainable growth.”
Through these sponsorship opportunities, Kang deepened his understanding of the corporate market and strengthened his ability to compete for advanced engineering and manufacturing contracts. Over time, KIHOMAC expanded. Its main office is in Virginia with other locations in Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Oklahoma, Texas and Utah.
Tip: Continuing education through Veteran-focused training programs helps businesses compete confidently in professional or corporate sectors. Find out more about VIP training.
Results and Future Growth
Today, KIHOMAC employs approximately 350 people and generates approximately $70 million in annual revenue, with new contract awards that will position the company for 20% growth in 2026. Looking ahead, Kang expects to reach $200 million in revenue within the next five to ten years as the company continues to move forward in aerospace system design, manufacturing and advanced engineering, continuing the on-engineering continuum. ago.
KIHOMAC’s approach shows what is possible when military expertise meets business vision and how commitment to efficiency, innovation and strategic execution can make a business world-renowned.
For Veterans, transitioning service members or spouses who are preparing to start or scale a business, SBA resources and Veteran-focused programs provide the support needed to take the next step in business success. Connect with your SBA Regional Office or SCORE advisor to get answers to your questions.
Are you ready to take the next step? Visit sba.gov/veterans and follow the SBA Office of Veterans Business Development on LinkedIn, X, and Facebook.
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