Some local veterans had a chance to connect with small business owners at a job fair in Rochester Saturday morning.

Congresswoman Louise Slaughter hosted the event held at Nazareth College. The information session aimed to give veterans the knowledge and resources to start their own businesses.

Event organizers say the federal government offers grants and low interest loans to help veterans start businesses. Congresswoman Slaughter says it's important to help the soldiers in a struggling economy.

"I think this event is so important," said Slaughter. "We know the unemployment rate is high all over. People without work across America, and the hardest for many of us are the soldiers coming back who are fighting for us, for for our country."

Organizers say this business training is critical in helping veterans and their families transition back into the community.