Data-Driven Insights on Veteran Economics
Use our suite of dashboards to analyze public records and illustrative economic models. We provide the contextual data you need to understand veteran economic participation at a deeper level. Non-advisory: No financial, legal, or investment advice provided.
Just For You
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Written By Chynelle Washington
Humans at the Helm: How AI Is Being Used to Find America’s Next Veterans
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Long-time Public Address (PA) Announcer for the Anaheim Ducks NHL Team
“In the arena, we cheer for heroes.
In the economy, we invest in them.”
— Phil Hulett -
Phil Hulett Elevates National Invest In Veterans Week®
“Don’t Just Cheer for Veterans—Invest in Them”: Phil Hulett Elevates National Invest In Veterans Week®
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Military Made
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Military Made, founded by veterans, showcases a unique selection of handcrafted products created by military members and their families. Each item reflects the dedication, skill, and resilience of those who have served. From durable gear to artisan-made goods, Military Made connects consumers with products that support military communities and honor service through craftsmanship.
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Born Primitive
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Born Primitive, created by a veteran to offer high-performance athletic gear, embodies a spirit of resilience and patriotism. Known for their durable, American-made workout apparel, Born Primitive has become a favorite among athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Designed for toughness and versatility, each piece reflects the brand’s commitment to empowering wearers with gear that honors those who serve. Born Primitive combines quality, comfort, and a proud connection to its military roots.
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Christian Brothers Automotive
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Owned by veteran Joshua Standridge, Christian Brothers Automotive in Lexington provides a full range of automotive services, from oil changes to engine replacements, with a commitment to quality and community. Standridge, a graduate of The Citadel and active member of the South Carolina Army National Guard, brings his dedication to service into his business.
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Combat Flip Flops
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Inspired by their experiences in Afghanistan, Army Rangers Matthew Griffin and Donald Lee saw how economic hardship and conflict reinforced each other, fueling cycles of violence. Determined to make a difference, they founded Combat Flip Flops in 2012 to bring economic empowerment to conflict-affected areas. The company gained national attention on Shark Tank, where Griffin and Lee’s mission of "business over bullets" resonated with investors.
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![Veteran Business Owner Supporting NIVW]()
Capitol Tours
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Capitol Tours, founded by South Carolina Air National Guard veteran Buddy Young, has proudly served the community for nearly 40 years, providing reliable charter bus services for schools, businesses, and local groups. Young, who flew F-16s and served in Operation Desert Storm, transitioned his dedication to service into a family-run business that prioritizes quality and community impact.
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1889 Coffee House
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Founded by veteran Brett Wiensch, 1889 Coffee House in Helena is more than just a coffee shop—it's a community hub with a mission. Inspired to create a gathering place after his military service, Wiensch established 1889 Coffee House to serve quality coffee and real food with a Montana spirit. Opened on Veterans Day, this veteran-owned business honors servicemembers through discounts and free coffee, while providing a welcoming space where local residents can connect, conduct business, and support a family-run operation built on resilience and pride.
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True Made Foods
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Founded by Navy veteran and father of four Abe Kamarck, True Made Foods creates condiments without added sugar or artificial sweeteners. Shocked to find that ketchup has more sugar than ice cream, Kamarck set out to make healthier, flavor-packed alternatives by using real fruits and vegetables for sweetness. Partnering with legendary pitmaster Ed Mitchell, the True Made Foods team includes friends and family who are dedicated to delivering great taste—they even test products with kids for approval.
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![Veteran Business Owner Supporting NIVW]()
Todd Realty Partners
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Founded by Army National Guard helicopter pilot Todd Lyle, Todd Realty Partners exemplifies the spirit of National Invest In Veterans Week. Lyle, a Lexington native, combines his military discipline, engineering expertise, and law background to offer top-tier real estate services in the Midlands.
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JDog Brands
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JDog Brands, led by veterans, provides eco-friendly junk removal and carpet cleaning services with a commitment to military values. Founded by veterans and military families, JDog stands out for its focus on respect, integrity, and trust. With each service, JDog brings meticulous attention to detail, ensuring a green approach by recycling or donating unwanted items whenever possible. This veteran-owned brand is dedicated to serving both communities and the environment with honor.
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![Veteran Business Owner Supporting NIVW]()
Budget Blinds
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National Invest In Veterans Week, established in 2019, honors veteran business owners like Chris Petty of Budget Blinds and Chapin Petty. A former Army artillery officer, he brings his military dedication to running the largest independent custom window retailer in North America.
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Irmo Lock Company
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Founded over 30 years ago by Skey Caskey, Irmo Lock Company is now co-owned by Navy veteran Guy Caskey, who proudly returned to the family business after serving 10 years. With a foundation of community support, the company provides a range of security solutions, from access control to security cameras, evolving with technology to meet modern needs.
Small business firms owned by veterans employed 5.03 million people and had an annual payroll of $195 billion.
Veteran Business Empowerment Proposals
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Purpose: Translate military skills into recognized civilian certifications, supporting career growth or entrepreneurial ventures in technical fields.
Benefits: Enhances veterans’ qualifications for competitive industries, creating new career pathways and opportunities for veteran-owned businesses.
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Purpose: Offer tax incentives to veteran-owned businesses to encourage entrepreneurship, ease financial burdens, and stimulate growth in veteran-led enterprises.
Benefits: Reduces startup costs, enhances profitability, and enables veteran-owned businesses to reinvest in expansion and job creation, boosting local economies and supporting veterans in building lasting businesses.
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Purpose: Provide fast-track training for veterans to transition into high-demand careers, with immediate placement in essential industries.
Benefits: Supports veterans in building stable, fulfilling careers, and strengthens the workforce with dedicated, skilled professionals.
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Purpose: Fund veteran-owned green businesses focused on environmental sustainability and innovative, eco-friendly solutions.
Benefits: Positions veterans as leaders in the green economy, contributing to sustainable growth and fostering economic self-reliance through entrepreneurship.
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Purpose: Support veterans in launching businesses that address community needs, from affordable housing to health and education services.
Benefits: Empowers veterans to lead meaningful social enterprises, bringing positive change to their communities while building sustainable businesses.
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Purpose: Connect veterans to flexible gig jobs suited to their skills, offering pathways to entrepreneurship and self-employment.
Benefits: Empowers veterans to choose work that fits their lifestyle and career goals, encouraging financial independence and adaptability in today’s economy.
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Purpose: Place veteran entrepreneurs within corporate incubators to access mentorship, networks, and essential business resources.
Benefits: Provides veteran business owners with the guidance and connections to grow successful enterprises, while enriching the business landscape with diverse, skilled leadership.