About Drayton Florence
(Retired) Co-Founder, National Invest In Veterans Week® & Tech From Vets
A Legacy of Leadership and Advocacy
Drayton Florence, a trailblazer in veteran entrepreneurship and advocacy, has announced his retirement from National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) and Tech From Vets due to unforeseen medical circumstances. As a co-founder of NIVW and a champion for veteran-owned businesses, Florence’s impact on the veteran entrepreneurial landscape has been profound.
From the NFL gridiron to the business world, Florence has dedicated himself to empowering veterans through technology, advocacy, and entrepreneurship. His retirement marks the conclusion of a distinguished chapter, but his legacy will continue to guide and inspire NIVW and Tech From Vets for years to come.
A Remarkable Career: From NFL to Veteran Entrepreneurship
Drayton Florence's journey began at Tuskegee University, where he made history as the highest-drafted player from the school to enter the National Football League (NFL). Across 11 seasons, Florence played for the Jacksonville Jaguars, Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, Denver Broncos, and Detroit Lions, leaving a lasting mark on the league.
After retiring from the NFL, Florence earned both a Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Sport Management from the University of North Florida, further solidifying his commitment to leadership and business development.
Recognizing the need for veteran-focused business solutions, Florence co-founded Tech From Vets in 2017, a veteran-owned technology development company that went on to win the prestigious 2017 BizTech Award presented by Comcast Business and the Jacksonville Business Journal.
Building on this success, he co-founded National Invest In Veterans Week®, a congressionally recognized observance (March 1st – 7th) dedicated to championing veteran entrepreneurs. Under his leadership, NIVW expanded into a globally recognized initiative, amplifying the voices of veteran business owners worldwide.
A Lasting Impact on Veteran Advocacy
Throughout his tenure, Florence has been a vocal advocate for veteran business development, appearing on platforms such as the NFL Network, Forbes Sports Money, and Sports Illustrated to spotlight the importance of veteran entrepreneurship. His tireless efforts have been instrumental in securing national recognition for veteran business initiatives.
Reflecting on his departure, Angel Shuford, Vice President and CFO of National Invest In Veterans Week®, expressed deep gratitude for Florence’s leadership:
“Drayton has been an extraordinary leader, mentor, and advocate for veteran entrepreneurship. His vision has laid the foundation for countless veteran-owned businesses to thrive. Though we will miss his leadership, his legacy will continue to inspire everything we do moving forward.”
Transition of Leadership: Strengthening the Future
With Florence’s retirement, Sherman Williams has been appointed as the new Director of Partnerships for NIVW. Williams, a retired U.S. Army Captain and CEO of Body Aqua, brings a wealth of business expertise and military leadership to the role.
Additionally, Jim Freeman, Grammy Hall of Fame inductee and founding member of The Five Satins, will serve as Advisor for Cultural Partnerships, helping NIVW expand its reach through music, media, and corporate collaborations.
A Grateful Farewell
Though stepping away from his active role, Florence’s indelible impact on veteran business advocacy will endure. His contributions to veteran entrepreneurship, technology, and policy development will continue to shape the next generation of veteran business leaders.
Drayton Florence’s career embodies the essence of leadership, service, and perseverance. While his retirement marks the end of an era, his influence will remain an integral part of National Invest In Veterans Week® and Tech From Vets for years to come.
For more information about National Invest In Veterans Week®, visit InvestInVeteransWeek.com.