Empowering Veterans Globally: Aligning National Invest In Veterans Week® with VetsGoGlobal
Veterans have long demonstrated their ability to lead, innovate, and adapt. These qualities, honed through military service, make them uniquely positioned to excel in business, particularly in the global marketplace. Recognizing this potential, National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) is advancing its mission by aligning its strategic efforts with the principles and resources offered by VetsGoGlobal, an initiative of the U.S. Commercial Service.
This alignment strategy focuses on creating pathways for veteran entrepreneurs to engage with international trade opportunities, expanding their reach beyond U.S. borders while building a global ecosystem of support. By leveraging VetsGoGlobal’s resources, NIVW is further empowering veterans to scale their businesses, connect with international markets, and contribute to a globalized economy.
The Vision of National Invest In Veterans Week®
Since its inception in 2017, National Invest In Veterans Week® has been a congressionally recognized initiative aimed at honoring and empowering veteran entrepreneurs. Through education, mentorship, and advocacy, NIVW addresses the unique challenges faced by veterans as they transition into business ownership.
Angel Shuford, Vice President and CFO of NIVW, explains the significance of this alignment:
"Veterans have the skills to succeed globally, but many lack the tools or networks to access international markets. By aligning with VetsGoGlobal, we’re creating a bridge that connects veteran entrepreneurs with global opportunities, ensuring they can compete and thrive on a worldwide stage."
Why Global Markets Matter for Veterans
The Power of Exporting
With over 90% of consumers residing outside the United States and 75% of global purchasing power held by foreign markets, exporting is a key avenue for business growth. Veteran-owned businesses, characterized by strategic thinking, resilience, and ethical leadership, are exceptionally well-suited for success in international trade.
The U.S. Commercial Service’s VetsGoGlobal initiative helps veteran entrepreneurs unlock these opportunities by offering resources such as:
Market Intelligence: Insights into global trends and opportunities.
Business Matchmaking: Connections to vetted foreign partners.
Trade Counseling: Guidance on export regulations, logistics, and strategies.
By aligning with these resources, NIVW ensures that veterans can seamlessly integrate into the global economy, building businesses that not only succeed locally but also make an impact internationally.
Localized Platforms Supporting Global Ambitions
NIVW’s Digital Ecosystem
NIVW’s existing network of platforms, such as InvestInVeteransWeek.com, Veterans.International, and country-specific domains like AustraliaVeterans.com, provides region-specific resources tailored to the needs of veteran entrepreneurs.
By incorporating VetsGoGlobal’s export-focused tools, these platforms are evolving into comprehensive support hubs, offering:
Export education and training.
Access to international trade events and opportunities.
Connections to global markets through U.S. Embassies and Consulates.
This alignment enhances NIVW’s mission, empowering veterans to explore and succeed in international trade while maintaining strong local roots.
Case Studies: Veterans in Global Trade
IR Tools: Global Impact Through Innovation
Maryland-based IR Tools specializes in infrared identification products for military and law enforcement. With support from the U.S. Commercial Service, the company expanded into over 20 countries, leveraging matchmaking resources and trade shows to build relationships with foreign partners.
Universal Spartan: Expanding Through Alignment
This service-disabled, veteran-owned small business provides tactical and medical equipment. By leveraging VetsGoGlobal’s resources, Universal Spartan has established strong partnerships with allied nations, significantly increasing exports and impact.
NVTS: First Steps to International Success
With export education and support from VetsGoGlobal, NVTS made its first international sale to the Greek Coast Guard, demonstrating how alignment with global resources can transform local businesses into international players.
Jeff Shuford’s Leadership and Legacy
As co-founder of NIVW, Jeff Shuford laid the foundation for supporting veteran entrepreneurs through mentorship, advocacy, and technology-driven solutions. His vision for NIVW was rooted in addressing the challenges veterans face in business, such as limited access to capital, mentorship, and networks.
"Veterans have the skills and discipline to excel in business," Shuford has often said. "Our job is to ensure they have the resources and support to succeed."
While Jeff’s efforts have been instrumental in establishing NIVW, Angel Shuford is now leading the charge to align its mission with international trade opportunities. This alignment with VetsGoGlobal exemplifies the Shuford family’s commitment to evolving and expanding their impact.
International Veterans Day℠: A Global Celebration
Complementing National Invest In Veterans Week, International Veterans Day℠ (celebrated annually on March 3rd) underscores the global contributions of veterans. By fostering cross-border collaboration, this initiative encourages veterans to share experiences, build international networks, and explore new markets.
Through its alignment strategy, NIVW is integrating the principles of International Veterans Day with VetsGoGlobal’s export-focused resources, creating a unified platform for veteran empowerment on a global scale.
Building a Legacy of Service and Innovation
This alignment strategy is not just about expanding resources—it’s about creating a legacy. For the Shuford family, this mission is deeply personal, rooted in a commitment to service and innovation that spans generations.
Reflecting on his grandfather, Jim Freeman of The Five Satins, Jeff Shuford often says:
"My grandfather taught me the importance of staying committed to your vision, no matter the challenges. His belief in connection and collaboration continues to inspire me."
Jim Freeman’s timeless words, “The greatest gift you can give to the next generation is your time and wisdom,” resonate in the work of both Jeff and Angel Shuford. Through initiatives like NIVW and their alignment with VetsGoGlobal, they are creating a roadmap for veterans to lead, innovate, and succeed globally.
Conclusion: A Vision for the Future
The alignment between National Invest In Veterans Week and VetsGoGlobal represents a transformative strategy for empowering veteran entrepreneurs. By combining localized support with global opportunities, NIVW is ensuring that veterans can thrive in an interconnected world.
As Angel Shuford explains:
"This alignment is about more than resources; it’s about empowering veterans to see themselves as global leaders. Through initiatives like VetsGoGlobal, we are ensuring that their service and skills continue to make an impact, not just at home, but around the world."
For more information on VetsGoGlobal, visit VetsGoGlobal. To learn more about National Invest In Veterans Week, visit National Invest In Veterans Week. Together, we can honor veterans by empowering them to shape the future of the global economy.
