Robert Sacks Robert Sacks

Empowering Small Businesses and Veteran Entrepreneurs in 2025

As the U.S. economy continues its upward trajectory, bolstered by 256,000 new jobs added in December 2024 and an unemployment rate of 4.1%, 2025 promises to be a transformative year for small businesses and veteran entrepreneurs. With a renewed focus on reducing regulations and promoting small business growth, federal policies align with the mission of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW).

Focused on economic empowerment, domestic manufacturing, and regulatory reform, the Republican agenda aligns seamlessly with the mission of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW). Co-founded by Jeff Shuford and Angel Shuford (Vice President and CFO), NIVW is committed to elevating veteran entrepreneurs as drivers of economic growth, with a spotlight on Black women veteran entrepreneurs leading the charge.

As the U.S. economy continues its upward trajectory, bolstered by 256,000 new jobs added in December 2024 and an unemployment rate of 4.1%, 2025 promises to be a transformative year for small businesses and veteran entrepreneurs. With a renewed focus on reducing regulations and promoting small business growth, federal policies align with the mission of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW).

Led by Angel Shuford, Vice President and CFO, NIVW champions initiatives like FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ to empower veteran entrepreneurs, especially women and minorities, by addressing systemic barriers and creating opportunities for growth.

Key Grants, Loans, and Programs Supporting Entrepreneurs

Government Grants and Assistance

Federal and state governments offer various grants and programs tailored to help small businesses thrive:

  • Grants.gov: The most comprehensive database for federal grants across all sectors.

  • Employee Retention Credit: A refundable tax credit established during the pandemic to support impacted businesses. Learn more on the IRS website.

  • Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR): Provides funding to small businesses engaging in federal research and development. Details here.

  • Small Business Technology Transfer Program (STTR): Supports R&D collaboration between small businesses and research institutions.

  • San Francisco Accessibility Grant: Offers up to $10,000 for small businesses to improve ADA compliance.

Specialized Programs for Women and Minority-Owned Businesses

  • Amber Grant Foundation: Awards $10,000 monthly grants to women entrepreneurs, with additional annual prizes.

  • Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contracting Program: Supports women entrepreneurs in obtaining federal contracts.

  • Black Girl Ventures Pitch Program: Provides funding, coaching, and networking opportunities for Black and Brown entrepreneurs.

Corporate and Nonprofit Initiatives

  • Amazon’s Black Business Accelerator Program: Offers financial support and promotional resources for Black-owned businesses.

  • Hustler’s Microgrant: Awards $1,000 monthly to small businesses across the U.S.

  • GoFundMe Small Business Relief Fund: Matches $500 grants for businesses raising funds through GoFundMe campaigns.

Veteran-Specific Business Resources

Veterans play a vital role in the U.S. economy, contributing over $1.2 trillion annually. Several programs are tailored specifically for veteran entrepreneurs:

  • Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Program: Helps veterans access federal contracting opportunities.

  • Warrior Rising: Provides mentorship, training, and funding for veteran-owned businesses. Learn more at Warrior Rising.

  • Hivers and Strivers Investment Program: Offers $250,000–$1 million in funding for veteran-led startups.

Lessons from Angel Shuford and National Invest In Veterans Week®

Angel Shuford has been at the forefront of empowering female veterans through programs like FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠. Her lessons include:

1. Resilience Builds Strong Foundations

Female veterans are compared to Fe (iron) for their strength and persistence in overcoming challenges.

  • Takeaways: Develop daily habits like goal setting and view obstacles as opportunities for growth.

2. Adaptability Drives Innovation

Adaptability, symbolized by Pb (lead), allows entrepreneurs to pivot and lead effectively in changing markets.

  • Takeaways: Stay informed on trends and maintain flexibility in strategies.

3. Mentorship Fuels Growth

Mentorship connects entrepreneurs with industry leaders, offering guidance and opportunities for collaboration.

  • Takeaways: Seek mentors aligned with your goals and leverage their insights for growth.

Additional Resources for Entrepreneurs

Explore these resources to enhance your entrepreneurial journey:

Looking Ahead

As Angel Shuford states:
"Investing in veteran entrepreneurs, especially women, strengthens communities and drives innovation. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient economy."

To learn more about programs and funding opportunities, visit National Invest In Veterans Week.

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