National Invest In Veterans Week®: Honoring Service, Empowering Entrepreneurship, and Building a Stronger Economy
March 1st through March 7th marks National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), a powerful movement dedicated to celebrating the contributions of veteran-owned businesses, amplifying their voices, and fostering economic opportunities for veterans nationwide. This annual event is a clarion call for legislators, community leaders, corporations, and citizens to recognize the vital role veterans play in the economic and social fabric of America.
Veterans have served this country with honor and dedication. As they transition from military life, many become entrepreneurs, creating businesses that employ fellow veterans, support their communities, and drive innovation. NIVW is the ultimate platform to ensure their efforts are celebrated, supported, and sustained.
Why National Invest In Veterans Week® Matters
Veterans are twice as likely to start businesses as non-veterans, bringing with them unparalleled skills in leadership, discipline, and decision-making. These qualities, honed in the military, form the backbone of successful ventures. However, veteran entrepreneurs face unique challenges, including limited access to resources, funding, and networking opportunities. National Invest In Veterans Week® addresses these barriers while celebrating veteran-owned businesses' vital contributions.
The Numbers Speak Volumes
Veteran-owned businesses generate over $1.2 trillion annually and employ millions across the U.S.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are over 2.5 million veteran-owned businesses, with the potential for even more growth through targeted support.
This week is not just about recognition—it's about action. Legislators and leaders must seize this opportunity to empower veteran entrepreneurs and ensure they have the tools they need to thrive.
Proclamations That Honor Veterans Locally and Nationally
Douglas County, Oregon: A Model for Community Recognition
In 2021, Douglas County, Oregon, Commissioners Tim Freeman, Chris Boice, and Tom Kress issued a proclamation during their weekly business meeting to honor National Invest In Veterans Week®. This act of recognition highlighted the county’s commitment to its veterans and set an example for communities nationwide.
The proclamation celebrated:
17 veteran-owned businesses and 5 Douglas County citizens for their outstanding service and contributions.
Three categories of honorees:
Veterans Who Invest in Veterans: Individuals who mentor and uplift other veterans.
Businesses That Hire Veterans: Employers who prioritize veteran hires, ensuring meaningful employment for transitioning service members.
Veteran-Owned Businesses: Entrepreneurs who create jobs and drive local economic growth.
Notable Honorees
Veterans Who Invest in Veterans:
Jim Little, Chief Warrant Officer, U.S. Navy, Retired.
Mary Newman-Keyes, Douglas County Veterans Service Officer.
Mel Cheney, U.S. Army Veteran, recognized for his work at the Community Cancer Center.
Businesses That Hire Veterans:
Andy Owens, CEO of A&M Transport, and Joe Moody, U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and Safety Director.
Steve and Kelly Burton, Owners of Roseburg Grocery Outlet.
Toby Luther, CEO of Lone Rock Timber and Abby’s Pizza, alongside veteran employees Chris Allmendinger and Allen Seamans.
Veteran-Owned Businesses:
Rusty and Elena Lininger, U.S. Army Veterans, owners of Source One Serenity.
Josh Murphy and Chris Lamont, U.S. Marine Corps Veterans, founders of Umpqua Survival, Invictus Technical Solutions, and Triptych Construction.
Sam Gross, U.S. Army Veteran, owner of Logger’s Pizza.
Douglas County’s proclamation set a precedent for how local governments can honor and invest in their veterans.
Dynamic Events That Inspire and Empower
National Invest In Veterans Week® is built on a foundation of impactful events that bring together veterans, businesses, and communities. These past events are tailored to meet the diverse needs of veterans, from transitioning service members to established entrepreneurs.
Workshops, Panels, and Networking Opportunities
Tampa’s Action Zone Events
March 1st: Million Cups Presentations at the Entrepreneur Collaborative Center, featuring two veteran-owned businesses.
Details here.March 3rd: Suicide Prevention Resources Panel, with speakers Tony Williams and Dr. Carlos Garcia, addressing mental health challenges faced by veterans.
More details.March 6th: Military Spouse Networking, providing vital connections for military families transitioning to civilian life.
Defense Week: A Premier National Event
Defense Week aimed to collaborate with NIVW to launch a hybrid conference featuring renowned speakers, workshops, and panels.
Notable Sessions Include:
"How I Made My First Million in Government Contracting" with Jayton Harps and Francis Rowe.
Cybersecurity Workshops led by Len Noe, Technical Evangelist at CyberArk, offering veterans pathways into high-demand fields.
Keynotes by Elite Leaders:
Chef Geoff Cole, CEO of Admirals Experience, inspiring veterans to pursue culinary entrepreneurship.
Jenn Donahue, President of JL Donahue Engineering, empowering women veterans to overcome imposter syndrome.
Valerie Ellis, CEO of Luminary Global, sharing strategies for business growth.
Explore the past planned full Defense Week schedule here.
Prestigious Speakers and Industry Leaders
National Invest In Veterans Week® attracts a lineup of influential speakers who share their expertise and inspire action:
Elizabeth Cotton, Executive Director of Black Tech Link, championing diversity and inclusion in technology.
Chef Geoff Cole, a trailblazing veteran-entrepreneur in the hospitality industry.
Jenn Donahue, a leader in engineering and an advocate for veteran empowerment.
Jayton Harps, CEO of Zero to Necessary LLC, simplifying cybersecurity certifications for veterans.
Francis Rowe, founder of Rowe Solutions, helping veterans secure government contracts.
These leaders exemplify the success and resilience of veterans transitioning to civilian careers and entrepreneurship.
The Economic Power of Veteran-Owned Businesses
Why Invest in Veterans?
Veteran-owned businesses are not just enterprises—they are engines of economic growth, community development, and innovation.
Job Creation: Veteran-owned businesses are a major source of employment for fellow veterans, reducing unemployment rates in the veteran community.
Community Impact: These businesses often prioritize giving back, supporting local charities, and mentoring other veterans.
Economic Growth: With higher customer satisfaction rates and innovative approaches, veteran-owned businesses contribute significantly to the national GDP.
Call to Action for Legislators and Leaders
As National Invest In Veterans Week® continues to grow, it serves as a rallying cry for policymakers, organizations, and individuals to take tangible steps in supporting veteran entrepreneurs. Here’s how legislators can make an impact:
Expand Federal Programs: Increase funding for programs like the HUBZone and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business certifications.
Streamline Contracting Processes: Simplify access to government contracts for veteran-owned businesses.
Provide Tax Incentives: Offer tax breaks to businesses that hire veterans or are veteran-owned.
Promote Awareness: Encourage local governments to issue proclamations recognizing veteran contributions.
Looking Ahead: A Legacy of Empowerment
National Invest In Veterans Week® is more than a celebration—it is a movement to create a legacy of empowerment for those who have served this nation. With each passing year, the week grows in scope, impact, and importance, ensuring that veterans receive the recognition, resources, and respect they deserve.
Join the Movement:
Together, we can honor the service of our veterans and invest in their future as entrepreneurs, leaders, and innovators.