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:

  1. Veterans Who Invest in Veterans: Individuals who mentor and uplift other veterans.

  2. Businesses That Hire Veterans: Employers who prioritize veteran hires, ensuring meaningful employment for transitioning service members.

  3. 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.

Read more here.

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.

Discover more speakers here.

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.

1. Job Creation: Veteran-owned businesses are a major source of employment for fellow veterans, reducing unemployment rates in the veteran community.

2. Community Impact: These businesses often prioritize giving back, supporting local charities, and mentoring other veterans.

3. 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:

• Explore Events

• Support Veteran-Owned Businesses

• Learn About Action Zone Programs

Together, we can honor the service of our veterans and invest in their future as entrepreneurs, leaders, and innovators.

Official Report: National Invest in Veterans Week® Domains and Strategic Initiatives for Veteran Empowerment

Introduction

National Invest in Veterans Week® (NIVW) is an innovative national initiative focused on advancing veteran entrepreneurship. NIVW achieves this by creating state-specific domains aligned with the unique economic and social characteristics of various regions in the U.S. These 14 domains provide veterans with tailored resources, business mentorship, funding opportunities, and pathways to industry networks. This report deep-dives into the alignment, opportunities, and challenges faced by these domains while leveraging the 2024 PenFed Top Cities for Veteran Entrepreneurs Report as a key reference.

I. Overview of National Invest in Veterans Week Domains

The 14 domains reflect a highly localized approach to fostering veteran entrepreneurship, addressing regional economic strengths, and creating opportunities. By bridging the gap between veterans and essential resources, the domains empower veteran-owned businesses to flourish in diverse ecosystems. The domains not only enhance individual success but also stimulate broader regional economic development.

II. The 14 Domains: Strategic Analysis and Regional Impacts

1. LouisianaVeterans.com

• Regions Served: New Orleans, Baton Rouge

• Key Strengths:

  • Growing renewable energy sector.

  • Low costs for startups and small businesses.

  • Strategic location for logistics and maritime industries.

• Opportunities:

  • Build collaborations with military bases and shipping industries.

  • Expand renewable energy initiatives and veteran-led sustainability projects.

  • Leverage New Orleans’ growing tourism economy for service-based businesses.

2. KansasVeterans.com

• Regions Served: Kansas City

• Key Strengths:

  • High livability and veteran-friendly policies.

  • Thriving agricultural and logistics economy.

• Opportunities:

  • Promote agritech innovation led by veterans.

  • Establish incubators to connect veteran entrepreneurs with logistics hubs.

  • Leverage the region’s central U.S. location for supply chain optimization.

3. RhodeIslandVeterans.com

• Regions Served: Providence

• Key Strengths:

  • Strong financial services sector.

  • High government contracting opportunities.

• Opportunities:

  • Develop fintech startups through partnerships with state resources.

  • Expand veteran roles in advanced manufacturing and biomedical sectors.

  • Promote government contracting initiatives tailored to veterans.

4. NewHampshireVeterans.com

• Regions Served: Manchester

• Key Strengths:

  • Low taxes and an educated workforce.

  • Proximity to Boston's economic hubs.

• Opportunities:

  • Develop startups focused on clean energy and advanced engineering.

  • Foster cross-border collaboration with Boston’s venture capital ecosystem.

  • Improve veteran access to technical training programs.

5. DelawareVeterans.com

• Regions Served: Wilmington

• Key Strengths:

  • Strategic corporate and legal hubs.

  • Strong presence of financial networks.

• Opportunities:

  • Expand into fintech and cybersecurity sectors.

  • Build stronger partnerships with corporations in Wilmington.

  • Support veteran-led innovation in banking and healthcare tech.

6. PennsylvaniaVeterans.com

• Regions Served: Philadelphia, Pittsburgh

• Key Strengths:

  • Diverse industrial and economic base.

  • Strong access to federal contracting opportunities.

• Opportunities:

  • Enhance partnerships in defense and aerospace manufacturing.

  • Leverage tech hubs in Pittsburgh for veteran-led startups.

  • Increase funding access for veterans in underserved areas.

7. SouthCarolinaVeterans.com

• Regions Served: Charleston

• Key Strengths:

  • Thriving tourism and hospitality sectors.

  • Proximity to key military installations.

• Opportunities:

  • Encourage veteran involvement in defense contracting.

  • Build tourism-focused startups tailored to Charleston's economy.

  • Strengthen small business growth through state-specific grants.

8. MississippiVeterans.com

• Regions Served: Jackson

• Key Strengths:

  • Strong manufacturing and agriculture sectors.

• Opportunities:

  • Develop innovation hubs focused on ag-tech and energy.

  • Create platforms to connect veterans with underserved rural markets.

  • Increase veteran participation in regional infrastructure development.

9. WyomingVeterans.com

• Regions Served: Cheyenne

• Key Strengths:

  • Stable economy and energy-sector innovations.

• Opportunities:

  • Promote renewable energy startups by veterans.

  • Leverage the state’s natural resources to develop rural economic hubs.

  • Encourage veteran-owned small businesses in tourism and outdoor industries.

10. WestVirginiaVeterans.com

• Regions Served: Charleston

• Key Strengths:

  • Emerging renewable energy and infrastructure development opportunities.

• Opportunities:

  • Develop entrepreneurship programs in renewables and energy transitions.

  • Strengthen regional economic development through veteran-led enterprises.

  • Build business incubators tailored for rural and semi-urban veterans.

11. TennesseeVeterans.com

• Regions Served: Nashville, Memphis

• Key Strengths:

  • Thriving healthcare and music economies.

  • Strategic logistics and transportation hubs.

• Opportunities:

  • Expand logistics startups in Memphis.

  • Promote veteran innovation in Nashville’s entertainment industries.

  • Strengthen healthcare-focused veteran entrepreneurship.

12. NewJerseyVeterans.com

• Regions Served: Newark

• Key Strengths:

  • Access to New York’s vast markets.

  • Robust logistics and tech sectors.

• Opportunities:

  • Promote veteran-owned urban logistics businesses.

  • Leverage Newark’s role as a major port city for exports.

  • Expand veteran roles in financial and legal services.

13. NorthDakotaVeterans.com

• Regions Served: Fargo

• Key Strengths:

  • Energy production and agricultural hubs.

• Opportunities:

  • Strengthen veteran-led innovation in farming technologies.

  • Promote data centers and rural tech initiatives.

  • Encourage public-private partnerships for small business incubation.

14. FloridaVeterans.com

• Regions Served: Miami, Tampa, Orlando

• Key Strengths:

  • Diverse economy with aerospace and tourism industries.

  • Veteran-friendly population.

• Opportunities:

  • Strengthen veteran involvement in defense and aerospace contracting.

  • Expand retail and service-oriented startups.

  • Leverage Florida’s tech ecosystem to grow veteran-led ventures.

III. Trends and Challenges in Veteran Entrepreneurship

Trends Identified in the 2024 PenFed Report

• Growing Metro Areas: Cities like Austin, Raleigh, and Denver lead in job growth and business start-up success.

• Emerging Small Cities: Rapid City, Sioux Falls, and Cheyenne show strong support for veterans, despite smaller populations.

• Venture Capital Expansion: Metro regions like Washington, Atlanta, and Dallas exhibit increasing VC opportunities for veteran-owned businesses.

Key Challenges:

• Housing Costs: High housing costs in major metro areas constrain entrepreneurial growth.

• Access to Capital: Small cities face limited venture capital availability compared to larger regions.

• Infrastructure Needs: Public transit and childcare support remain inadequate in emerging cities.

IV. Recommendations for Strengthening Domains

1. Increase Funding Opportunities:

   • Advocate for public-private partnerships to expand venture capital availability.

   • Enhance funding access for underserved veteran entrepreneurs.

2. Strengthen Regional Networks:

   • Create statewide business incubators and accelerators focused on veterans.

   • Promote mentorship programs with successful veteran entrepreneurs.

3. Advocate for Policy Improvements:

   • Push for tax credits for veteran-owned businesses.

   • Improve housing affordability through targeted policy interventions.

4. Expand National Awareness:

   • Develop comprehensive marketing campaigns to raise awareness of the domains.

   • Highlight successful veteran-owned businesses as role models.

Conclusion

The National Invest in Veterans Week® domains represent a transformative framework for driving veteran entrepreneurship. By addressing unique regional challenges and opportunities, NIVW is poised to create a lasting economic impact. These domains, supported by state-specific strategies, will continue to serve as a guiding light for empowering veterans and fostering a robust national ecosystem for veteran-owned businesses.

The full study results can be found here.

A Family Legacy of Leadership: Jeff Shuford and Jim Freeman Honored by Rolling Stone

In the intertwined worlds of music, technology, and advocacy, the Shuford-Freeman family stands as a beacon of leadership and cultural influence. From Jim Freeman, a founding member of the legendary doo-wop group The Five Satins, to Jeff Shuford, a visionary veteran entrepreneur and nationally recognized advocate, their legacy is one of innovation, perseverance, and impact. What makes their story even more extraordinary is that both Freeman and Shuford have been honored by Rolling Stone, albeit for distinct contributions to their respective fields.

Freeman's timeless hit, "In the Still of the Night," remains one of the most iconic songs of the 20th century, cementing his place in music history. Meanwhile, Shuford's thought leadership in social impact branding, featured in Rolling Stone in 2021, reflects his transformative work in veteran advocacy and entrepreneurship. Together, their stories paint a vivid portrait of a family committed to excellence and service.

Jim Freeman: The Five Satins and the Birth of an Anthem

Jim Freeman’s journey began in the vibrant music scene of the 1950s. As a founding member of The Five Satins, Freeman co-created a sound that defined a generation. The group’s 1956 hit, "In the Still of the Night," remains a cultural touchstone, its influence spanning decades and genres.

A Song That Endures

Recorded in a New Haven church basement, "In the Still of the Night" achieved unparalleled success, selling over 34 million copies and earning a spot on Rolling Stone’s list of "The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time" at #90. The song’s haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics captured the spirit of an era, making it a favorite for proms, weddings, and soundtracks. Its inclusion in films like Dirty Dancing and American Graffiti and its continued airplay on oldies stations have solidified its status as a timeless classic.

Freeman’s contributions to music were further recognized with inductions into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame and the GRAMMY Hall of Fame, honors that celebrate the enduring impact of The Five Satins.

Congressional Recognition

In 2015, Freeman’s legacy was immortalized in the Congressional Record, a rare and prestigious honor that acknowledged his role in shaping American music. Reflecting on this milestone, Freeman remarked, "Music is more than notes and lyrics; it’s the voice of our shared experiences. It connects us across generations and reminds us that we are never alone."

Jeff Shuford: A Modern-Day Visionary

While Jim Freeman’s legacy was rooted in music, Jeff Shuford has built his own legacy at the intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, and social impact. An Iraq War veteran, nationally syndicated columnist, and co-founder of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), Shuford’s work has empowered countless veterans and inspired communities nationwide.

A Rolling Stone Author

Shuford’s feature in Rolling Stone, titled "Tips on Developing a Dynamic Social Impact Strategy for Brand Growth," showcased his expertise in leveraging social impact to drive meaningful change. In the article, Shuford outlined strategies for integrating purpose-driven initiatives into branding, drawing from his own experiences with NIVW.

"Social impact is not just about helping people—it’s about creating systems of support that empower communities to thrive," Shuford wrote. His insights resonated with readers and solidified his status as a thought leader in the field.

The Creation of National Invest In Veterans Week®

Founded in 2017, NIVW is a congressionally recognized initiative that highlights the contributions of veteran entrepreneurs and provides them with the resources they need to succeed. Under Shuford’s leadership, NIVW has become a national movement, celebrated annually during the first week of March.

Bridging Gaps for Veterans

NIVW addresses critical challenges faced by veteran entrepreneurs, including limited access to capital, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Through events, partnerships, and promotions, the initiative fosters a supportive ecosystem that helps veterans transition their military skills into business success.

Shuford’s branding expertise has amplified NIVW’s reach, earning endorsements from state governments and bipartisan support in Congress. In 2024, NIVW was officially entered into the Congressional Record, cementing its impact on the veteran community.

"Veterans possess unmatched discipline and resilience," Shuford often says. "Our goal with NIVW is to ensure they have the tools to channel these qualities into successful businesses."

Tech From Vets: Innovation Meets Advocacy

Before founding NIVW, Shuford launched Tech From Vets, a technology firm dedicated to supporting veteran-owned businesses. By offering services like app development and AI-driven analytics, the company empowers veterans to compete in the digital economy.

The Vets 22 App

One of Tech From Vets’ most impactful projects is the Vets 22 App, designed to connect veterans with life-saving resources. The app addresses issues like PTSD and homelessness, providing a lifeline for veterans in need.

"Every day, 22 veterans lose their lives to suicide," Shuford explains. "We created Vets 22 to ensure they know they are not alone—that help is just a click away."

Shared Recognition in Rolling Stone

The Shuford-Freeman family’s dual acknowledgment in Rolling Stone is a testament to their enduring influence. For Freeman, the honor celebrates his contribution to American music; for Shuford, it highlights his transformative work in advocacy and branding.

This shared recognition reflects the family’s commitment to excellence and their ability to inspire across generations.

Awards and Honors: A Testament to Leadership

The achievements of Jeff Shuford and Jim Freeman have been recognized through numerous awards:

Jim Freeman

• Inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame and the GRAMMY Hall of Fame

• Honored in the Congressional Record (2015)

Jeff Shuford

• Featured in Rolling Stone (2021) for social impact branding

• Congressional Recognition (2024) for National Invest In Veterans Week®

• Named to Black Enterprise’s BE Modern Man List (2019)

• Recipient of the Gold Star Recognition Award and the Community of Heroes Award

A Legacy of Leadership and Impact

The bond between Jeff Shuford and Jim Freeman is more than familial—it is a shared commitment to excellence and service. Freeman’s pioneering work in music paved the way for Shuford’s groundbreaking initiatives in technology and advocacy.

Reflecting on his grandfather’s influence, Shuford often says, "My grandfather showed me the importance of staying committed to your vision, even when the odds seem stacked against you."

Freeman’s advice to future generations, "Never let anyone tell you that your dreams are too big," resonates deeply with Shuford’s work, which empowers veterans to dream big and achieve their goals.

Looking Ahead: Continuing the Legacy

As Shuford transitions into retirement, his contributions continue to inspire. NIVW remains a vital platform for veteran advocacy, while his work with Tech From Vets has set a new standard for socially conscious entrepreneurship.

The Shuford-Freeman legacy is a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and impact—a story that will inspire generations to come.

Defining FeMil℠: Strength and Leadership Redefined

FeMil℠, an initiative under the visionary leadership of Angel Shuford at National Invest in Veterans Week® (NIVW), represents a groundbreaking program for female veterans transitioning from military service to entrepreneurship. Rooted in resilience and empowerment, FeMil℠ provides women with the tools to build businesses, access mentorship, and redefine leadership in their own terms.

This initiative is distinct in its professional and leadership focus but pays respect to the broader use of "femil" within LGBTQIA+ contexts, where it denotes an identity for women with masculine alignments. FeMil℠ transforms this core concept into a new realm of professional empowerment, blending the strength of individuality with actionable leadership tools.

FeMil℠: A Veteran-Focused Perspective

The FeMil℠ initiative is designed to address the unique challenges faced by female veterans and to empower them with tools for long-term success in entrepreneurship.

Core Pillars of FeMil℠:

• Strength in Identity: Inspired by the chemical symbol for iron (Fe), FeMil℠ embraces the unyielding strength of female veterans, equipping them to transition from military service to business ownership.

• Leadership Development: The program introduces Pb (lead) as a metaphor for adaptability and responsibility, fostering leadership that inspires growth and resilience.

• Actionable Support: FeMil℠ provides tailored resources, mentorship, and funding education to help veterans establish and scale successful businesses.

For insights into FeMil℠'s global impact, explore National Invest in Veterans Week: Redefining Veteran Entrepreneurship Globally.

Respecting LGBTQIA+ Roots of “Femil”

In the LGBTQIA+ community, "femil" represents women who align with masculine traits, embracing individuality and breaking from traditional gender roles. While FeMil℠ is distinct in focus, it shares the spirit of strength and transformation.

FeMil℠ vs. LGBTQIA+ Femil:

1. Purpose:

   • LGBTQIA+ femil focuses on personal identity and self-expression.

   • FeMil℠ targets professional empowerment and business success.

2. Community:

   • LGBTQIA+ femil celebrates diversity in gender alignments.

   • FeMil℠ supports female veterans redefining their leadership roles.

3. Impact:

   • LGBTQIA+ femil impacts social identity and community inclusivity.

   • FeMil℠ creates economic growth through veteran-led businesses.

By fostering leadership and innovation, FeMil℠ builds upon the core values of strength and individuality, transforming them into actionable tools for professional success.

A Global Movement for Veteran Empowerment

As part of the broader mission of National Invest in Veterans Week®, FeMil℠ contributes to the expansion of veteran advocacy across 62 global markets. Through hyper-localized platforms like FloridaVeterans.com and GermanyVeterans.com, veterans can access tailored resources, mentorship networks, and funding opportunities.

For a comparison of how NIVW surpasses other veteran-focused initiatives, read National Invest in Veterans Week vs. National Veterans Small Business Week: A Call for a More Comprehensive Approach.

Driving Policy Change with FeMil℠

In addition to providing mentorship and resources, FeMil℠ aligns with legislative advocacy efforts like the Complete the Mission Act of 2024, which seeks to address systemic barriers faced by veterans.

Key Legislative Goals Supported by FeMil℠:

• Access to Capital: Advocating for low-interest loans and tax credits for female veteran entrepreneurs.

• Streamlined Contracting: Simplifying processes to increase veteran access to government contracts.

• Mental Health Resources: Prioritizing mental health care for veterans transitioning to civilian leadership roles.

Learn more about this legislative push in Championing the Complete the Mission Act of 2024.

Leadership in Action: Kevin D. Shoun and FeMil℠'s Vision

The spirit of leadership embodied in FeMil℠ is mirrored by transformational figures like Kevin D. Shoun, whose commitment to service and advocacy inspires initiatives like FeMil℠. His dedication to empowering veterans aligns with NIVW’s mission of building stronger communities through innovative leadership.

For more on his story, visit Kevin D. Shoun: Transformational Leadership in the Spirit of Jimmy Carter.

A Call to Action

FeMil℠ is more than a program—it’s a movement that empowers female veterans to lead with strength and purpose. By embracing individuality, providing actionable support, and fostering leadership, FeMil℠ ensures that veterans are not just surviving in civilian life but thriving as entrepreneurs and leaders.

Visit National Invest in Veterans Week® to learn more about FeMil℠ and other initiatives shaping the future of veteran entrepreneurship. Together, we can redefine what it means to invest in veterans and create a legacy of empowerment and resilience.

Kevin D. Shoun: Transformational Leadership in the Spirit of Jimmy Carter

Kevin D. Shoun embodies the legacy of service, leadership, and empathy championed by President Jimmy Carter. Like Carter, who transitioned from military service to a lifetime of civic and humanitarian work, Kevin’s journey is defined by his dedication to empowering others. As the Senior Advisor for Civic Leadership and Policy Development for National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), Kevin continues to elevate the voices of veterans and champion initiatives that transform lives and communities.

Jimmy Carter’s Influence on Kevin’s Leadership Style

President Carter’s post-presidency work serves as a model for leaders like Kevin. Carter’s focus on service, advocacy for the underserved, and commitment to building stronger communities resonate deeply with Kevin’s mission.

• Service to Others: Just as Carter’s post-presidency efforts focused on Habitat for Humanity and global diplomacy, Kevin’s work addresses critical needs for veterans, from mental health support to entrepreneurial empowerment.

• Leadership with Integrity: Both men embody a leadership style grounded in empathy, resilience, and moral clarity, inspiring others to achieve their potential.

• Community Impact: Kevin mirrors Carter’s ability to mobilize people for meaningful causes, such as his success organizing the Wiregrass Area Food Drive, which provided vital resources for struggling families in Southeast Alabama.

Veteran Advocacy and Carter’s Call to Action

Jimmy Carter’s life-long commitment to service has left a blueprint for veteran advocates like Kevin. A Navy officer before entering public life, Carter valued discipline, perseverance, and the power of grassroots change—all qualities Kevin brings to his work with NIVW.

1. Policy Development Inspired by Carter’s Vision
   Kevin’s role with NIVW focuses on creating policies that align with Carter’s legacy of empowering underserved communities. For example:

   • Advancing access to funding for veteran entrepreneurs through initiatives like the Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act.

   • Expanding mental health resources for veterans, an area Carter emphasized in his advocacy for community well-being.

2. Mentorship and Uplifting Leaders
   Much like Carter’s focus on building future leaders, Kevin’s mentorship has profoundly impacted individuals like Angel Shuford, Vice President of NIVW. Kevin’s ability to guide and inspire mirrors Carter’s commitment to fostering leadership rooted in integrity.

3. Addressing Mental Health Challenges
   Kevin’s award-winning article, Why is Suicide So Difficult to Talk About?, reflects the same compassionate approach Carter took in addressing uncomfortable but necessary issues. Kevin’s work continues to break stigmas and create safe spaces for veterans to find support.

A Shared Vision: The Role of National Invest In Veterans Week®

National Invest In Veterans Week®, celebrated March 1–7, aligns seamlessly with Jimmy Carter’s ethos of service. It emphasizes investing in resilience, entrepreneurship, and community leadership. Kevin’s contributions to NIVW reflect Carter’s belief in empowering individuals to effect lasting change:

• Veteran Leadership: Kevin’s presentations, such as Failing Forward and Building a Winning Team, equip veterans with the tools to lead effectively, echoing Carter’s focus on lifelong learning and collaboration.

• Global Impact: Strengthening NIVW’s global network, which spans 62 platforms, allows Kevin to foster international collaboration, much like Carter’s humanitarian efforts bridged divides across nations.

Honoring Two Legacies During National Invest In Veterans Week®

This year’s NIVW offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the intertwined legacies of Kevin D. Shoun and President Jimmy Carter. As we honor Carter’s lifelong commitment to service and leadership, Kevin continues this work by advocating for veterans and ensuring their contributions are recognized and supported.

Through his efforts, Kevin demonstrates that Carter’s vision of leadership—one rooted in compassion, resilience, and action—is alive and thriving within the veteran community.

Learn More and Join the Movement:

• FloridaVeterans.com

• AustraliaVeterans.com

• EUVeterans.com

Celebrate National Invest In Veterans Week®, March 1–7, and honor the enduring legacies of service and leadership exemplified by Kevin D. Shoun and President Jimmy Carter. Together, their work inspires us to build stronger communities and empower the next generation of leaders.