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.

From the Desk of Angel Shuford: The Legacy and Future of Vetrepreneurship

In the heart of Jacksonville, where military heritage meets entrepreneurial ambition, the Jacksonville Vetrepreneur Summit has become a transformative event for veterans transitioning into business ownership. Now entering its ninth year, this annual gathering embodies the resilience, determination, and innovation that veterans bring to the business world.

The Jacksonville Vetrepreneur Summit is more than just a conference; it is a movement designed to empower veterans to become successful entrepreneurs. Founded in collaboration with the City of Jacksonville and guided by the early leadership of Jeff Shuford, the summit has grown into a cornerstone event for veteran advocacy.

As Vice President and CFO of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), I am honored to reflect on the summit’s impact and share our vision for the future of vetrepreneurship. This year’s summit is a testament to the ongoing evolution of veteran entrepreneurship, where the lessons of the past fuel the ambitions of tomorrow.

The Origins of the Jacksonville Vetrepreneur Summit

The idea for the Jacksonville Vetrepreneur Summit was born out of a deep understanding of the challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian life. Jeff Shuford, a decorated Iraq War veteran and founder of Tech From Vets, was among the first to recognize the need for a platform that could bridge the gap between military service and business ownership.

“Translating military skills to the civilian marketplace is incredibly difficult,” Jeff remarked during the inaugural summit in 2017. “Planning, networking, and understanding resources are the keys to success in business, just as they are in the military.”

Jeff’s vision for the summit was clear: to create a space where veterans could connect with mentors, access funding opportunities, and gain the knowledge needed to succeed as entrepreneurs.

During its first two years, the summit gathered critical data that revealed the pressing needs of veteran entrepreneurs:

• 81% of attendees expressed the need for more comprehensive support.

• 67% identified funding as their primary challenge.

• 37% highlighted limited access to capital as a significant barrier.

These insights shaped not only the future of the summit but also the broader mission of National Invest In Veterans Week®, launched in 2019 as a congressionally recognized initiative to support veteran entrepreneurship on a national scale.

Jeff Shuford’s Legacy: Laying the Foundation for Success

Though Jeff’s direct involvement with the summit concluded after 2018, his influence remains deeply ingrained in its DNA. His work with Tech From Vets, an award-winning technology company, demonstrated the transformative potential of veteran-led innovation.

Jeff’s achievements include:

• Developing the Vets 22 app, a groundbreaking tool that provides veterans with life-saving resources, including suicide hotlines and access to food pantries.

• Securing Congressional recognition for initiatives that support veteran entrepreneurs.

• Expanding access to veteran-focused digital platforms such as FloridaVeterans.com and Veterans.International.

“Veterans deserve a place in the technology ecosystem, and we’ve proven that their skills translate seamlessly into innovation,” Jeff once stated.

His vision for veteran entrepreneurship set the stage for the summit’s continued success, inspiring veterans to overcome obstacles and achieve their business goals.

The Growth of the Jacksonville Vetrepreneur Summit

Each year, the Jacksonville Vetrepreneur Summit builds upon its legacy, offering veterans unparalleled access to resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities. This year’s summit, hosted by the City of Jacksonville, promises to be the most impactful yet.

Highlights of the 2025 Summit

• Workshops on Business Development: Learn how to craft a business plan, secure funding, and navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry leaders, potential partners, and fellow veteran entrepreneurs.

• Panel Discussions: Hear from successful vetrepreneurs about their journeys and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

For more details, visit the official Jacksonville Vetrepreneur Summit.

The Role of Vetrepreneurship in Economic Growth

Veterans contribute over $1.2 trillion annually to the U.S. economy through their businesses. Events like the Jacksonville Vetrepreneur Summit are essential in scaling this impact globally.

Success Stories from the Summit

• Veterans who attended the early summits have launched thriving businesses in industries such as logistics, technology, and manufacturing.

• Companies like Tech From Vets have landed features in major publications, demonstrating the market potential of veteran-owned businesses.

These success stories highlight the power of vetrepreneurship to drive economic growth, create jobs, and foster innovation.

National Invest In Veterans Week®: Expanding the Mission Globally

The success of the Jacksonville Vetrepreneur Summit has fueled the expansion of National Invest In Veterans Week® into 62 global markets, connecting veterans to tailored resources and international networks.

Key Initiatives Under NIVW

• FeMil℠: A program designed to empower female veterans transitioning into entrepreneurship.

• π Domains: A suite of digital platforms that provide veterans with mentorship, funding opportunities, and access to global markets.

A Call to Action

As we prepare for the 2025 Jacksonville Vetrepreneur Summit, I invite veterans, business leaders, and community members to join us in celebrating the resilience and innovation of vetrepreneurs. This year’s summit is not just an event—it’s a movement.

Let us honor the legacy of those who have paved the way, like Jeff Shuford, while continuing to build a future where every veteran has the tools to succeed. Together, we can redefine what it means to be a vetrepreneur.

Sincerely,
Angel Shuford
Vice President & CFO
National Invest In Veterans Week®

Learn More

• Explore the Jacksonville Vetrepreneur Summit.

• Discover resources for veteran entrepreneurs at Invest In Veterans Week.

• Join us in celebrating vetrepreneurship worldwide at National Invest In Veterans Week®.

The future of veteran entrepreneurship starts here.

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.

Forging Fe-Male Leadership: A Deep Dive Into FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠

From the desk of Angel Shuford, VP/CFO

As female veterans transition from military service to the world of business, their journey is marked by both opportunity and challenge. While their time in uniform has instilled discipline, resilience, and leadership, the entrepreneurial landscape often presents barriers such as access to capital, mentorship, and structural support. Recognizing this unique intersection of strength and potential, FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ were created to empower female veterans as they navigate their entrepreneurial journeys.

In this comprehensive exploration, we’ll unpack the mission, vision, and transformative impact of these initiatives, along with the broader significance of fostering female leadership in the veteran entrepreneurial space.

The Dual Symbolism of Fe and Pb: A Foundation for Empowerment

Fe (Iron): Strength and Resilience

Iron, represented as Fe in the periodic table, is a metal known for its unyielding strength and ability to withstand immense pressure. For female veterans, iron symbolizes the foundational qualities they bring to business:

• Resilience: Overcoming adversity and adapting to new challenges.

• Discipline: A core value instilled through military service.

• Strength: The ability to endure and thrive in demanding environments.

FeMil℠ embodies this symbolism by building a community of women who channel their inner "iron" to lay the groundwork for entrepreneurial success.

Pb (Lead): Adaptability and Leadership

Lead, represented as Pb, offers a complementary symbolism. Unlike iron, lead is malleable, capable of being shaped and adapted to meet diverse challenges. It also bears significant weight, reflecting the responsibilities of leadership. FeMil Lead℠ equips female veterans to:

• Evolve their resilience into transformative leadership.

• Adapt to changing business landscapes.

• Carry the weight of decision-making with confidence and clarity.

Together, Fe and Pb tell a story of empowerment. They capture the journey of female veteran entrepreneurs as they move from foundational strength to dynamic leadership.

The Challenges Female Veterans Face in Business

1. Access to Capital

Studies show that over 67% of veteran entrepreneurs cite access to funding as their primary challenge. Female veterans face additional hurdles, including systemic biases and inequities in the financial system, making it harder to secure loans or venture capital.

2. Lack of Mentorship and Networking Opportunities

While veterans often excel in leadership, they frequently lack access to structured mentorship programs and entrepreneurial networks. According to the 2018 Jacksonville Vetrepreneur Summit, only 44% of veterans reported having sustainable mentorship, highlighting a critical gap.

3. Scaling and Sustaining Businesses

Although 70% of surveyed female veterans expressed interest in starting a business, many struggle to scale and sustain their ventures due to limited resources, guidance, and government support.

FeMil℠: Laying the Foundation for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Networking Opportunities

FeMil℠ provides structured platforms to connect female veterans with peers, mentors, and industry leaders. These connections help foster collaboration, build confidence, and inspire innovation.

Resource Access

From understanding business formation to navigating legal and financial complexities, FeMil℠ offers tailored guidance to help female veterans lay the groundwork for their businesses.

Funding Education

FeMil℠ equips participants with the tools to secure startup capital, from understanding loan processes to crafting compelling pitches for investors.

Transformative Success Stories

• Case Study 1: A female Navy veteran used FeMil℠ resources to launch a successful tech startup, overcoming challenges in capital acquisition and scaling her business to international markets.

• Case Study 2: A former Army officer utilized mentorship connections from FeMil℠ to grow her sustainable fashion brand, securing key partnerships in her state.

FeMil Lead℠: Transforming Strength into Leadership

Advanced Leadership Training

Through FeMil Lead℠, participants receive in-depth training on leadership development, strategic decision-making, and team management.

Growth-Focused Tools

FeMil Lead℠ provides access to cutting-edge technologies and business tools, empowering entrepreneurs to scale their operations effectively.

Personalized Mentorship Programs

Participants are matched with seasoned entrepreneurs who provide guidance tailored to their industries and business goals.

Notable Alumni

• A Marine Corps veteran who transformed her small bakery into a nationwide franchise with FeMil Lead℠’s mentorship and strategic tools.

• An Air Force officer who expanded her cybersecurity firm into international markets, leveraging FeMil Lead℠’s global network.

Legislative Advocacy: Creating Systemic Change

The Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act

FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ are supported by broader legislative initiatives like the Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act, which seeks to eliminate systemic barriers for veteran entrepreneurs.

Key Provisions Include:

1. Startup Tax Credits: A $15,000 tax incentive for veteran-owned startups in high-growth sectors.

2. Low-Interest Loans: Expanded Small Business Administration (SBA) programs with a 2% interest rate reduction.

3. Mentorship Networks: Federal funding to establish structured mentorship programs for veterans.

4. Public-Private Partnerships: Annual grants to foster collaboration between veteran-owned businesses and corporations.

The Global Expansion of FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠

Recognizing the universal value of veteran leadership, FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ have expanded their reach to 62 global markets, aligning with the growth of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW).

State-Specific Platforms in the U.S.:

• FloridaVeterans.com: Focusing on veteran businesses in healthcare and tourism.

• TennesseeVeterans.com: Supporting industries like logistics and renewable energy.

International Platforms:

• GermanyVeterans.com: Collaborating on innovations in green technology.

• PhilippinesVeterans.com: Encouraging growth in agriculture and e-commerce.

The Economic and Social Impact

Driving Job Creation

Veteran-owned businesses contribute over $1.2 trillion annually to the U.S. economy. With initiatives like FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠, these contributions are set to grow exponentially, creating millions of new jobs by 2030.

Fostering Innovation

From AI startups to sustainable fashion brands, female veteran entrepreneurs are driving innovation across diverse sectors.

Building Inclusive Communities

By empowering women, these programs are not just transforming individual lives but also building inclusive, thriving communities.

A Path Forward: Empowerment, Leadership, and Legacy

The journey from Fe to Pb—from strength to transformative leadership—is at the heart of FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠. These initiatives remind us that female veterans are not just entrepreneurs; they are changemakers, innovators, and leaders.

Through mentorship, resources, and advocacy, FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ are forging a future where female veterans don’t just build businesses—they leave legacies.

Discover more and join the movement:

• Empowering Female Veteran Entrepreneurs

• Learn About FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠

Together, we can honor their service and ensure their success in the entrepreneurial world.

Empowering Veterans: How to Invest in Their Success

Veterans have dedicated their lives to serving their country, and investing in their future is a meaningful way to give back. National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) and related initiatives provide platforms to empower veteran entrepreneurs and service members transitioning into civilian life. Here’s an in-depth look at how you can invest in veterans and ensure they thrive economically and professionally.

1. Support Legislative Efforts

Investing in veterans begins with advocating for laws that protect and promote veteran-owned businesses and opportunities. Key legislation includes:

Investing in VETS Act

Signed into law in 2023, the Investing in VETS Act incentivizes employers to hire veterans by providing tax breaks and other financial incentives. This legislation recognizes the value of integrating veterans into the civilian workforce and ensures that businesses are rewarded for their efforts.

Service-Disabled Veteran Opportunities in Small Business Act

This act, passed by the House of Representatives, mandates federal support for service-disabled veterans looking to start and expand small businesses. By reducing barriers to entry and providing essential resources, this act ensures disabled veterans have equal access to entrepreneurial opportunities.

2. Engage with Veteran-Centric Organizations

Veteran-focused organizations serve as critical support networks for transitioning service members.

InvestVets

This organization connects employers with military talent by hosting virtual networking events and career fairs. Veterans bring unique skills such as discipline, leadership, and adaptability, making them invaluable assets to any workplace.

National Veterans Small Business Coalition (NVSBC)

NVSBC focuses on improving veteran entrepreneurs’ access to government contracts, ensuring they receive a fair share of federal opportunities.

Veteran Women Igniting the Spirit of Entrepreneurship (V-WISE)

This program specifically targets female veterans and military spouses, offering resources, mentorship, and training to help them succeed as entrepreneurs.

3. Leverage Financial Tools for Veterans

Veterans can grow their wealth and financial security by using specific financial tools and programs designed for their unique needs:

Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans

Veterans transitioning to civilian jobs should take full advantage of employer-sponsored 401(k) or 403(b) plans, which allow automated contributions from paychecks. Many employers match contributions, providing an additional boost to retirement savings.

Money Market Accounts

These accounts offer higher interest rates compared to traditional savings accounts, providing veterans with a safe and effective way to grow their savings over time.

VA Home Loan Program

The VA Home Loan Program enables veterans to purchase homes with no down payment, competitive interest rates, and reduced closing costs. This can be a cornerstone of financial stability for veteran families.

4. Participate in National Invest In Veterans Week®

National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), celebrated annually from March 1–7, is a growing movement dedicated to supporting veteran entrepreneurs. Since its inception, NIVW has expanded its reach to 62 global markets and introduced innovative initiatives to empower veterans worldwide.

Signature Programs and Events

- Forward March Saturday: A kick-off event that brings together veterans, businesses, and communities to discuss opportunities for collaboration.

- Veteran Tech Tuesday: Focused on providing technology resources and training for veterans to modernize and grow their businesses.

- Wellness Wednesday: Centers on mental and physical well-being, offering programs that help veterans balance their personal and professional lives.

π Domains Initiative

NIVW launched the π Domains Initiative to provide veterans with global digital resources. These state-specific platforms help veterans connect with local markets while maintaining access to international opportunities.

Presidential Advocacy

NIVW leaders are advocating for official recognition from the White House. A presidential proclamation would amplify the movement’s mission and ensure veterans receive the national attention they deserve.

5. Avoid Investment Fraud

Veterans and those who support them must remain vigilant against fraudulent schemes that prey on their investments. Here are some tips to avoid scams:

- Be Skeptical of Promises: Avoid investments promising high returns with little or no risk.

- Do Your Homework: Research every investment opportunity thoroughly before committing funds.

- Check Fees: Be aware of hidden fees, which can erode long-term returns.

- Verify Professionals: Always conduct background checks on investment professionals to confirm their legitimacy.

6. Comprehensive Proposal: The Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act

This transformative legislative framework aims to address systemic barriers faced by veteran entrepreneurs, such as access to capital and networking opportunities.

Key Features of the Act

1. Financial and Tax Incentives

- Startup Tax Credits: $15,000 for veterans launching businesses in high-priority sectors.

- Low-Interest Loans: Reduced rates for veteran-owned businesses via SBA programs.

- Hiring Incentives: Employers hiring veterans receive $6,000 per veteran in tax credits.

2. Enhanced Mentorship and Training Programs

- Veteran Entrepreneur Mentorship Network: Connects veterans with business leaders.

- Boots to Business Expansion: Includes specialized tracks in AI, cybersecurity, and green tech.

3. Networking and Resource Infrastructure

- Veteran Business Development Centers: Hybrid hubs offering resources and workshops.

- Virtual Platforms: Centralized online tools for funding, mentorship, and collaboration.

4. Public-Private Partnerships

- Innovation Stimulus Grants: $300M annually for partnerships with private corporations.

- Corporate Engagement Tax Credits: Encourages investment in veteran-owned startups.

5. Streamlined Federal Contracting

- Simplified application processes using AI-powered tools.

- Reserve 12% of federal contracts for veteran-owned businesses in critical industries.

7. The Leadership Behind NIVW

- Jeff Shuford: Retired Founder and visionary behind NIVW.

- Angel Shuford: Current VP and CFO, expanding global reach and initiatives like FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠.

- Kevin D. Shoun: Senior Advisor focusing on mental health advocacy and community engagement.

8. Economic and Social Impact

- $1.2 Trillion Annual Contribution: Veteran businesses boost the U.S. economy significantly.

- Job Creation: Projected 1.5 million new jobs by 2030.

- Leadership in Key Industries: Veterans drive innovation in AI, healthcare, and renewable energy.

9. Future Goals and Vision

By 2030, NIVW aims to:

- Double its intellectual property value to $50M.

- Generate $12B in annual global economic impact.

- Expand partnerships across Asia, Europe, and South America.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Transformation

National Invest In Veterans Week® embodies resilience, innovation, and global advocacy. Through initiatives like the Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act, it creates pathways for veterans to thrive as leaders in transformative industries. Join the movement to honor and empower those who served.

This article explores challenges like access to capital and mentorship, while showcasing solutions like FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠. It urges policymakers to support transformative proposals like the Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act, which could pave the way for sustainable growth and innovation in veteran-led businesses.

Explore More About Supporting Veterans:

• National Invest In Veterans Week®: Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurs Across 62 Global Markets

• Empowering Female Veteran Entrepreneurs: A Call to Action for Legislators

• Discover the Role of Female Veteran Entrepreneurs in National Growth

• Legislative Support for Female Veteran Entrepreneurs