A International Movement Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurs

In a groundbreaking collaboration, the National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) has joined forces with the International Chamber of Veteran Entrepreneurs (ICVE) and the American Society of Veteran Business Owners (ASVBO) to redefine veteran entrepreneurship. Through innovation, advocacy, and global outreach, these organizations are creating an unparalleled ecosystem that empowers veterans transitioning into civilian and entrepreneurial roles.

Under the leadership of Angel Shuford, Vice President and CFO of NIVW, and with the legacy of co-founder Jeff Shuford, this initiative has expanded its mission to connect veterans across 62 global markets. It provides tailored resources, mentorship, and a shared vision of leadership, resilience, and economic empowerment.

Angel Shuford: The Visionary Behind the Movement

Angel Shuford brings a unique blend of military discipline, business acumen, and innovative thinking to her role at NIVW. Speaking in a recent interview, Angel shared:

“National Invest In Veterans Week® is more than an event—it’s a movement. Our mission is to honor veterans by empowering them with the tools they need to succeed, whether in business, community leadership, or personal growth. Expanding into 62 markets has allowed us to connect veterans with localized resources and global opportunities. It’s about building a future where veterans can thrive.”

Angel’s leadership has been pivotal in launching programs like FeMil℠, a transformative initiative for female veterans. Her efforts emphasize the importance of inclusivity, innovation, and advocacy in shaping the future of veteran entrepreneurship.

FeMil℠: Strength and Leadership Redefined

FeMil℠, a cornerstone of NIVW, focuses on empowering female veterans transitioning to entrepreneurship. Rooted in resilience and individuality, FeMil℠ provides tools for leadership development, business growth, and personal empowerment.

Core Pillars of FeMil℠

1. Strength in Identity: Inspired by the chemical symbol for iron (Fe), FeMil℠ symbolizes the unyielding strength of female veterans.

2. Leadership Development: Equipping participants with skills and mentorship to foster adaptive and responsible leadership.

3. Actionable Support: Offering resources, funding education, and mentorship programs tailored to female veterans.

Angel Shuford explains:

“FeMil℠ is about redefining leadership on your own terms. It’s about harnessing the strength you’ve developed during service and channeling it into entrepreneurship and innovation. Female veterans bring incredible value to the business world, and we’re here to support that transition.”

Global Expansion: Connecting 62 Markets

The expansion of NIVW into 62 global markets marks a transformative chapter in its mission. Platforms like FloridaVeterans.com and GermanyVeterans.com provide veterans with localized resources while fostering cross-border collaboration.

Key Regional and International Platforms

• LouisianaVeterans.com: Supporting veterans in the southern U.S.

• AustraliaVeterans.com: Tailored for Asia-Pacific veterans.

• InvestInVeteransWeek.com: A global hub for networking, mentorship, and resources.

These platforms create a seamless ecosystem for veterans, bridging gaps between local opportunities and international networks.

“Our goal is to ensure that veterans have access to the resources they need, no matter where they are. This global approach fosters collaboration, innovation, and a shared sense of purpose among veterans worldwide,” says Angel Shuford.

Technological Innovation: The Role of the π Domains

Technology plays a central role in NIVW’s mission to empower veterans. The introduction of the π Domains has revolutionized access to resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

Key Features of the π Domains

• π.digital: A hub of tools, articles, and best practices for veteran entrepreneurs.

• π.guru: A mentorship platform connecting veterans with industry leaders.

• π.directory: A comprehensive listing of veteran-owned businesses, boosting visibility and collaboration.

“The π Domains represent our commitment to leveraging technology to empower veterans. They make resources accessible and actionable, enabling veterans to overcome barriers and succeed in their entrepreneurial journeys,” explains Angel.

Economic and Social Impact

Veteran-owned businesses contribute over $1.2 trillion annually to the U.S. economy. NIVW aims to replicate this success on a global scale by connecting veterans with funding opportunities, mentorship, and collaborative networks.

Key Initiatives Driving Economic Growth

• FeMil Lead℠: Advanced leadership training for female veterans.

• State and International Platforms: Localized resources for economic development.

• Partnerships with Industry Leaders: Collaborating with global brands to support veteran entrepreneurs.

“Veterans are natural innovators. By supporting their entrepreneurial efforts, we’re not just helping individuals—we’re strengthening communities and economies worldwide,” Angel highlights.

Legislative Advocacy and Policy Change

FeMil℠ and NIVW are also driving systemic change through legislative advocacy. Initiatives like the Complete the Mission Act of 2024 focus on addressing barriers faced by veterans, including access to capital, streamlined contracting processes, and mental health resources.

Key Legislative Goals

• Advocating for low-interest loans and tax credits for veteran entrepreneurs.

• Simplifying government contracting processes for veteran-owned businesses.

• Enhancing mental health support for veterans transitioning to leadership roles.

Learn more about these efforts in Championing the Complete the Mission Act of 2024.

Jeff Shuford: A Legacy of Leadership

Jeff Shuford, co-founder of NIVW and ASVBO, has left an indelible mark on veteran advocacy. His visionary leadership expanded NIVW into 40 markets, creating the largest network of veteran-focused platforms.

Now serving as Honorary Ambassador of Veterans Affairs, Jeff’s retirement marks a transition to a new era under Angel Shuford’s leadership.

“Jeff’s legacy is one of innovation, resilience, and unwavering dedication to veterans. We’re honored to build on his vision and continue driving meaningful change,” Angel shares.

Events: Celebrating Veteran Entrepreneurship

Mark your calendars for the 2025 National Invest In Veterans Week® (March 1-7). This week-long celebration features events designed to inspire, educate, and connect veteran entrepreneurs.

Key Events

• Jeff Shuford Impact Day℠ (March 7th): Celebrating leadership and innovation.

• International Veterans Day℠ (March 3rd): Honoring global military values.

• Tech Tuesday: Exploring technology-driven solutions for veterans.

“These events are about building community, sharing knowledge, and celebrating the contributions of veteran entrepreneurs. It’s a powerful reminder of what veterans can achieve,” says Angel.

A Call to Action: Join the Movement

The partnership between NIVW, ICVE, and ASVBO represents a bold step forward in veteran advocacy. By combining resources, leveraging technology, and fostering collaboration, these organizations are empowering veterans to thrive as entrepreneurs, leaders, and innovators.

Get Involved

• Explore FeMil℠

• Learn About NIVW’s Global Reach

• Champion Legislative Change

“Together, we can redefine what it means to invest in veterans. Let’s honor their service by empowering them to succeed,” concludes Angel Shuford.

Join the movement and be part of the transformation. The future of veteran entrepreneurship starts here.

FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠: Redefining Female Veteran Leadership During National Invest In Veterans Week®

National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), held annually from March 1–7, celebrates veteran entrepreneurs' resilience, innovation, and contributions to the global economy. Among its groundbreaking initiatives, FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠, championed by Angel Shuford, have emerged as transformative programs empowering female veteran entrepreneurs to overcome barriers and thrive in leadership roles.

Female veterans embody the resilience, leadership, and adaptability gained through military service, but they face systemic challenges when transitioning to civilian careers. FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ bridge these gaps, offering resources, mentorship, and pathways to leadership. This is a movement, not just a program—it’s about forging a new era of female veteran leadership.

The Mission Behind FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠

• FeMil℠: Focused on early-stage entrepreneurship, FeMil℠ empowers female veterans by providing resources like funding education, networking opportunities, and strategies to secure startup capital. It transforms resilience into business success.

• FeMil Lead℠: Designed for advanced entrepreneurs, FeMil Lead℠ emphasizes leadership development and scalability. The program offers one-on-one mentorship, advanced leadership training, and growth-focused strategies, equipping female veterans to compete globally.

These initiatives align with the National Invest In Veterans Week® mission, ensuring that female veterans are not just included but lead the charge in reshaping the entrepreneurial landscape.

Overcoming Systemic Barriers

Despite their strengths, female veterans face substantial challenges, including:

1. Access to Capital: Nearly half of female veteran entrepreneurs report being denied loans, highlighting the need for targeted funding solutions. FeMil℠ educates women on navigating financial systems and connects them with funding opportunities.

2. Scaling Businesses: FeMil Lead℠ provides tools to ensure that female veterans not only start businesses but also sustain and scale them.

3. Lack of Mentorship: Many female veterans struggle to find mentors who understand their unique experiences. FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ fill this void by fostering mentorship networks tailored to female veterans' needs.

Why FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ Matter During NIVW

National Invest In Veterans Week® is more than a celebration—it’s a platform for change. Programs like FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ amplify the voices of female veteran entrepreneurs, ensuring their contributions are recognized and supported. During NIVW, FeMil℠ hosts events like Veteran Tech Tuesday and Forward March Saturday, creating opportunities for networking, mentorship, and advocacy.

FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ also highlight the importance of legislative support, advocating for policies like the Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act, which provides tax incentives, mentorship funding, and federal contracting opportunities for veteran-owned businesses.

Legislative Action: The Missing Piece

While FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ are making strides, systemic change requires legislative action. Proposed policies like the Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act would:

• Provide Tax Incentives: Support veteran-owned startups with tax credits and low-interest loans.

• Expand Mentorship Programs: Allocate federal funding to expand initiatives like FeMil Lead℠.

• Simplify Federal Contracting: Reserve contracts specifically for veteran-owned businesses and streamline the application process.

These measures are vital for creating an equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem where female veterans can thrive.

Join the Movement: National Invest In Veterans Week®

As we approach the 2025 celebration of National Invest In Veterans Week®, it’s time to honor the resilience and leadership of female veteran entrepreneurs. Programs like FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ are paving the way for a future where female veterans are not just participants but leaders in the global economy.

Learn More:

• Empowering Female Veteran Entrepreneurs: Lessons from Angel Shuford

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

• What is the Salute to Veterans?

Mark Your Calendar: From March 1–7, join the global movement to empower veteran entrepreneurs. Together, we can honor their service, support their leadership, and drive meaningful change.

The Future of Leadership: FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ Take Center Stage

Empowering Female Veteran Entrepreneurs with FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠: A Spotlight During National Invest In Veterans Week®

National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) celebrates the resilience, innovation, and leadership of veteran entrepreneurs each March 1–7. Among its flagship initiatives, FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ shine as transformative programs empowering female veterans to break barriers and achieve success in entrepreneurship and leadership.

Female veterans embody qualities like resilience, leadership, and adaptability—traits honed through military service. Yet, these women face systemic challenges, from access to funding to the lack of mentorship. FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ are designed to address these issues, transforming these women into business leaders shaping the global economy.

FeMil℠ focuses on early-stage entrepreneurs, offering resources to secure funding, network effectively, and navigate the complexities of business ownership. FeMil Lead℠, on the other hand, equips female veterans with leadership skills, advanced training, and mentorship to scale their businesses and lead their industries.

During National Invest In Veterans Week®, these programs take center stage, offering events, advocacy, and networking opportunities to connect female veterans with the tools and resources they need to succeed. FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ also advocate for legislative change, pushing for policies that create equitable opportunities for female veterans.

Together, FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ represent a bold step forward in empowering female veteran entrepreneurs. They exemplify the mission of National Invest In Veterans Week®: to honor service, empower leadership, and drive economic growth.