National Invest in Veterans Week: Honoring Service, Empowering Entrepreneurship, and Building a Stronger Economy

What is National Invest in Veterans Week?

National Invest in Veterans Week (NIVW), observed annually from March 1-7, is a week-long event dedicated to honoring veteran-owned businesses and empowering veteran entrepreneurs. Founded in 2019 by Drayton Florence, a former NFL player, and Jeff Shuford, an Iraq War veteran and nationally syndicated columnist, NIVW focuses on educating the public about the value of investing in veteran-owned businesses.

This week celebrates veterans who have transitioned from military service into entrepreneurship, emphasizing their economic contributions and leadership. With veterans being twice as likely to start businesses compared to non-veterans, the event highlights their resilience, creativity, and commitment to community and economic growth.

Visit the official NIVW website for more details: National Invest in Veterans Week.

Why is investing in veteran-owned businesses important?

Veteran-owned businesses are pillars of economic and social vitality. Here are some key reasons to invest in them:

1. Economic Impact:
   Veteran-owned businesses contribute more than $1.2 trillion annually to the U.S. economy. Their innovative approaches often lead to groundbreaking solutions across diverse industries, including healthcare, technology, and logistics.

2. Job Creation:
   These businesses employ millions, with a significant number of positions reserved for fellow veterans. This helps reduce veteran unemployment rates and fosters a supportive community.

3. Exceptional Leadership:
   Veterans bring unique skills such as strategic thinking, discipline, and adaptability, which are invaluable in running successful businesses.

4. Community Support:
   Supporting veteran-owned businesses strengthens local economies, builds networks, and ensures that the contributions of those who served are recognized and sustained.

For an in-depth discussion, check out this article: Honoring Service, Empowering Entrepreneurship, and Building a Stronger Economy.

How to Participate in National Invest in Veterans Week

Participation in NIVW offers individuals and organizations various opportunities to support veteran entrepreneurs:

1. Attend Events:
   Events like Defense Week feature panels, workshops, and networking opportunities with industry leaders like Chef Geoff Cole (CEO, Admirals Experience), Elizabeth Cotton (Executive Director, Black Tech Link), and Julius Wiseman (CEO, Footprints on the Moon). These events highlight topics ranging from cybersecurity to business innovation.

   Visit Defense Week Schedule for event details.

2. Support Veteran-Owned Businesses:
   Search for and shop from businesses owned by veterans. Local initiatives like Action Zone in Tampa spotlight these businesses and provide resources for growth.

3. Advocate for Policy Change:
   Engage with legislators to support policies like the Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act, which proposes tax credits, grants, and streamlined government contracting for veteran-owned businesses.

4. Volunteer or Donate:
   Organizations like Bunker Labs and InLab provide mentorship and resources for veterans transitioning into entrepreneurship.

For more tips, visit Invest in Veterans Magazine.

Key Events and Highlights from National Invest in Veterans Week

NIVW hosts a variety of impactful events to honor veterans and promote entrepreneurship:

1. Douglas County Proclamation (Oregon):
   Commissioners Tim Freeman, Chris Boice, and Tom Kress recognized local businesses and individuals contributing to veteran welfare, including A&M Transport and Source One Serenity.

   Learn more: Douglas County Proclamation.

2. Defense Week Keynote Speakers:

   • Valerie Ellis, CEO of Luminary Global, emphasized resilience in leadership.

   • Dr. Elton Harps from Homeland Security shared insights on PTSD and mental health in the veteran community.

   • Len Noe, Technical Evangelist at CyberArk, discussed cybersecurity innovations.

3. Action Zone Events (Tampa):
   From panels on suicide prevention to military spouse networking, these events connect veterans with resources for business growth and mental health support.

4. Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act Advocacy:
   This act includes initiatives like:

   • $15,000 startup tax credits.

   • $300 million in grants for public-private partnerships.

   • Simplified federal contracting for veteran-owned businesses.

Read more here: Celebrating Veteran-Owned Businesses Nationwide.

Conclusion

National Invest in Veterans Week is a call to action for individuals, businesses, and policymakers to honor and invest in those who served. Through events, legislation, and community initiatives, this week emphasizes the profound impact of veteran entrepreneurs on the economy and society.

Join the movement to celebrate, support, and empower veteran-owned businesses. Learn more and get involved:

• Invest in Veterans Week.

• National Invest in Veterans Week Magazine.