Angel Shuford’s Visionary Leadership: Launching "The Pledge to Invest in Veteran Businesses℠"
Angel Shuford, Vice President and CFO of National Invest In Veterans Week®, is a leader whose influence reaches far beyond her title. With a career rooted in service, innovation, and advocacy, Shuford has unveiled an ambitious initiative, "The Pledge to Invest in Veteran Businesses℠." This program is designed to redefine how communities and organizations support veteran entrepreneurs, ensuring they have the resources, tools, and opportunities necessary to succeed in today’s competitive economy.
“This isn’t just about solving a problem; it’s about building systems that create long-term, sustainable opportunities for the people who’ve given so much to their country,” Shuford explains. “Veterans don’t need charity—they need investment.”
A Life of Service and Leadership
Angel Shuford’s story begins with a foundation of service. As a decorated U.S. Army Sergeant, she honed the discipline, leadership, and resilience that now define her career in the civilian world. After leaving the military, she co-founded Tech From Vets, a groundbreaking company providing technological solutions tailored for veteran-owned businesses.
Her innovative approach earned her national recognition, including the prestigious BizTech Award from Comcast Business. Through her work with National Invest In Veterans Week®, Shuford has become a transformative figure, leveraging her military background and entrepreneurial expertise to drive systemic change.
“Leadership isn’t about commanding from the top—it’s about empowering others to succeed,” Shuford often says. “The true measure of impact is in the opportunities you create for others.”
The Birth of "The Pledge to Invest in Veteran Businesses"
At the heart of Shuford’s recent efforts is "The Pledge to Invest in Veteran Businesses℠." This initiative aims to bring together individuals, businesses, and governments to take actionable steps in supporting veteran entrepreneurs. Unlike traditional programs that often stop at recognition, Shuford’s pledge focuses on creating tangible, measurable outcomes.
The initiative is centered around three core pillars:
Community Engagement: Encouraging local governments to prioritize veteran-owned businesses in public contracts and community programs.
Private Sector Collaboration: Mobilizing corporations to mentor, invest in, and source products from veteran entrepreneurs.
Resource Accessibility: Providing veterans with access to education, funding, and networking opportunities.
“This isn’t just about checking boxes,” Shuford explains. “It’s about creating systems that empower veterans to innovate, compete, and lead.”
For more information, visit The Pledge to Invest in Veteran Businesses.
Why "The Pledge" Is Necessary Now
The challenges faced by veteran entrepreneurs are well-documented. Despite their unparalleled skills and leadership qualities, many struggle to access capital, navigate complex regulatory landscapes, and find the mentorship they need to succeed. Shuford’s pledge is designed to address these issues directly.
“Veterans have already proven their ability to lead under pressure and solve complex problems,” Shuford says. “What they need now is a level playing field—a chance to show what they can do when given the right tools.”
The pledge also addresses broader economic concerns. By investing in veteran businesses, communities can drive local economic growth, create jobs, and foster innovation.
“When veterans succeed, their communities succeed,” Shuford explains. “This is about creating ripple effects that benefit everyone.”
The Role of Technology in Empowerment
With her background in technology, Shuford has made digital tools a cornerstone of "The Pledge to Invest in Veteran Businesses." The initiative includes the development of an online platform where veterans can access resources, connect with mentors, and share their success stories.
Key features of the platform include:
Interactive Portals: Centralized hubs for funding opportunities, legal guidance, and business development tools.
AI-Driven Insights: Analytics that help identify trends and tailor resources to veterans’ unique needs.
Virtual Networking Events: Online forums that connect veterans with investors, mentors, and industry leaders.
“Technology has the power to level the playing field,” Shuford says. “It allows us to scale our efforts and reach veterans no matter where they are in the world.”
National Invest In Veterans Week®: A Foundation for Impact
Observed annually from March 1st to 7th, National Invest In Veterans Week® serves as a platform to amplify the voices of veteran entrepreneurs. Under Shuford’s leadership, the week has grown into a nationally recognized event, complete with workshops, networking sessions, and awards that celebrate veterans’ achievements.
Key initiatives during the week include:
Educational Workshops: Sessions focused on essential skills like business planning, marketing, and financial management.
Networking Opportunities: Events that connect veterans with key stakeholders in the business world.
Recognition Programs: Awards that highlight the contributions of veteran entrepreneurs to their communities and industries.
“NIVW isn’t just an event—it’s a movement,” Shuford says. “It’s about creating a culture that values and invests in veterans.”
Expanding the Reach of the Pledge
While "The Pledge to Invest in Veteran Businesses" is rooted in supporting U.S. veterans, Shuford envisions its impact extending internationally. By collaborating with allied nations, the initiative aims to create a global network of veteran entrepreneurs who can share ideas, resources, and opportunities.
“Veterans are global leaders,” Shuford explains. “Their contributions transcend borders, and our support should reflect that.”
Building Angel Shuford’s Legacy
Angel Shuford’s work is not just about addressing immediate challenges—it’s about building a legacy that inspires future generations. Through her leadership, she is setting a new standard for what it means to lead with purpose.
“Leadership isn’t about being in the spotlight—it’s about shining that spotlight on others,” Shuford says. “When you empower others to succeed, you create something that lasts.”
How to Get Involved
"The Pledge to Invest in Veteran Businesses" offers multiple ways for individuals and organizations to make a difference:
Take the Pledge: Visit The Pledge to Invest in Veteran Businesses to commit to supporting veteran entrepreneurs.
Support Veteran-Owned Businesses: Use resources like the Veteran Business Directory to find and support veteran-led enterprises.
Spread the Word: Share information about the pledge on social media using hashtags like #InvestInVeterans.
“Every action, no matter how small, contributes to the larger mission,” Shuford says. “Together, we can create a future where veterans have every opportunity to thrive.”
Conclusion: A New Era of Leadership
Angel Shuford’s leadership of "The Pledge to Invest in Veteran Businesses" represents a transformative moment in veteran advocacy. Her ability to combine strategic vision with actionable solutions has set a new standard for how communities, businesses, and governments can support veterans.
As the initiative continues to grow, Shuford’s influence will undoubtedly shape the future of veteran empowerment for generations to come. By turning gratitude into action, she is creating a world where veterans are not only celebrated but also equipped to lead.
“Investing in veterans isn’t just about recognizing their past—it’s about believing in their future,” Shuford concludes. “When veterans succeed, we all succeed.”
For more information, visit National Invest In Veterans Week®.