National Invest In Veterans Week®: Celebrating Veteran-Owned Businesses and Empowering Entrepreneurs Nationwide
National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) is more than just an annual celebration; it is a nationwide movement dedicated to honoring the contributions of veteran-owned businesses to the U.S. economy and empowering veterans and their families with tools, resources, and opportunities to succeed. Taking place every March, NIVW serves as a powerful platform for fostering entrepreneurship, innovation, and professional growth within the veteran community.
From inspiring keynote speeches by trailblazing entrepreneurs to interactive workshops and networking events, National Invest In Veterans Week® brings together a diverse lineup of speakers, industry experts, and organizations committed to investing in the success of veterans. This celebration highlights the unique skills, experiences, and resilience veterans bring to the table, ensuring they are recognized as vital contributors to our nation's economic and social fabric.
The Impact of National Invest In Veterans Week®
Why Veteran-Owned Businesses Matter
Veteran-owned businesses are a cornerstone of the U.S. economy. According to research, veterans are twice as likely as their civilian counterparts to start a business. These businesses embody the discipline, leadership, and problem-solving skills honed during military service and serve as a source of inspiration for others. Here are three critical reasons why supporting veteran-owned businesses is essential:
Reducing Veteran Unemployment: Many veteran-owned businesses prioritize hiring fellow veterans, creating meaningful employment opportunities and reducing unemployment rates in the veteran community.
Driving Economic Growth: Veteran-owned businesses are often at the forefront of innovation, introducing new products and services while driving job creation and consumer satisfaction.
Fostering Community Resilience: These businesses are deeply rooted in their communities, contributing not only to economic growth but also to social cohesion and community well-being.
A Week of Diverse and Dynamic Events
National Invest In Veterans Week® features an extensive schedule of events designed to educate, inspire, and connect attendees from all walks of life. From aspiring entrepreneurs to seasoned professionals, there is something for everyone during this impactful week.
Keynote Speeches
The keynote addresses are the highlight of NIVW, featuring some of the most respected voices in business, defense, and technology. These powerful sessions provide valuable insights, inspiring stories, and actionable advice to help attendees excel in their endeavors.
Chef Geoff Cole, CEO of Admirals Experience: A culinary entrepreneur and veteran who shares his journey from military service to building a successful hospitality brand, inspiring others to embrace their entrepreneurial potential.
Valerie Ellis, CEO of Luminary Global: A leader in emergency logistics, Ellis provides practical strategies for scaling small businesses and navigating challenges in the marketplace.
Jenn Donahue, President of JL Donahue Engineering: A decorated military veteran and engineering leader, Donahue delivers talks on overcoming imposter syndrome, building confidence, and excelling in leadership roles.
Educational Panels and Workshops
NIVW offers a variety of interactive sessions where attendees can learn from experts and gain practical skills to grow their businesses and careers. These workshops and panels cover essential topics, including:
Government Contracting Essentials:
Learn how to bid for and secure federal contracts, with insights from experts like Maresa Talbert, Founding Attorney of Talbert Law Office, APC.
Explore programs like the HUBZone and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) initiatives.
Entrepreneurship Basics:
Discover how to start, fund, and scale a business as a veteran. Sessions are often led by experienced entrepreneurs like Francis Rowe, CEO of Rowe Solutions.
Cybersecurity and Technology:
Dive into emerging trends and certifications in cybersecurity with leaders like Len Noe, Technical Evangelist at CyberArk.
Explore the latest advancements in AI, machine learning, and defense technology.
Personal Branding and Leadership:
Gain tips on building a personal brand and leveraging your military experience for career success, with guidance from thought leaders like Elizabeth Cotton, Executive Director of Black Tech Link.
Networking Opportunities
Networking is a cornerstone of NIVW. The week includes structured and informal opportunities for attendees to connect with industry leaders, peers, and potential mentors. Key networking events include:
Speed Networking Sessions: Meet with government contractors, business leaders, and policymakers in quick, high-energy interactions.
Evening Socials and Rooftop Summits: Informal gatherings where attendees can share ideas, build relationships, and unwind after a day of learning.
Prestigious Speakers and Industry Partners
One of the most compelling aspects of National Invest In Veterans Week® is the diverse and prestigious lineup of speakers and partners who are driving change in their respective fields. Here’s a look at some of the thought leaders and organizations often featured during the week:
Veteran Entrepreneurs
Jayton Harps, CEO of Zero To Necessary LLC: A cybersecurity expert who simplifies the process of obtaining security clearances and excelling in government contracting.
Chef Geoff Cole, CEO of Admirals Experience: Showcasing resilience and creativity in building a successful business.
Diversity Advocates
Elizabeth Cotton, Executive Director of Black Tech Link: Advocating for increased diversity in STEM fields and creating opportunities for underrepresented groups.
Jenn Donahue, President of JL Donahue Engineering: Inspiring women and minorities to break barriers in tech and engineering.
Industry Experts
Maresa Talbert, Talbert Law Office, APC: A legal strategist helping small businesses navigate intellectual property, compliance, and government regulations.
Francis Rowe, Rowe Solutions: Offering actionable advice on scaling businesses and winning contracts.
National and Local Collaborations
National Invest In Veterans Week® works closely with local organizations, non-profits, and veteran advocacy groups to maximize its reach and impact. Here are a few examples of collaborative efforts and events:
Million Cups Presentations: Veteran-owned businesses present their success stories at the Entrepreneur Collaborative Center in Tampa.
Learn more here.Veteran Service Organization Panel: Highlights resources available to veterans, hosted at HCC Dale Mabry Campus.
Learn more here.Suicide Prevention Resources Panel: Focused on mental health and veteran well-being, with panelists from Action Zone and Tampa Counseling & Wellness.
Learn more here.
How You Can Get Involved
National Invest In Veterans Week® is more than an event—it’s a movement to honor and empower veterans. By participating in events and supporting veteran-owned businesses, you can make a tangible difference in their lives and our economy.
Here’s how you can join the celebration:
Attend workshops and keynotes to gain valuable insights and skills.
Connect with veteran-owned businesses in your community and online.
Support initiatives like Action Zone and Black Tech Link, which champion veteran empowerment and diversity.
For more information, visit:
Let’s honor our veterans by investing in their success—this week and beyond. Together, we can create a legacy of resilience, leadership, and opportunity for generations to come.