National Veterans Small Business Week
National Veterans Small Business Week is a dedicated time to recognize and celebrate the contributions of veterans, National Guard and Reserve members, service members, and military spouse entrepreneurs and their impact on the business world.
There are nearly two million Veteran-owned small businesses in the United States.
“Businesses owned by veterans play a pivotal role in the U.S. economy, contributing over $1.14 trillion to the nation’s annual revenue and receipts,” says Glenn Werner, Vice President of Investments at David Lerner Associates, Inc.
When is National Veterans Small Business Week 2023?
National Veterans Small Business Week (NVSBW) is typically celebrated during the first week of November. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), through Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman, announced on August 24, 2023, that this year’s 10th annual NVBSW will be celebrated from October 30 – November 3, 2023.
History of National Veterans Small Business Week
National Veterans Small Business Week has a rich history dating back to its establishment by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
This annual event was created to highlight the achievements and entrepreneurial spirit of veterans who have transitioned from serving in the military to becoming successful business owners.
The SBA designated National Veterans Small Business Week as an occasion to spotlight veterans, address the challenges they encounter, and explore avenues for supporting their small enterprises.
During this week, the SBA shares a variety of blog topics, engages in social media dialogues with industry experts and offers resources to facilitate veterans’ access to the essential tools for launching and sustaining their startups.
Under the Biden administration, a significant emphasis has been placed on enhancing assistance for service members, veterans, and their families. In October 2022, the SBA unveiled increased funding opportunities for community-based organizations. These funds are aimed at fostering tailored, high-impact initiatives and broadening the availability of SBA resources. These efforts are geared towards bolstering support for veteran entrepreneurs.
Who Gets Involved in National Veterans Small Business Week?
This special week is an opportunity for everyone to show their support for veteran entrepreneurs and their businesses.
National Veterans Small Business Week brings together a diverse group of participants:
- Veteran Entrepreneurs: The heart and soul of this celebration are the veteran business owners who share their stories, experiences, and expertise. They serve as an inspiration to others considering entrepreneurship after military service.
- Government Agencies: The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) takes a lead role in organizing and promoting National Veterans Small Business Week. It offers resources, workshops, and support for veteran-owned businesses.
- Business Organizations: Various business associations and chambers of commerce across the country actively participate by hosting events, workshops, and networking opportunities for veteran entrepreneurs.
- Community Members: The local community plays a crucial role in supporting veteran-owned businesses. They can do this by attending events, shopping at veteran-owned stores, and spreading awareness about these businesses.
National Veterans Small Business Week Participation Ideas
Here are some meaningful ways to participate and show support during National Veterans Small Business Week:
- Attend Veteran-Owned Business Showcases: Look for National Veterans Small Business Week events or online showcases featuring veteran-owned businesses. It’s an excellent opportunity to discover unique products and services while supporting veterans in business.
- Connect with Veteran Entrepreneurs: Reach out to veteran entrepreneurs in your community or professional network. Offer mentorship, partnership opportunities, or collaborate on projects.
- Promote Veteran-Owned Businesses: If you run a business, consider sourcing products or services from veteran-owned companies. Highlight their stories and contributions in your marketing materials to raise awareness.
- Share Veteran Success Stories: Use your platform, whether it’s a blog, social media, or a local newsletter, to share inspiring success stories of veteran entrepreneurs. Help amplify their voices and experiences.
- Attend Workshops and Seminars: Seek out workshops and seminars focused on veteran entrepreneurship. These events often provide valuable insights, resources, and networking opportunities.
- Join the conversation on social media by giving the Office of Veterans Business Development a follow on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter using the hashtag #VetBiz.
Conclusion
National Veterans Small Business Week is not just a time of celebration; it’s an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of veterans who have served our nation and are now making their mark in the business world.
Join us at David Lerner Associates in honoring and supporting these remarkable individuals and their enterprises during National Veterans Small Business Week.
Material contained in this article is provided for information purposes only and is not intended to be used in connection with the evaluation of any investments offered by David Lerner Associates, Inc. These materials are provided for general information and educational purposes based upon publicly available information from sources believed to be reliable– we cannot assure the accuracy or completeness of these materials. The information in these materials may change at any time and without notice.