Florida Association of Veteran-Owned Businesses, Inc. (FAVOB)

?A New Chapter Begins – Welcome Chairman Justin R. Spears, MBA, MA! FAVOB is built on strong leadership and a shared mission—to make Florida the State of Choice for veteran-owned businesses. After nearly a decade of dedicated service, including two years as State Board Chair, Trish Murphy has completed her tenure and will continue supporting FAVOB as Immediate Past Chair, focusing on program development in 2025. Now, we’re excited to announce that Justin R. Spears has stepped into the role of FAVOB Chairman! As a U.S. Navy veteran, business owner, and former Vice Chairman, Justin has been instrumental in shaping FAVOB’s growth, member engagement, and program development. His leadership is already making an impact, including: ? Expanding membership engagement, sponsorships, and the trustee program ? Enhancing member resources through the new Membership Suite ? Spearheading strategic partnerships with organizations like Lane Technologies & Microsoft ? Launching the Miami Growth Hub, increasing FAVOB’s footprint in South Florida A Word from Our New Chairman: "I am honored to step into this role and build on the strong foundation that Trish and our leadership team have created. My mission is clear—expand opportunities, strengthen programs, and advocate for veteran-owned businesses. 2025 will be a defining year for FAVOB, and I look forward to working alongside all of you to drive real impact across Florida." A Heartfelt Thank You to Trish Murphy Trish’s leadership has transformed FAVOB—expanding its reach, launching key initiatives, and positioning us for long-term success. Her contributions will continue as she focuses on developing new programs to enhance membership value. Reflecting on Justin’s leadership, Trish shared: "The second half of 2024 and the road ahead in 2025 have required an 'All Hands on Deck' effort from the Executive Committee and Board. Throughout it all, Justin has been right there—fully engaged, dependable, and committed to moving FAVOB forward." Join us in thanking Trish for her unwavering dedication and welcoming Justin as we enter this exciting new phase for FAVOB! ?? The mission continues, and we’re just getting started. You can reach Justin at [email protected], and Trish at [email protected] #FAVOB #VeteranBusiness #NewLeadership #FloridaBusiness

??? Make Your Voice Heard! FAVOB's Capitol Connections 2025 Ready to advocate for veteran-owned businesses at the highest level? Join us in Tallahassee for a powerful two-day experience connecting directly with Florida legislators and policy makers. Your April 1-2 itinerary includes: ? FDVA Military & Veterans' Appreciation Day Reception (FREE) ? FAVOB Legislator Meet & Greet (TICKETS REQUIRED) ? Personal meetings with your hometown legislators ??BONUS: Sponsorship opportunities available for businesses wanting maximum visibility with state leaders! This is your chance to shape policies that impact veteran entrepreneurs across Florida. Don't miss this opportunity to strengthen our collective voice! ??Register now: https://loom.ly/_dsqTCU #FAVOB #VeteranAdvocacy #FloridaBusiness #CapitolConnections #VeteranOwnedBusiness

?? 7,000 LinkedIn connections strong! Thank you for following FAVOB's journey and helping us spread the mission of veteran business success. Your support here amplifies our impact for veteran entrepreneurs across Florida. Here's to growing and connecting together! #FAVOB #VeteranBusiness #LinkedInMilestone #7000Strong

? The countdown is on to eMerge Americas! You won't want to miss the premier global conference uniting the entire tech and entrepreneurial ecosystem under one roof. Join us in Miami! As a Federal, State, or Local Official, Government Innovation Employee, First Responder, Active Duty Military, or Military Veteran, you qualify for an exclusive special rate of $199 (or $999 for a VIP Pass). ?? REGISTER NOW: https://loom.ly/KpGy1ow #eMergeAmericas #MiamiTech

? Your March Business Calendar is Loading! Four power-packed events to level up your network and skills this month! From coffee connections to workshops to our special VBC collaboration, we've got veteran entrepreneurs covered across Florida. Don't miss your chance to connect with fellow veterans and grow your business. Grab your tickets now: ? Orlando Coffee & Connections: https://loom.ly/-VxV0Iw ? Greater Tampa Bay Monthly Workshop: https://loom.ly/WPPnjQY ? JAX March Madness Networking Event: https://loom.ly/odcRf2U ? Orlando FAVOB & VBC Networking Meet Up: https://loom.ly/ckeqOKI #FAVOB #VeteranBusiness #Networking #BusinessGrowth2025

Heads Up Central Florida!!! Mark it on your calendars! The Florida Association of Veteran-Owned Businesses, Inc. (FAVOB) will be hosting the: Franchise Ready Workshop – Insights, Funding & Success Strategies for Veterans on April 9th! Speakers: Joshua Compton of the Franchise Brokers Association Scot Bradley of SouthState Bank (FAVOB Trustee) James Groves of Hole in the Wall Drywall Repair (FAVOB Trustee) Crystal Bethea of C3 Wellness Spa Franchise (FAVOB Plank Owner) Anthony Busby of GREAT FLORIDA INSURANCE Lake Nona (FAVOB Trustee) Eric Corbett of Your Pie Pizza - Lee Vista (Veteran Franchise Owner) Sponsored by Veterans Florida

Well, THAT WAS A BLAST!! Miami FAVOB Growth Hub is LAUNCHED A HUGE thank you to our incredible sponsors Veterans Florida, and Florida Blue plus appreciation to Diadem Sports @TTW4G Innovations MXI Consulting and Wellness Pedicures - Medi Pedi by Jay for supporting our mission! Special thanks to JULO Strategy Global for hosting this powerful event. Justin R. Spears, MBA, MA Juliann Nichols Bridget Lake Edwin Rivera #favob. #veterans #business

Join us in Miami for eMerge Americas - a defense and dual-use technology conference + expo like no other! The premier eGov Summit, unites public and private stakeholders to drive innovation in government, defense, and national security technologies. As a Federal, State, or Local Official, Government Innovation Employee, First Responder, Active Duty Military, or Military Veteran, you qualify for an exclusive special rate of $199 (or $999 for a VIP Pass). ?????? REGISTER NOW: https://loom.ly/KpGy1ow #eMergeAmericas #MiamiTech