The EDGE Conference: Veteran Entrepreneurship

Last week, I had the privilege of attending the EDGE conference, a gathering that brought together the brightest minds from the Vet100 list—a prestigious compilation of the fastest-growing veteran-owned businesses in the United States. This experience took me back to my first Inc500 conference in 1997, a pivotal moment that ignited my ambition to one day join the ranks of such esteemed entrepreneurs.

The Inc500 conference was a celebration of entrepreneurial success, marked by high energy, mission-driven enthusiasm, and a complex array of keynote speakers and breakout sessions. The original founders and staff of Inc magazine led the event with a palpable passion that left a lasting impression on me as a young entrepreneur.

Over the years, as I attended more Inc500 conferences, I witnessed subtle changes following the transition of ownership from the original founders. Although the conference remained a favorite, the shift in enthusiasm and decorum was noticeable. Yet, the spirit of celebrating fellow entrepreneurs' success never waned. IVMF EDGE was like 97. It was so enthusiac and the purpose was so contagious,,, the comradery unparalleled. I hope I will be invited back.

The Vet100 list, a subset of the broader Inc. 5000 list, is a testament to the remarkable achievements of veteran entrepreneurs. With rankings that speak volumes about their growth and impact, these businesses are not just thriving; they are leading the way in innovation and economic contribution. The Vet100 list, created in collaboration between Inc. Magazine and the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) at Syracuse University, is more than an accolade—it is a narrative of empowerment and recognition for those who have served and are now pioneering in the business realm.

The EDGE conference, hosted by the IVMF, mirrored the core values of the institute and was reflected by the event sponsors. It was an immersive three-day event, running from dawn till dusk, followed by networking sessions that felt nothing short of mandatory. This was not merely a celebration of success; it was a commitment to the military community, a pledge to nurture its entrepreneurs and bolster the growth of veteran-owned businesses.

The conference was truly informative, designed to facilitate learning and, more importantly, to foster connections among veteran entrepreneurs and sponsors. The IVMF staff's dedication to creating an event that was both educational and collaborative was evident, and the sense of purpose resonated throughout the conference.

As I reflect on my experiences at both the Inc500 and the EDGE conferences, I am struck by the similarities in their mission-focused approach and the unwavering support for entrepreneurs. However, the EDGE conference stood out with its profound sense of purpose—a commitment to the military community that went beyond mere celebration.

The Vet100 list and the EDGE conference are clear indicators of the potential and impact of veteran entrepreneurs. They highlight the skills, discipline, and leadership that veterans bring to their businesses, contributing to a diverse and robust economy. As someone who has achieved the goal of being on the Inc500 list, my new aspiration is to support companies in reaching the Vet100 list, recognizing the unique value and perspective that veteran entrepreneurs offer.

The EDGE conference was an unparalleled experience, a gathering that not only honored the success of veteran-owned businesses but also reinforced a collective dedication to their continued growth and excellence. It was, without a doubt, the best business conference I've attended, rivaling even my first Inc500 conference. It's an event that every entrepreneur, veteran or not, should aspire to be part of, for it is where purpose meets progress, and where the community of veteran entrepreneurs shines brightest. #VET100 #IVMF #Veterans