Why "Connect with VETS" is the Event You Can’t Miss: Supporting Veteran-Owned Businesses in 2025:

As we step into 2025, the need to support veteran-owned businesses has never been more critical. Veterans bring a unique set of skills, discipline, and dedication to the business world, yet they often face significant challenges in accessing resources, funding, and networking opportunities. To bridge this gap, the Veteran-Owned Business Roundtable (VOBRT) is proud to present "Connect with Vets", a bi-monthly networking event designed to foster meaningful connections between veteran business owners, corporate partners, and supporters.

The first event of the year will take place on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM at The Melting Pot in Troy, Michigan. This gathering aims to create a thriving ecosystem where veterans can engage with like-minded individuals, showcase their businesses, and explore new growth opportunities.

Why Supporting Veteran-Owned Businesses Matters

Supporting veteran-owned businesses is not just about giving back; it is about recognizing and harnessing the immense potential these entrepreneurs bring to the economy. Veterans possess a range of valuable traits such as leadership, resilience, and problem-solving abilities that make them successful business owners. By supporting their ventures, we are investing in economic growth, job creation, and a stronger, more inclusive business community.

Economic Impact

Veteran-owned businesses contribute significantly to the economy, employing millions of people and generating billions in revenue. According to recent studies, veteran entrepreneurs own over 2.5 million businesses in the United States, accounting for nearly 9% of all small businesses. These businesses play a crucial role in local economies, driving innovation and providing employment opportunities for fellow veterans and civilians alike.

Encouraging Innovation

Veterans bring a unique perspective to business challenges, often applying their military training and strategic thinking to develop innovative solutions. From logistics and cybersecurity to healthcare and manufacturing, veteran-owned businesses are leading the way in various industries. By supporting them, we encourage further innovation and contribute to the development of cutting-edge products and services.

Community Strengthening

Supporting veteran entrepreneurs helps build stronger communities by fostering leadership, collaboration, and mutual support. Many veteran-owned businesses actively give back to their communities through mentorship programs, charitable initiatives, and workforce development opportunities.

Event Overview: What to Expect at "Connect with Vets"

The "Connect with Vets" event is designed to provide a welcoming and engaging environment for veteran business owners to network, learn, and grow. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur, a new business owner, or a corporate partner looking to engage with the veteran community, this event offers something for everyone.

Attendees can look forward to a dynamic evening filled with opportunities to network with fellow veteran entrepreneurs, corporate partners, and industry professionals. The event will include structured networking activities to encourage meaningful connections, interactive sessions focused on supplier diversity and collaboration, and opportunities for veteran business owners to showcase their products and services. Additionally, veteran entrepreneurs will share their success stories and insights on overcoming business challenges, providing valuable lessons and inspiration for others in the community.

How Corporate Partners Can Get Involved

Corporate partners play a vital role in the success of veteran-owned businesses. "Connect with Vets" provides an excellent platform for corporations to engage with veteran entrepreneurs, understand their needs, and explore opportunities for collaboration.

Benefits of Corporate Participation

• Supplier Diversity Initiatives Corporations can meet potential veteran-owned suppliers and learn how to incorporate them into their supply chains.
• Brand Alignment Demonstrating a commitment to supporting veterans aligns with corporate social responsibility goals and enhances brand reputation.
• Talent Acquisition Veterans bring valuable skills to the workforce, and networking events like this provide a great opportunity to identify potential hires.

How You Can Support Veteran-Owned Businesses

Whether you are an individual, a business, or a community organization, there are several ways to support veteran-owned businesses:

1. Shop Veteran-Owned Choose to buy products and services from veteran-owned businesses and encourage others to do the same.

2. Mentor and Advise Offer your expertise and guidance to veteran entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses.

3. Invest in Veteran Startups Consider funding veteran-owned startups and small businesses to help them scale and succeed.

4. Spread the Word Share information about veteran-owned businesses and events like "Connect with VETS" on social media and within your network.

Conclusion

As we navigate the economic landscape of 2025, supporting veteran-owned businesses should be a priority for individuals, corporations, and policymakers alike. Events like "Connect with VETS" serve as a crucial platform for veterans to showcase their talents, connect with valuable resources, and take their businesses to the next level.

Join us on February 12, 2025, at The Melting Pot in Troy, MI, and be part of a movement that empowers our nation's heroes through entrepreneurship.

RSVP Today: https://tinyurl.com/2ajzau9x

For more information, contact us at [email protected] or call 586-722-1557 ext#5.

Together, let's support and celebrate the contributions of veteran entrepreneurs in 2025 and beyond.