Veterans Driving U.S. Economic Strength: National Invest In Veterans Week® Aligns with Growth and Opportunity
As 2024 drew to a close, the American economy once again showcased its resilience. The U.S. added 256,000 jobs in December, reducing the unemployment rate to 4.1%, according to the Labor Department. This remarkable performance—despite high interest rates and inflationary pressures—sets the stage for a robust 2025 under the incoming Trump administration.
With a renewed focus on economic empowerment, domestic manufacturing, and reduced regulations, the Republican agenda aligns seamlessly with the ongoing mission of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW). Under the leadership of Jeff Shuford, co-founder, and Angel Shuford, Vice President and CFO, NIVW is poised to elevate veteran entrepreneurs as key drivers of economic growth and innovation.
December’s Job Market: A Strong Finish to 2024
The addition of 2.2 million jobs throughout 2024, averaging 186,000 per month, solidifies the strength of the U.S. labor market. While this marked a slight slowdown from the 3 million jobs in 2023, it exceeded expectations. Key sectors driving December’s growth included:
Health Care: +46,000 jobs
Retail: +43,000 jobs
Leisure and Hospitality: +43,000 jobs
Government: +33,000 jobs
Economists credit this growth to a combination of strong consumer spending and business confidence. Julia Pollak, Chief Economist at ZipRecruiter, remarked,
"The job gains reflect improved employer confidence and a brighter consumer outlook."
Veterans as Economic Catalysts
Veterans represent a cornerstone of the American economy, bringing unparalleled leadership, discipline, and innovation to the workforce and business landscape. Veteran-owned businesses generate over $1.4 trillion annually and employ millions of workers.
Jeff Shuford, co-founder of NIVW, explained:
"Veterans embody the values that make America exceptional—hard work, resilience, and innovation. Our mission is to give them the tools to succeed in business and beyond."
Through National Invest In Veterans Week®, veteran entrepreneurs receive the resources and support they need to thrive. This includes:
Education: Offering training on business management, marketing, and financial strategy.
Mentorship: Connecting veterans with successful industry leaders.
Advocacy: Promoting policies that reduce barriers and create opportunities for veteran-owned businesses.
A Republican Agenda for Growth
The Trump administration’s focus on reducing taxes, cutting red tape, and strengthening domestic industries aligns perfectly with the goals of veteran empowerment. These policies aim to create a business environment where entrepreneurs, particularly veterans, can thrive.
Angel Shuford, Vice President of NIVW, emphasized:
"Veterans have always been at the forefront of American progress. With the right policies, we can unleash their full potential in the economy."
Republican-led initiatives like tax cuts and infrastructure investment will further strengthen the environment for business expansion, creating new opportunities for veterans to lead in their communities.
Global Opportunities for Veterans
Recognizing the competitive edge veterans bring to global markets, NIVW has aligned with VetsGoGlobal. This U.S. Commercial Service initiative provides veteran-owned businesses with the tools to explore international trade, including:
Market Research: Identifying global demand and trends.
Business Matchmaking: Connecting veterans with vetted international partners.
Trade Counseling: Offering strategies to navigate export logistics and compliance.
By aligning with VetsGoGlobal, NIVW ensures that veterans have the resources to expand their businesses internationally, driving economic growth while representing American excellence on the global stage.
Jeff Shuford stated:
"Veterans have the skills and determination to succeed not just locally, but globally. By equipping them for international trade, we’re securing America’s economic leadership."
Success Stories: Veterans Leading the Way
The impact of veteran entrepreneurship is evident in success stories from companies thriving both domestically and internationally:
IR Tools: A veteran-owned manufacturer of infrared identification products, now serving over 20 countries.
Universal Spartan: A service-disabled, veteran-owned business providing tactical equipment to global defense markets.
NVTS: Expanded internationally by securing a contract with the Greek Coast Guard through export education.
These businesses illustrate the transformative potential of veterans in shaping America’s economic future.
The Role of Policy in Strengthening Growth
While wage growth slowed to 3.9% in 2024, inflation dropped significantly from 9.1% in June 2022 to 2.7% in November 2024, thanks in part to Federal Reserve measures and strong job market performance.
The Trump administration’s policy priorities—lower taxes, reduced regulations, and enhanced trade agreements—are expected to sustain this positive momentum. Michael Reid, economist at RBC Capital Markets, noted:
"The strong labor market provides a foundation for advancing Republican economic goals while ensuring broad-based prosperity."
Looking Ahead: Veterans and the Nation’s Future
As the economy evolves, the role of veterans in driving growth will only become more critical. Programs like National Invest In Veterans Week® and partnerships with global initiatives like VetsGoGlobal will equip veterans to navigate these changes successfully.
Angel Shuford shared the vision for 2025:
"We’re building an ecosystem where veterans can thrive, from local businesses to global markets. Their success is America’s success."
With the Trump administration committed to policies that support business innovation and reduce barriers, veteran entrepreneurs are well-positioned to lead the next wave of economic progress.
Conclusion: Building a Legacy of Leadership
The U.S. economy’s strength is a testament to the resilience of its workforce, and veterans are at the heart of this success. Initiatives like National Invest In Veterans Week® reflect the best of American values: hard work, self-reliance, and innovation.
As the Trump administration takes office, the alignment of NIVW with programs like VetsGoGlobal ensures that veterans have every opportunity to lead in an interconnected, competitive world.
For more information, visit National Invest In Veterans Week and VetsGoGlobal. Together, these initiatives represent a bold vision for empowering veterans and securing America’s economic future.
