National Invest In Veterans Week®: Purpose, Activities, and Supporting Veteran-Owned Businesses

Overview of National Invest In Veterans Week®
National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) is a congressionally recognized initiative observed annually from March 1 to March 7. Founded in 2019 by Iraq War veteran Jeff Shuford, the week is dedicated to honoring and supporting veteran entrepreneurs and highlighting their contributions to the global economy, which exceed $1.2 trillion annually. NIVW’s mission is to empower veterans through mentorship, funding opportunities, and innovative programs that create a lasting impact.

Key Events During National Invest In Veterans Week®
NIVW features dynamic events that address veterans’ needs, from entrepreneurship to mental wellness. Below is the lineup for the week:

1. Forward March Saturday (March 1):
   Veterans are encouraged to take the first steps toward entrepreneurship with tailored resources and networking opportunities.

2. International Veterans Day (March 3):
   Celebrates the contributions of veterans worldwide, fostering global recognition and unity.

3. Veteran Tech Tuesday (March 4):
   Focuses on the role of technology in veteran entrepreneurship, providing tools and workshops to modernize businesses.

4. Wellness Wednesday (March 5):
   Addresses veterans’ mental health and well-being through counseling services, peer support groups, and wellness programs.

5. FeMil Lead℠ Day (March 6):
   A day dedicated to empowering women veterans through leadership development and entrepreneurial support, ensuring inclusivity in veteran advocacy.

6. Jeff Shuford Impact Day (March 7):
   Named after NIVW’s visionary founder, this day underscores the transformative role of technology and mentorship in veteran-owned businesses.

Workshops, Mentorship, and Networking Opportunities
NIVW hosts a variety of workshops, mentorship programs, and networking events to equip veterans with the tools needed to succeed in civilian life. These activities are designed to help veterans translate their military skills into entrepreneurial success.

Ways to Support Veteran-Owned Businesses
NIVW provides numerous ways for communities to support veteran-owned businesses:

• Promote and Buy from Veteran-Owned Businesses: Explore local and global directories to discover veteran-led companies.

• Participate in Related Events: Attend workshops, panels, and expos to learn about and engage with veteran entrepreneurs.

• Spread Awareness: Use campaigns like #InvestInVeterans and #VetsLead2025 to drive conversations on social media.

Localized and Global Platforms
Through platforms like LouisianaVeterans.com and GermanyVeterans.com, NIVW offers both localized resources and international connectivity, ensuring veterans can access support wherever they are.

Why National Invest In Veterans Week® Matters
By celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit of veterans, NIVW not only honors their service but also ensures their success in civilian life. The initiative bridges the gap between military service and economic empowerment, fostering a culture of innovation, resilience, and leadership.

Get Involved
Visit the official NIVW website at National Invest In Veterans Week to explore events, access resources, and find ways to support veteran entrepreneurs.

Together, we can honor veterans by investing in their potential and building stronger communities.