National Invest in Veterans Week® vs. National Veterans Small Business Week: A Call for a More Comprehensive Approach
Veteran entrepreneurship is vital to the U.S. economy, with veteran-owned businesses contributing over $1.2 trillion annually. However, there is a stark difference in the approach, scope, and impact of National Invest in Veterans Week® (NIVW) and the Small Business Administration’s National Veterans Small Business Week (NVSBW). While both aim to support veteran entrepreneurs, NIVW goes beyond surface-level recognition by providing tailored resources, policy advocacy, and initiatives that address systemic barriers.
This article highlights the limitations of NVSBW and argues that initiatives like NIVW provide a more impactful and lasting solution for veteran entrepreneurs, especially female veterans and underserved groups.
National Veterans Small Business Week (NVSBW): Limited in Scope
NVSBW, held annually in November, focuses on celebrating veteran entrepreneurs through events hosted by the Small Business Administration (SBA) and its partners. While well-intentioned, NVSBW's approach is often criticized for being broad and lacking depth:
1. Overreliance on SBA Programs
Programs like Boots to Business and Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOCs) are valuable but offer generic guidance that doesn’t address the unique challenges faced by veterans, particularly women and minority groups.
Federal contracting training sessions are helpful but fail to simplify the complex application processes that discourage many veterans from participating.
2. Limited Advocacy and Policy Impact
NVSBW focuses on raising awareness without pushing for legislative changes that address systemic barriers, such as access to funding and streamlined government contracting.
It lacks specific initiatives to advocate for tax incentives or financial assistance tailored to veteran entrepreneurs.
3. Short-Term Engagement
NVSBW events are limited to a single week of workshops and webinars, with no ongoing support or follow-up programs to ensure sustained success for veteran entrepreneurs.
National Invest in Veterans Week® (NIVW): A Holistic and Impactful Approach
In contrast, National Invest in Veterans Week® (NIVW), held annually from March 1-7, offers a far more comprehensive and impactful approach to empowering veteran entrepreneurs. NIVW goes beyond celebrations by addressing real challenges and providing actionable solutions.
1. Targeted Initiatives for Underserved Groups
FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠: These programs cater specifically to female veterans, offering mentorship, funding education, and leadership training that address gender-specific challenges.
NIVW’s emphasis on inclusivity ensures that minority groups and rural veterans receive tailored support, bridging critical resource gaps.
2. Legislative Advocacy
NIVW actively champions legislative initiatives like the Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act, which proposes startup tax credits, low-interest loans, and federal grants to support veteran-owned businesses.
It pushes for streamlined federal contracting processes to make government opportunities more accessible to veteran entrepreneurs.
3. Year-Round Engagement
NIVW provides continuous support through its extensive network of 62 global markets, offering mentorship, training, and networking opportunities long after the week concludes.
Unlike NVSBW, NIVW focuses on building lasting relationships between veteran entrepreneurs, mentors, and industry leaders.
NVSBW vs. NIVW: A Comparative Analysis
Aspect NVSBW NIVW Scope Generalized focus on all veterans. Tailored resources for underserved groups. Duration One week of events with no follow-up. Year-round engagement through a global network. Legislative Advocacy Limited to awareness. Actively advocates for systemic policy changes. Programs Reliant on existing SBA initiatives. Unique initiatives like FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠. Global Reach U.S.-based events only. Operates in 62 global markets.
The Need for a Paradigm Shift
While NVSBW brings attention to veteran entrepreneurship, its limitations hinder long-term impact. By contrast, NIVW demonstrates a commitment to actionable change through tailored initiatives, policy advocacy, and global reach.
Why NIVW Should Lead the Charge
Focused Support: NIVW’s programs address the specific needs of female veterans, rural entrepreneurs, and underserved communities.
Legislative Impact: Its advocacy for the Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act ensures that systemic barriers are dismantled.
Global Vision: NIVW’s presence in 62 markets amplifies its impact, connecting veteran entrepreneurs to international opportunities.
A Call to Action: Elevate NIVW’s Approach
Legislators, policymakers, and veteran entrepreneurs must recognize the broader impact of National Invest in Veterans Week® compared to NVSBW. To truly empower veteran-owned businesses, we need a shift in focus toward initiatives that provide lasting, systemic solutions.
Support National Invest in Veterans Week®:
Explore programs like FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ to see how tailored support can transform lives.
Advocate for the Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act, which addresses critical funding, mentorship, and contracting challenges.
Visit National Invest in Veterans Week® to learn more about how you can get involved and support veteran entrepreneurs.
Together, we can ensure that veteran-owned businesses not only survive but thrive, driving innovation, economic growth, and community development for generations to come.
