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Celebrating the Impact of Military Entrepreneurs

Starting a business is no small feat For most entrepreneurs, it’s a journey full of challenges loneliness, financial strain, and the constant weight of risk. There are days when it feels like the odds are stacked against you.

One of my favorite quotes is by Zig Zigler, “There is no elevator to success, only stairs.”

Despite the fear, the uncertainty, and the sleepless nights, you keep moving forward. Why? Because you believe in what you’re building and you’re determined to make a difference And the truth is, without small business owners like you, our communities and our nation would look very different You create jobs, solve problems, and strengthen the economy in ways that often go unseen

For military entrepreneurs, this journey is even more profound. Veterans and military spouses bring unparalleled resilience and commitment to their work skills forged through years of service, sacrifice, and the pursuit of something greater than themselves. These are the very traits that make military entrepreneurs some of the most inspiring and impactful leaders in the business world today.

But here’s the thing: you are not alone.

At The Rosie Network, we believe in the power of community Over the past decade, we’ve had the privilege of standing alongside some of the most courageous and determined individuals veteran and military spouse entrepreneurs who have transformed their dreams into thriving businesses.

This year, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on 25 exceptional military entrepreneurs whose successes are not only changing their own lives but also uplifting their communities across the country.

Each of these 25 entrepreneurs has a unique story Some started their businesses to create financial stability for their families after transitioning from the military Others wanted to solve problems they encountered in their service, turning challenges into opportunities for innovation And many sought to create jobs for fellow veterans or military spouses, understanding firsthand the struggles of employment and reintegration. Regardless of their reasons, they all share one thing in common: they took a risk, and in doing so, they are making an impact that goes far beyond their bottom line.

From tech startups and consulting firms to art therapy practices and local cafes, these 25 entrepreneurs are driving real change in their communities

They’re creating jobs, providing services that matter, and showing us all that the entrepreneurial spirit is alive and thriving in the military community

What’s particularly inspiring is that these entrepreneurs don’t stop at business success they go further. Many have become mentors, reaching back to support other veterans and military spouses who are just starting their entrepreneurial journeys. They’ve built networks, shared resources, and provided guidance to ensure that others can find their paths to success Their willingness to give back is a testament to the enduring values of service and leadership that are at the core of the military experience

These 25 military entrepreneurs leaped They stared into the abyss and decided to build something beautiful, something meaningful. They are creating legacies, not just for themselves but also for their communities and future generations of military entrepreneurs. Their impact will be felt for years to come, and we are honored to share their stories with you.

We hope that as you read about their journeys, you’ll find inspiration in their resilience and courage Let their stories remind you that no matter where you are in your journey, you are not alone The road may be tough, but the rewards are immense

Here’s to the brave, the bold, and the unstoppable spirit of military entrepreneurs.

Stephanie Brown CEO and Founder, The Rosie Network

IT’S BEEN OVER A DECADE AND “WE CAN’T DO IT WITHOUT YOU!”

The Rosie Network has led the Military-Connected Entrepreneur movement by providing education and support that accelerates entrepreneurial growth and boosts military small business success.

Since 2012, our college-accredited Service2CEO program has strengthened military families by enhancing their financial stability and self-sufficiency.

Transcend Translation

DR. KENNETH GAY

Kenneth Gay Education

Jacob Mousseau

Wounded Woodworkers

Ayren Pfeifer

The Pfeifer Team

Anna Wood

Shaped By Strength by Anna Wood Fitness

COLLEEN MARCHI The Brave Knights

Kevin

Drone Quote

Spouse-ly

The Rosie Network

The Rosie Network’s mission is to build stronger military families through entrepreneurial programs and support services that empower military spouses, transitioning service members and veterans, increasing the financial stability and self-sufficiency of American families who serve

Service2ceo

SERVICE2CEO is the starting point for our military-connected entrepreneurs. Each cohort learns core business skills from concept to funding and branding to scaling Graduates develop the skills and network to launch and grow their businesses

SERVICE2CEO Alumni Program keeps graduates connected throughout the life cycle of their business. Staying connected with our graduates provides access to mentors, capital resources and ongoing business assessment opportunities.

The Program

8-modulecurriculum

Guidanceandinstructionprovidedby leadingbusinessexperts

Virtualinstruction,networking opportunitiesandco-workinghours. Mentorship&accountabilitypartners

PitchDeckDevelopment

Polishpresentationskills

AlumniNetwork

BusinessAssessment

SPRING COHORT DEADLINE IS 11/30/24

"I walked into Service2CEO wide-eye and wet behind the ears not really knowing anything about starting my business. I felt so lost at first because my business was still in the idea phase. With the help of the Subject Matter Experts, the facilitator, and brainstorming/idea sharing with the other business partners in the cohort, I walked out of the class with a full up LLC and a clear idea of where to go forward. This was the first BIG steps in getting my consulting business going and I'm grateful for the opportunity Service2CEO gave!"

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