National Veterans Small Business Week holds a special meaning. Celebrating its 10th year, this is a time to not only reflect but celebrate the unique contributions of entrepreneurs, including through Operation Entrepreneur (OE) 2024. Through the power of their collective experiences, whether that is resilience, camaraderie, or pure drive, it is through these moments that entrepreneurs continue to make an impact on small business.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and its partners provide vital resources including training programs, mentorship, and financial assistance that empowers entrepreneurs to thrive. Whether you are just starting your business journey or are looking to scale, organizations like Business Impact NW, in collaboration with the SBA, offer access to essential tools, resources, and a network of fellow business owners, to support you and help you thrive.
Navigating the journey from small business owner to successful entrepreneur is challenging. Recently, many had the opportunity to attend an Operation Entrepreneur event, hosted in part by the AK VBOC, which left participants feeling empowered and well-prepared to take business aspirations to the next level. Entrepreneurs found the insights shared by industry experts like Terry Homburg, of APEX Accelerators and the advice and resilience from seasoned business owners, invaluable.
Capability Statements With APEX
Terry Homburg from APEX led an insightful session on capability statements for federal contracts on day one of Operation Entrepreneur 2024. This topic, often intimidating for new entrepreneurs, was broken down into clear and easy to understand steps. Terry went over coding systems and abbreviations, drafting your statement, and even provided a useful template to assist in the process. He highlighted the importance of understanding contracting needs while staying patient and building lasting relationships within the federal contracting world. Going into detail with the core competencies, experience, company data, and more, Terry explained strategically how to draft a proper capability statement and expectations for turnaround. For individuals who may be new to this space, Terry’s guidance showed us that federal work is achievable and can offer stable, rewarding opportunities if willing to put in the effort.
Roundtable With Melissa Welsh: Building Confidence and Pushing Through “No’s”
The event also featured a powerful roundtable discussion with business leaders from ASCI Logistics, JBN Beef Jerky, and Operation Red Dot. They shared how their journeys weren’t easy, emphasizing that the path to success is rarely linear and often requires the courage to face rejection. Day 2 of Operation Entrepreneur’s message was clear: don’t let hearing “no” stop you.
A significant takeaway from this discussion was the importance of asking for help and connecting with resource partners. Each panelist shared how organizations like Business Impact NW, SCORE, and the SBA were instrumental in their journeys, providing mentorship and guidance that helped them overcome obstacles. They encouraged those attending Operation Entrepreneur 2024 not to hesitate to reach out to resources for help or tap into programs designed to uplift and support small business owners.
Another valuable lesson was the need for a solid business plan and being prepared for challenges. Each business owner stressed the importance of setting a clear vision while staying adaptable. For entrepreneurs, who face unique challenges, this advice was a reminder that a well-thought-out plan can make all the difference in helping business owners push forward through any obstacle.
Digital Marketing Focus with Jeff Thungc
Jeff Thungc, Digital Solutions Strategist with JLT Web Design & Digital Marketing, was the featured speaker for Day 3 of Operation Entrepreneur, where he led an engaging session on Digital Marketing. Drawing from over 14 years of digital media and IT leadership experience, Jeff provided actionable insights into enhancing a company’s online presence and crafting effective digital marketing strategies. With his PMP certification and a track record of leading JLT Web Design to become one of Kent, Washington’s top-rated marketing firms, Jeff shared proven methods to help entrepreneurs drive their businesses forward in a digital-first world.
Spotlight on AK VBOC: A Vital Resource for Entrepreneurs
The AK VBOC, a key host for Operation Entrepreneur, provided an amazing space for attendees to network, exchange ideas, and gain vital insights. On Tuesday, November 12, an in-person networking event was held in Anchorage, AK at the BP Energy Center, where multiple individuals showed up, including the Alaskan Team and Susan Perreault, Senior Vice President of Programs, for Business Impact NW. Since its ribbon-cutting ceremony last year, the AK VBOC has been a powerful ally for entrepreneurs who are building or interested in starting their businesses.
Over the past year, the AK VBOC has:
- Served over 100 clients.
- Hosted over 80 instructional courses covering business planning, financial literacy, and contracting.
- Engaged in 16 impactful outreach events, helping to build a supportive community for entrepreneurs across Alaska.
The AK VBOC’s commitment to fostering growth and connection with all small businesses, was clear throughout Operation Entrepreneur 2024, and their networking event allowed us to connect deeply with others on similar paths. The AK VBOC team’s dedication to all entrepreneurs reminds us of the strong support available, making the journey less daunting.
Moving Forward with Confidence and Resilience
Attending this event gave participants vital resource guidance, inspiration, and connections to pursue business goals with renewed confidence. During the roundtable discussion of Operation Entrepreneur 2024, the panelists shared personal stories of overcoming some of the biggest challenges in their journeys—barriers to which every business owner can relate, from securing financing and building a team to overcoming negative feedback. Hearing how they pushed through these setbacks while relying on support like business mentors, business coaching, and actively seeking out continued learning and guidance was a powerful reminder that obstacles don’t have to stop us; they can propel us forward.
The panelists’ resilience and willingness to ask for help showed that even through financial or emotional setbacks, it is all a part of the process. They emphasized the importance of keeping a positive perspective but, most importantly, using any challenges as fuel to drive toward success.
Individuals left the event feeling inspired and supported, knowing there is a strong network of partners and resources to help the community of entrepreneurs every step of the way, and it is a reminder that we are not alone on our entrepreneurial paths. Organizations like Business Impact NW, hosting the VBOC programs, APEX Accelerators, the SBA, and SCORE empower entrepreneurs from start-ups to scaling their businesses, preparing them to pursue dreams with resilience and confidence.
Are you a Veteran Entrepreneur interested in learning more about the VBOC? If so, click here.
Are you just starting your entrepreneurial journey, and are you interested in finding out more? Click here.
About the author
Emma Seymour is a Communications and Public Relations professional specializing in storytelling, relationship building, and content development. A military spouse and former small business owner, she advocates for veterans, transitioning service members, and their spouses, and has delivered keynote speeches on workforce development, military programs, and childhood trauma.