Each year, Ask the Strategist recognizes organizations committed to working with and advancing small businesses owned by U.S. Veterans. Today, we are spotlighting two organizations that have previously appeared on the list because they have gone above and beyond in 2019, redoubling efforts to provide practical resources and innovative programming for Veterans: The Southwest Veterans Business Resource Center (first included in 2018) and VetsInTech (originally spotlighted in 2013).
Southwest Veterans Business Resource Center
What they do and why they matter
Host of the annual Veteran and Small Business Summit, the Southwest Veterans Business Resource Center (SWVBRC) has an emphasis on connecting Veterans to the communities in which they live and serve. Seeking to raise community awareness about best practices for helping Veterans, SWVBRC provides entrepreneurship and vocational training, and reintegration support for military members transitioning into civilian life. About an hour outside of Los Angeles, the SWBRC was founded by Albert Renteria, who is a Veteran.
The Veteran and Small Business Summit, now in its 8th year, is a free one-day conference held in Moreno Valley, CA to
Location: Perris, CA
Founded: 2008
Get in touch: https://wherecommunitiesserveveterans.org
VetsInTech
What they do and why they matter
With a focus on the 3 Es – Education, Entrepreneurship and Employment – VetsInTech connects active and retired military members with opportunities in technology. Based in San Francisco, the organization has several local chapters across the United States, including Arizona, North Carolina, New York, and Texas. VetsInTech hosts several programs each year, including coding sessions, career workshops, networking events, and career fairs.
In addition to training and mentoring programs, VetsInTech posts technology jobs on its website for active and retired military service members.
High profile sponsors and partners include Comcast, LinkedIn, and Salesforce and Amazon. Founded by Katherine Webster, its Board of Directors include Craig Newmark, founder of Craigslist and Kevin Heneghan, Senior Counsel at AIRBNB.
Location: San Francisco, CA
Founded: 2010
Get in touch: https://vetsintech.co
Do you have a recommendation for an organization for us to spotlight next Veterans Day? Contact us to submit your nominee.
About the Author: Kesi Stribling
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