Veteran Entrepreneurs Share Transition Strategies from Military Service to Business Success

Alexandria, VA — In honor of Veterans Day next week, veteran entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community partners will explore how the skills developed during military service can lead to business success. This dynamic panel discussion will take place Thursday, November 13, 10 am to 11:30 am, at the Virginia Tech Innovation Campus, 3625 Potomac Ave., 5th floor, in Alexandria. 

Sponsored by the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership (AEDP) and the VA Tech Boeing Center for Veteran Transition and Military Families, the program will highlight local veterans who have successfully transformed the leadership, discipline, and adaptability learned in uniform into thriving business ventures. As the nation pauses to honor veterans next week, Alexandria continues to show that gratitude can extend beyond words by helping veterans build strong foundations for success in civilian life.

The workshop is open to veteran business owners, service providers, community leaders, and anyone interested in supporting veteran entrepreneurship. Participants will gain practical advice, hear inspiring stories, and develop a clearer understanding of how to navigate the complex yet rewarding world of business ownership.

AEDP Small Business and Entrepreneurship Manager Philomena Fitzgerald stated, “This topic is always relevant to our region, but it takes on special significance this Veterans Day amidst all the federal uncertainty. We have assembled a wonderful panel of individuals who have transitioned from military life to entrepreneurship. They will share their hard-won experiences and advice with attendees.”

The panel will be moderated by Patricia Frame, founder of Strategies for Human Resources. Other speakers include Laura Hatcher, founder of Laura Hatcher Photography; Kendra Pena-Collazo, owner of Movement in Science; and Brad Halsey, CEO and founder of Building Momentum. All panelists are local entrepreneurs who have transformed lessons learned from their military experiences into the foundation for their successful businesses. They will discuss how values such as teamwork, integrity, and mission focus have shaped their approaches to business ownership and innovation.

Panelists will not only share their personal success stories but also discuss the unique challenges that military entrepreneurs encounter when launching and growing their businesses. These challenges include navigating access to capital, and finding mentors and networks that understand the transition from service member to CEO. Veterans often face specific barriers and opportunities on their journey to entrepreneurship.

The various ecosystem partners will participate in the discussion to share strategies and resources to help veterans access capital. Representatives will explain how government programs, business development organizations, and community initiatives can support veteran-owned businesses in thriving. 

During the discussion, panelists will focus on how skills developed in the military—such as strategic thinking, adaptability, and teamwork—are essential for fostering innovation and sustainable growth. These traits, shaped through military service and enhanced by entrepreneurial experience, equip veterans with a valuable toolkit for success in today’s competitive economy.

This event aims to honor veteran entrepreneurs by fostering connections and enhancing the entire veteran business ecosystem. The organizers want attendees to leave feeling inspired and armed with practical strategies to help their businesses grow.

After the panel discussion, attendees will have the opportunity to meet directly with resource leaders at a networking and resource fair. Representatives from the Virginia Small Business Financing Authority (VSBFA), the AEDP, and the Virginia Tech Boeing Center for Veteran Transition and Military Families will be present. They will provide guidance, answer questions, and connect veterans with resources to help them take their next steps.

By uniting entrepreneurs, ecosystem partners, and community advocates, this event highlights the crucial role that veterans play in the region’s economy and the collective dedication to supporting their success long after their military service ends. 

Registration for the workshop is at the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership website.