When I first raised my right hand to serve, I couldn’t have imagined how much that moment would shape every part of my life—especially my path as an entrepreneur. Like many veterans, I thought my service story ended when I took off the uniform. What I’ve learned is that, for us, service never really ends—it just evolves.

This year, the Veteran-Owned Business Roundtable (VOBRT) celebrates its 20th Anniversary, marking two decades of educating, mentoring, and connecting veteran-owned businesses to corporate and government contracting opportunities. On Friday, November 14, 2025, we’ll gather at DTE Energy Headquarters in Detroit for our 20th Anniversary Gala, presented by Stellantis. It’s more than a celebration—it’s a salute to legacy, leadership, and the next generation of veteran entrepreneurs.

From Battlefield to Boardroom

Veterans are built to adapt, lead, and execute under pressure—skills that translate naturally into entrepreneurship. Veteran-owned businesses generate more than $1 trillion in annual revenue and employ millions nationwide, yet many still face challenges accessing capital, mentorship, and corporate connections.

That’s where VOBRT comes in. For 20 years, we’ve helped veterans bridge the gap between military service and business success through our mission to educate, mentor, and connect. The camaraderie we once felt in uniform continues in boardrooms, at networking events, and in mentorship programs that remind us we’re still stronger together.

The Power of Corporate Partnerships

The VOBRT’s greatest strength is in our partnerships with corporations that walk the talk on inclusion. Companies like Stellantis, DTE Energy, Ford, General Motors, Fifth Third Bank, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Henry Ford Health have done more than fund programs—they’ve opened doors.

These partnerships prove that inclusion isn’t just a checkbox; it’s a commitment to action. When corporations partner with veteran-owned businesses, they invest in leadership, reliability and integrity; the same values forged in service. Our 20th Anniversary Gala will celebrate these partnerships, recognizing the companies and individuals who have transformed words into meaningful impact.

Mentorship: Paying It Forward

Behind every successful veteran business is someone who offered a hand up. That’s the spirit of our Veteran Mentorship Program; connecting new entrepreneurs with those who’ve already navigated the challenges of business ownership.

I’ve seen veterans go from idea to execution, from doubt to confidence, because someone took the time to guide them. Mentorship transforms uncertainty into progress. And when one veteran succeeds, the entire community moves forward. That’s what makes our network different. We don’t compete; we collaborate. We share lessons learned, resources, and hard-earned wisdom to ensure that no veteran walks the path of entrepreneurship alone.

Access to Capital: Empowering Growth

Access to funding remains one of the biggest challenges facing veteran entrepreneurs. Many have the drive but lack the financial literacy or connections to secure capital. Through our Access to Capital Program, powered by partners like Fifth Third Bank, we help veterans strengthen their financial foundation through education, technical assistance, and introductions to lending opportunities.

It’s not about handouts-it’s about empowerment. When veterans understand how to leverage capital effectively, they build stronger, more sustainable businesses that contribute to local economies and create jobs for others.

Connecting Veterans and Corporations

Every VOBRT program leads back to one goal; connection. Our Connect with VETS Networking Events bring together veteran-owned businesses, corporate leaders, and community partners to spark relationships that lead to real results. These gatherings have turned introductions into contracts, mentorships into partnerships, and inspiration into action. The 20th Anniversary Gala will be the ultimate connection event, a night where service, leadership, and inclusion meet under one roof.

A Night of Celebration

On November 14th, guests will experience a night to remember. Crystal P., Detroit’s “Queen of Comedy,” will host the evening with her signature humor and heart, and Larry Lee & The Back in the Day Band will bring the music that defines Detroit; soulful, powerful, and timeless. But beyond the entertainment, the Gala is about celebrating the champions of veteran inclusion—those who help veteran businesses not just survive, but thrive.

Why It Matters Now

In today’s fast-changing world, the qualities veterans bring; resilience, mission focus, and adaptability are exactly what businesses need. Corporate America doesn’t just benefit from partnering with veteran-owned businesses; it grows stronger because of them.

For 20 years, VOBRT has built bridges that empower both sides. And as we look to the next 20, the mission remains clear: to ensure every veteran entrepreneur has the mentorship, capital and connections to succeed. Because when veterans win in business, communities win too.

Join Us in the Celebration

On Friday, November 14, 2025, join us at DTE Energy Headquarters in Detroit for an evening honoring two decades of service beyond the uniform. Celebrate the leaders, corporations, and communities that continue to make veteran inclusion a national priority.

🎟️ Reserve your tickets at: veteranroundtable.org/gala

Because service doesn’t stop when the uniform comes off—it simply takes new form.

Peter Vazquez, U.S. Army Veteran

Executive Director, Veteran-Owned Business Roundtable