Black-tie event in Detroit to honor veteran entrepreneurs and supporters

Detroit, MI, July 28, 2025 – The Veteran Owned Business Roundtable (VOBRT) announces the 20th Anniversary Gala, presented by Stellantis, at DTE Energy Headquarters. This event celebrates two decades of empowering veteran entrepreneurs and will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. The gala aims to unite corporate leaders, veteran-owned businesses, and community champions to further VOBRT’s mission of educating, mentoring, and connecting veterans to corporate and government contracting opportunities.

“Veteran-owned suppliers embody the innovation, agility, and sense of duty our industry needs,” said Bruno Olvera, Chairman of VOBRT and Head of North America Diversity Supplier Development at Stellantis. “Being the presenting sponsor allows Stellantis to highlight the economic impact veterans create and support VOBRT in expanding that influence.”

“For 20 years, VOBRT has been a catalyst for economic mobility among veterans,” stated Roderick Rickman, President of the VOBRT Board of Directors. “This gala celebrates that legacy and raises critical funds to enhance programs that uplift veteran entrepreneurs and their families.”

“DTE is proud to collaborate with veteran-owned suppliers who have served their country,” said Jaspreet Singh, Vice President, Corporate Services, DTE. “Hosting this event reinforces our commitment to supporting VOBRT and building an inclusive supply chain.”

Evening Highlights:

  • Master of Ceremonies: Crystal P., nationally recognized comedian and entertainer
  • Live Music: Larry Lee & The Back In The Day Band, featuring musicians from The Temptations and The Four Tops
  • Heroes of Inclusion Awards: Honoring corporations and community partners advancing veteran opportunities
  • Keynote & Fireside Chat: Insights on veteran entrepreneurship and procurement
  • Networking Reception & Silent Auction: Michigan cuisine, premium open bar, and auction items benefiting VOBRT programs
  • Ticketing & Sponsorships: Individual tickets $199–$249; sponsorship packages from Bronze ($1,500) to Diamond tiers available

The gala aims to inspire and empower veteran entrepreneurs, while raising funds to support VOBRT’s impactful programs.

Left to Right: Dave Christie, CMAC Transportation, George Barnes, Heritage Vision Plans, Ronald Ross, Ross Business Development, Warren Underwood, Infinity Group International, Joseph Anderson, TAG Holdings, LLC, Roderick Rickman, Rickman Enterprise Group (VOBRT President), John Henderson, AEL-Span, LLC, Bruno Olvera, Director – Head of North America Diversity Supplier Development Stellantis (VOBRT Chairman), Donald Ross, Ross Expedited Transport, LLC, Peter Vazquez, Brand Echo Media Solutions (VOBRT Executive Director).