[Sterling Heights, MI, November 11, 2024] – The Veteran-Owned Business Roundtable (VOBRT) is proud to announce that it has been awarded a $25,000 grant by the Fifth Third Bank Foundation. This funding will support a second round of the VOBRT’s Veteran Access to Capital Program, which empowers veteran entrepreneurs by providing them with essential resources to grow and sustain their businesses.

The grant was presented during the grand opening of Fifth Third Bank’s new location on Hall Road in Clinton Township, Michigan, on Tuesday, October 22. Tawnya Rose, Vice President of Community Impact at Fifth Third Bank, presented the check to two veteran business owners and previous grant recipients, Donald Ross, founder of Ross Holdings, and Jarriel Brown, founder of Burst of Life. Both businesses, which are certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs), exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit and resilience of veterans in the business sector.

Congressman John James

Expressing his excitement, Congressman John James, who attended the event, noted the positive impact of Fifth Third Bank’s commitment to the local community and veterans. “It’s just so cool to see the community impact and acknowledging the veteran organizations and people who come back, not just for profession, but for purpose,” he said. “The fact that Fifth Third continues to invest in our veterans and support my business is just wonderful to see.”
CLICK HERE to watch the video

Peter Vazquez, Executive Director of the Veteran-Owned Business Roundtable, shared his gratitude for Fifth Third Bank Foundation’s continued support. “This generous grant strengthens our efforts to support veteran entrepreneurs as they navigate the challenges of accessing capital,” Vazquez said. “We are honored to continue this vital program, which has already positively impacted numerous veteran-owned businesses.”

Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel echoed the appreciation for Fifth Third’s dedication to community development and service. “This new facility is an incredible asset, not only to the bank but to the entire community,” Hackel said. “It’s inviting, it’s innovative, and it truly reflects the values of Fifth Third Bank, which goes beyond banking to make a real difference in people’s lives.”

For more information about the Veteran Access to Capital Program, visit www.veteranaccesstocapital.com.

About the Veteran-Owned Business Roundtable (VOBRT)
The Veteran-Owned Business Roundtable (VOBRT) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering veteran-owned businesses by connecting them with corporate and government contracting opportunities. Through education, mentorship, and a vast network of partners, the VOBRT helps veteran entrepreneurs thrive in today’s competitive business landscape.

Contact:
Peter Vazquez
Executive Director
Veteran-Owned Business Roundtable
Phone: 586-722-1557 ext#5
Email: pvazquez@veteranroundtable.org
Website: www.veteranroundtable.org