Advocating for Veteran Entrepreneurship: VIB Network's Initiative at Capitol Hill

On December 10, 2025, the Veterans In Business (VIB) Network, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veteran-owned businesses, actively participated in a critical hearing held by the House Committee on Small Business. The event, titled "From Service to Startup: Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurs," aimed to emphasize the essential role that veterans play in the business landscape and the unique challenges they face as entrepreneurs.

Rebecca Aguilera-Gardiner, the CEO of the VIB Network, represented over 3,600 veteran business owners during the hearing. In her opening statement, Aguilera-Gardiner expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to speak in front of lawmakers, including Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez from New York. She stated, "I feel honored and humbled to represent the 3,600 veteran business owners in our network. We are thankful to the lawmakers who invited us to our nation's capital. When a veteran succeeds in business, they not only hire other veterans. They reinvest in their local communities and strengthen the national supply chain."

The hearing focused on the significance of veteran entrepreneurs in the current economy and aimed to identify key opportunities to support their businesses. Lawmakers were keen to understand how veteran entrepreneurs utilize programs from the Small Business Administration (SBA) for certifications and access to capital, which are essential elements for the growth and sustainability of their enterprises.

As of today, there are nearly two million veteran-owned businesses across the United States, employing more than five million people and generating approximately $1 trillion in annual revenue. Aguilera-Gardiner's testimony highlighted that the success of veteran-owned businesses not only contributes to the economy but also fosters community development and job creation.

The VIB Network plays a crucial role in the business ecosystem by facilitating connections between veteran businesses and corporations, government agencies, and prime contractors seeking to establish partnerships. Through such collaborations, veteran entrepreneurs can access contracting opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.

During the hearing, Aguilera-Gardiner pointed out the potential growth that could be achieved if legislation was implemented to further support veteran-owned businesses, including easier access to financing and improved training programs tailored specifically for veterans transitioning into entrepreneurship.

The importance of this topic cannot be overstated. Veteran entrepreneurs often face unique challenges, including navigating complex bureaucratic processes and accessing resources that can help them achieve their business goals. The VIB Network's advocacy for the veteran entrepreneurial community underscores the necessity of providing tailored support to these business owners who have already shown resilience in serving their country.

To revisit the hearing and engage with the discussions, interested parties can view the session on the House Committee on Small Business' YouTube channel. Such transparency is vital for cultivating a broader understanding of the issues veteran entrepreneurs face and the solutions that can minimize these obstacles.

In summary, the participation of the VIB Network in this important hearing represents a significant step towards enhancing the visibility and support for veteran entrepreneurship in the legislative arena. By galvanizing support from lawmakers and raising awareness about the contributions of veteran-owned businesses, the VIB Network is championing a cause that benefits not just veterans, but also the economy as a whole. The path to success for veterans in business is one that can be paved with robust policies and community engagement, ensuring that they thrive in their post-service careers.