ALEXANDRIA, VA – In an inspiring gathering held on Thursday, Nov 13, designed to foster support and growth for veteran and military spouse entrepreneurs, Virginia Tech and the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership (AEDP) hosted a dynamic networking event at the newly established Virginia Tech Institute for Advanced Computing. The event, titled “From Service to Startups: Veteran and Military Spouse Entrepreneurship in Action,” brought together veterans, military spouses, and local entrepreneurs to share experiences, forge connections, and explore opportunities in business.
The event aimed to celebrate resilience and leadership cultivated through military service, highlighting how these qualities translate into successful entrepreneurial ventures. Participants heard firsthand narratives from founders whose journeys demonstrate that a military background—whether personal or through family—serves as a foundation for innovation and community impact.
Leadership Sets the Tone
Debbie Bradbard, Director of the Boeing Center for Veteran Transition and Military Families at Virginia Tech, opened the event by highlighting the region’s strengths. “Our mission centers around education, employment, entrepreneurship, and research. This vibrant region offers extensive support for veteran- and military spouse-owned businesses, and today’s gathering aims to unify those efforts,” she stated.
Philomena Fitzgerald, Small Business and Entrepreneurship Manager at AEDP, underscored the importance of streamlined resources. “We serve as a one-stop platform for local business support services, helping founders navigate the ecosystem here in Alexandria,” she explained.
Insights from Veteran and Military Spouse Entrepreneurs
A panel of three local entrepreneurs shared insights into how military service and family life influence their business journeys:
- Brad Halsey, CEO and Co-Founder of Building Momentum, is a Navy veteran who described how his military background shaped his approach to business—emphasizing purpose over growth. “Success isn’t just about scaling; it’s about doing meaningful work. Entrepreneurship is tough, but perseverance is designed into us,” he shared, reflecting on the unpredictable challenges of government contracting.
- Kendra Peña-Collazo, owner of Movement in Science, is a military spouse and bodywork practitioner. She highlighted adaptability as a vital entrepreneurial skill. “Being a military spouse requires constant flexibility, and that’s what entrepreneurship demands as well. Building a business that can pivot quickly has been key,” she noted. Peña-Collazo also stressed community impact, stating, “Success for me is about giving back—helping others and fostering local connections.”
- Laura Hatcher, owner of Laura Hatcher Photography, is a Navy veteran and former intelligence officer. She discussed the emotional and logistical challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life. “Losing the structure I once relied on was difficult,” she recalled. Now, her business aims to support fellow veterans through photography and mentorship, using lessons learned in diplomacy and teamwork.
Throughout the event, the importance of networking was emphasized. Attendees mingled with representatives from the Virginia Small Business Financing Authority (VSBFA), SCORE DC, and other regional resources dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship.
Closing remarks from organizers focused on community and support. Fitzgerald urged participants to capitalize on networking opportunities, stating, “This is the moment to connect, learn about available resources, and build relationships that can sustain your business.”
Bradbard echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that shared experiences strengthen a community. “Many of you are facing similar challenges; support one another, because together, you can achieve more,” she concluded.
The event served as a testament to the region’s commitment to empowering those who have served and their families, fostering a vibrant ecosystem where entrepreneurship and military service intersect to create lasting community impact.
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