From the Desk of Angel Shuford: Elevating Veterans and Empowering Communities Through Vets 2.0℠ and National Invest in Veterans Week® (NIVW)

As we move into 2025, National Invest in Veterans Week® (NIVW) and Vets 2.0℠ are leading the way in reshaping how we support our veterans, particularly those transitioning to civilian life. These initiatives are built on innovation, inclusivity, and leadership, providing a global platform for veterans to thrive. With Jeff Shuford recently retired after years of transformative leadership, and under the guidance of Kevin D. Shoun, we are charting new paths for growth and empowerment, making 2025 a milestone year.

Our vision is not just about programs; it’s about revolutionizing the way we connect with veterans, amplify their voices, and empower their futures. From pioneering FeMil℠ leadership programs to hosting global events, this is a movement that celebrates veterans as changemakers and leaders.

The Evolution of National Invest in Veterans Week®

Since its inception, NIVW has grown exponentially, expanding its reach to 62 global markets and redefining what it means to honor and invest in veterans. As we celebrate milestones, let’s explore the updates that make this year truly special.

2025 Branding and Digital Enhancements

1. Dynamic Visual Identity

   • The refreshed branding captures the energy, diversity, and resilience of the veteran community. Events like International Veterans Day (March 3) and FeMil Lead℠ Day (March 6) now feature dynamic themes that reflect their unique missions, fostering deeper global recognition and engagement.

   • The redesigned NIVW website (www.investinveteransweek.com) offers streamlined access to resources, events, and storytelling, ensuring veterans worldwide can connect seamlessly.

2. Social Media Engagement

   • From Instagram to LinkedIn, our platforms are buzzing with stories, updates, and calls to action. Campaigns like #InvestInVeterans and #VetsLead2025 are driving conversations and bringing communities together.

3. Global Event Focus

   • This year, National Invest in Veterans Week® celebrates International Veterans Day and introduces FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ programs tailored for women veterans, creating spaces for recognition, empowerment, and growth.

Vets 2.0℠: Empowering the Next Generation of Veterans

Under the co-leadership of Kevin D. Shoun, a retired U.S. Army First Sergeant, and myself, Vets 2.0℠ is designed to meet the needs of younger veterans navigating the complexities of civilian life.

Core Components of Vets 2.0℠

1. Career Transition and Economic Empowerment

   • Skill Translation Workshops: Simplifying the process for veterans to translate their military expertise into civilian career opportunities.

   • Entrepreneurial Support: Programs like FeMil℠ empower veterans, particularly women, to launch and sustain successful businesses.

   • Industry Collaborations: Partnerships with global leaders in technology, renewable energy, and logistics ensure veterans have pathways to meaningful careers.

2. Mental Health and Wellness Advocacy

   • Comprehensive Support Services: Counseling, peer support groups, and wellness programs address the emotional needs of veterans.

   • Advocacy for Accessible Resources: Kevin D. Shoun’s leadership ensures mental health remains a priority across all Vets 2.0℠ initiatives.

3. Community Building and Engagement

   • Networking Events: In-person and virtual gatherings foster mentorship, collaboration, and a sense of belonging.

   • Digital Platforms: Tools like π.directory connect veterans globally, creating opportunities for knowledge-sharing and growth.

4. Leveraging Technology for Change

   • A centralized mobile app provides instant access to resources, event updates, and financial planning tools, ensuring veterans can easily navigate their transition journey.

Signature Initiatives Redefining Veteran Support

FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠

These initiatives represent our commitment to empowering female veterans.

• FeMil℠ focuses on entrepreneurial education and funding opportunities.

• FeMil Lead℠ develops leadership skills, equipping women to excel in business and community roles.

International Veterans Day (March 3)

This globally recognized day celebrates the contributions of veterans across nations, emphasizing unity and shared progress.

Localized and Global Platforms

Through state-specific platforms like LouisianaVeterans.com and FloridaVeterans.com, and country-specific platforms like GermanyVeterans.com and SouthKoreaVeterans.com, we’re creating localized resources while fostering global connections.

Kevin D. Shoun: A Visionary Leader

Kevin D. Shoun’s transformational leadership is at the heart of Vets 2.0℠. Drawing from his military experience and commitment to mental health advocacy, Kevin exemplifies the values of resilience, empathy, and innovation.

Kevin’s Contributions

• Mental Health Advocacy: Kevin champions accessible mental health resources, ensuring no veteran faces challenges alone.

• Grassroots Action: From local food drives to mentorship programs, Kevin connects veterans to resources that foster success.

• Leadership Development: Kevin’s focus on guiding veterans as community and industry leaders underpins the mission of Vets 2.0℠.

Discover more about Kevin D. Shoun’s work: Kevin D. Shoun and the Vision of Vets 2.0℠.

Economic and Social Impact: Why Vets 2.0℠ and NIVW Matter

Veteran-owned businesses contribute over $1.2 trillion annually to the U.S. economy. By scaling this impact globally, NIVW and Vets 2.0℠ are driving innovation, creating jobs, and building stronger communities.

Driving Economic Growth

• Job Creation: Collaborations with industries ensure veterans have access to fulfilling careers.

• Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Tailored programs provide veterans with the tools to succeed as business leaders.

Advocating for Policy Change

NIVW actively supports initiatives like the Complete the Mission Act of 2024, which offers tax credits, streamlined contracting processes, and mental health funding for veterans.

Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future

As we move forward, our focus remains on innovation, leadership, and community. With programs like Vets 2.0℠, FeMil℠, and International Veterans Day, we’re not just celebrating veterans—we’re investing in their future.

Get Involved

• Explore our programs and events at National Invest in Veterans Week®.

• Support mental health advocacy through Kevin D. Shoun’s initiatives.

• Advocate for systemic change by endorsing policies like the Complete the Mission Act of 2024.

Together, we can create a world where every veteran thrives as a leader, innovator, and changemaker. Let’s continue to honor their service by investing in their potential.

Angel Shuford
Vice President, National Invest in Veterans Week®

National Invest In Veterans Week® Appoints Kevin D. Shoun as Senior Advisor for Civic Leadership and Policy Development

Jacksonville, FL — December 29, 2024 — National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), a global organization dedicated to supporting veteran-owned businesses and fostering economic empowerment, announces the appointment of Kevin D. Shoun as Senior Advisor for Civic Leadership and Policy Development. This addition strengthens NIVW’s mission of advocating for veterans, building opportunities for their businesses, and amplifying their voices on a global stage.

Kevin’s career as a decorated U.S. Army veteran, entrepreneur, civic leader, and mental health advocate makes him uniquely suited to spearhead NIVW’s advocacy and leadership initiatives. His appointment also marks a meaningful moment for Angel Shuford, Vice President and CFO of NIVW, who credits Kevin as the most influential leader of her military career.

“Kevin was my First Sergeant during my time in Army aviation,” Angel shared. “His leadership inspired me to pursue education and shaped my approach to leadership today. He taught me that great leaders elevate those around them, and I’m honored to now call him a colleague at NIVW.”

Kevin D. Shoun: A Legacy of Leadership and Service

Military Career: A Leader Who Inspires Leaders

Kevin served as a First Sergeant in U.S. Army aviation, where he led teams of over 100 personnel and managed resources exceeding $2 million. His ability to inspire, mentor, and guide those under his command became a hallmark of his leadership style.

His mentorship extended beyond professional duties, as Kevin consistently encouraged his team members to pursue their education and personal growth. Angel Shuford, now a senior leader herself, credits Kevin’s encouragement as the spark that motivated her to achieve more than she thought possible.

“Kevin’s belief in me changed the course of my life,” Angel reflected. “He taught us to be resilient, to seek solutions, and to believe in our ability to overcome any challenge. That’s the kind of leader he was—and continues to be.”

Advocating for Mental Health

Kevin’s impact reaches far beyond the military. He is a tireless advocate for mental health, especially in the military community. His powerful article, “Why is Suicide So Difficult to Talk About?”, published in Aviation Digest, won the 2019 Article of the Year Award.

In this deeply personal and compelling piece, Kevin shared his experiences with loss and grief, shedding light on the stigma surrounding mental health discussions in the military. The article resonated widely, prompting meaningful conversations and driving awareness about the importance of addressing mental health openly.

“Leadership doesn’t end at tactical success,” Kevin explained. “It includes fostering an environment where people feel safe discussing challenges, including mental health. Ignoring these conversations can cost lives, and we have to do better.”

Civic Leadership: Empowering Communities

Wiregrass Food Drive: A Lifeline for Southeast Alabama

In 2020, Kevin led the Wiregrass Area Food Drive, an initiative that provided essential resources to families in need across Southeast Alabama. Partnering with the Wiregrass Area Food Bank, Kevin mobilized the community with multiple donation drop-off points and an incentive raffle featuring a Yeti Cooler Summer Fun Prize Pack.

The campaign demonstrated Kevin’s ability to inspire action and create tangible impact, even during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The food drive wasn’t just about collecting items,” Kevin said. “It was about uniting the community to help each other. Leadership is about service, whether you’re wearing a uniform or not.”

For full coverage of the Wiregrass Food Drive, read more here:

• https://www.wtvy.com/content/news/Food-Drive-Benefitting-Wiregrass-Area-Food-Bank-570961561.html

• https://www.wtvy.com/content/news/Wiregrass-Food-Drive-needs-support-571196261.html

Supporting Military Families

Kevin’s leadership extends to his real estate career, where he has assisted military families with relocation and housing needs. As a REALTOR® based in Southeast Alabama, he has navigated complex transactions with empathy and expertise, particularly during times of crisis. His ability to provide stability for military families during uncertain times has earned him widespread respect and gratitude.

A Vision for National Invest In Veterans Week®

Kevin’s appointment comes at a time of growth and transformation for NIVW. In 2024, the organization expanded to 62 global platforms, providing veterans with localized resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities. This expansion underscores NIVW’s commitment to empowering veterans at every stage of their entrepreneurial journeys.

Global Expansion Highlights

14 U.S. state-specific platforms delivering localized support for veteran entrepreneurs in states such as Florida, Pennsylvania, and Wyoming.
29 international country-specific platforms that connect veterans with opportunities in countries like Australia, Germany, and Saudi Arabia.
9 regional or organizational platforms fostering collaboration across geographic and economic boundaries, such as Scandinavia and Central America.

These platforms create a comprehensive network that ensures veterans have access to the tools they need, no matter where they are in the world.

Kevin’s Role as Senior Advisor for Civic Leadership and Policy Development

In his new role, Kevin will focus on three core pillars to advance NIVW’s mission:

Policy Advocacy
Kevin will champion policies that address the unique challenges faced by veterans, including access to funding, mental health resources, and support for military families. His firsthand experience as a veteran and community leader gives him the insight needed to drive meaningful change.

Civic Engagement
Building on his success with initiatives like the Wiregrass Food Drive, Kevin will lead community-focused programs that empower veterans and their families while fostering collaboration and resilience.

Veteran Empowerment
Through mentorship and education, Kevin will help veterans navigate the transition to civilian life, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in business and leadership roles.

A Commitment to Empowerment and Resilience

Kevin’s appointment represents more than a new leadership role—it embodies NIVW’s commitment to empowering veterans worldwide. His ability to inspire, advocate, and lead will play a critical role in shaping the organization’s future and ensuring that veterans have the resources they need to thrive.

“This opportunity is about creating lasting change,” Kevin said. “Veterans bring unmatched skills and leadership to the table, and it’s our responsibility to ensure they have the tools and opportunities to succeed.”

About National Invest In Veterans Week®

Founded by Jeff Shuford, National Invest In Veterans Week® is a global initiative dedicated to celebrating and supporting veteran-owned businesses. With 62 platforms worldwide, NIVW connects veterans to resources that facilitate their transition to civilian life and empower their entrepreneurial ventures.

For more information, visit https://www.investinveteransweek.com

Complete List of Platforms

U.S. State-Specific Platforms (14):
LouisianaVeterans.com
KansasVeterans.com
RhodeIslandVeterans.com
NewHampshireVeterans.com
DelawareVeterans.com
PennsylvaniaVeterans.com
SouthCarolinaVeterans.com
MississippiVeterans.com
WyomingVeterans.com
WestVirginiaVeterans.com
TennesseeVeterans.com
NewJerseyVeterans.com
NorthDakotaVeterans.com
FloridaVeterans.com

International Country-Specific Platforms (29):
AustraliaVeterans.com
SouthKoreaVeterans.com
GermanyVeterans.com
JapanVeterans.com
UnitedKingdomVeterans.com
ItalyVeterans.com
TurkeyVeterans.com
FranceVeterans.com
NorwayVeterans.com
SpainVeterans.com
PolandVeterans.com
BrazilVeterans.com
NetherlandsVeterans.com
BelgiumVeterans.com
PortugalVeterans.com
IcelandVeterans.com
IsraelVeterans.com
ArgentinaVeterans.com
EgyptVeterans.com
MoroccoVeterans.com
PhilippinesVeterans.com
KuwaitVeterans.com
NewZealandVeterans.com
QatarVeterans.com
SaudiArabiaVeterans.com
SingaporeVeterans.com
ThailandVeterans.com
MexicoVeterans.com
UnitedArabEmiratesVeterans.com

Regional or Organizational Platforms (9):
AlliedForcesVeterans.com
CentralAmericaVeterans.com
SouthAmericaVeterans.com
GreenlandVeterans.com
PacificIslandVeterans.com
ScandinaviaVeterans.com
PanamaVeterans.com
CommonwealthVeterans.com
EUVeterans.com

National Invest In Veterans Week® Expands to 62 Global Markets, Redefining Veteran Entrepreneurship with Innovative π Domains

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dec 28, 2024

National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) proudly announces an unprecedented expansion into 62 global markets, solidifying its position as a leader in veteran advocacy and empowerment. This transformative growth introduces π (Pledge to Invest) = Veteran Businesses℠, a groundbreaking initiative that combines technological innovation, global connectivity, and strategic partnerships to empower veteran entrepreneurs worldwide.

"Veterans possess the unique skills and leadership qualities needed to succeed as entrepreneurs. By expanding into 62 markets, we are fostering a global ecosystem where veteran-owned businesses can thrive and reach their full potential," said Angel Shuford, Vice President of National Invest In Veterans Week®.

This strategic initiative, inspired by the visionary work of Jeff Shuford, builds on years of research and collaboration to address the challenges facing veteran entrepreneurs. It leverages advanced technology, digital platforms, and a network of industry leaders to provide tools, mentorship, and funding opportunities for veterans in diverse industries.

A Visionary Expansion: 62 Markets Across the Globe

U.S. State-Specific Platforms: Supporting Local Impact in 14 States

The expansion focuses on creating resources tailored to the needs of veteran entrepreneurs in 14 U.S. states. These state-specific platforms serve as hubs for mentorship, partnerships, and funding:

• LouisianaVeterans.com

• KansasVeterans.com

• RhodeIslandVeterans.com

• NewHampshireVeterans.com

• DelawareVeterans.com

• PennsylvaniaVeterans.com

• SouthCarolinaVeterans.com

• MississippiVeterans.com

• WyomingVeterans.com

• WestVirginiaVeterans.com

• TennesseeVeterans.com

• NewJerseyVeterans.com

• NorthDakotaVeterans.com

• FloridaVeterans.com

Each platform connects local veterans with resources that cater specifically to their state’s economic and industrial landscape. These state-specific websites serve as springboards for new opportunities, ensuring that veterans have access to mentorship, collaboration, and growth strategies in their home states.

International Platforms: Opening Doors in 29 Countries

Beyond U.S. borders, the initiative extends into 29 countries, offering a global stage for veteran-owned businesses. These platforms are carefully crafted to foster relationships with international markets and industries:

• AustraliaVeterans.com

• SouthKoreaVeterans.com

• GermanyVeterans.com

• JapanVeterans.com

• UnitedKingdomVeterans.com

• ItalyVeterans.com

• TurkeyVeterans.com

• FranceVeterans.com

• NorwayVeterans.com

• SpainVeterans.com

• PolandVeterans.com

• BrazilVeterans.com

• NetherlandsVeterans.com

• BelgiumVeterans.com

• PortugalVeterans.com

• IcelandVeterans.com

• IsraelVeterans.com

• ArgentinaVeterans.com

• EgyptVeterans.com

• MoroccoVeterans.com

• PhilippinesVeterans.com

• KuwaitVeterans.com

• NewZealandVeterans.com

• QatarVeterans.com

• SaudiArabiaVeterans.com

• SingaporeVeterans.com

• ThailandVeterans.com

• MexicoVeterans.com

• UnitedArabEmiratesVeterans.com

These platforms promote international partnerships, funding opportunities, and access to global markets. They highlight the universal value of veteran-owned businesses, driving economic development and innovation across borders.

Regional and Organizational Platforms: Uniting Communities Across the Globe

In addition to country-specific markets, nine platforms unify veterans by regions and international organizations:

• AlliedForcesVeterans.com

• CentralAmericaVeterans.com

• SouthAmericaVeterans.com

• GreenlandVeterans.com

• PacificIslandVeterans.com

• ScandinaviaVeterans.com

• PanamaVeterans.com

• CommonwealthVeterans.com

• EUVeterans.com

These platforms enable collaboration between veterans in different regions, providing a network for shared growth, mentorship, and business opportunities.

The Innovation of π Domains

At the heart of this expansion are the innovative π domains, designed to provide targeted support for veteran entrepreneurs:

• www.π.digital: A hub for digital transformation and resources.

• www.π.guru: A mentorship network offering expert guidance.

• www.π.solutions: A platform for solving entrepreneurial challenges with cutting-edge solutions.

• www.π.agency: A space for fostering partnerships and corporate collaborations.

• www.π.directory: A comprehensive listing of veteran-owned businesses around the world.

These domains are more than websites—they are ecosystems of opportunity, empowering veterans with tools, knowledge, and connections that transcend traditional boundaries.

Why This Expansion Matters

Global Impact

Veteran-owned businesses in the U.S. contribute over $1.2 trillion to the economy annually. By extending support to 62 markets, National Invest In Veterans Week® is creating a global framework that amplifies this economic impact, fostering prosperity in industries ranging from technology and manufacturing to agriculture and healthcare.

A Technological Breakthrough

The π domains exemplify a cutting-edge approach to entrepreneurship, leveraging digital platforms to connect veterans with funding, mentorship, and resources. This innovation highlights the limitless potential of combining technology with purpose-driven initiatives.

Empowering Communities

This expansion is about more than economic growth—it’s about building communities where veterans are supported, celebrated, and empowered to lead. By connecting veterans across regions and industries, NIVW fosters a sense of belonging and shared success.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Veteran Entrepreneurship

With π = Veteran Businesses℠, National Invest In Veterans Week® is paving the way for a future where veteran-owned businesses are at the forefront of innovation and impact. This initiative is not just a moment—it’s a movement that redefines how the world views and supports veteran entrepreneurship.

"We invite everyone—businesses, governments, and communities—to join us in this mission," said Angel Shuford. "Together, we can create a global network that honors the contributions of veterans and ensures their continued success."

For more information about National Invest In Veterans Week® and its initiatives, visit www.investinveteransweek.com.

Media Contact:
Angel Shuford
Vice President, National Invest In Veterans Week®
Email: press@investinveteransweek.com

About National Invest In Veterans Week®

National Invest In Veterans Week® is a congressionally recognized organization dedicated to empowering veteran entrepreneurs. Since 2017, NIVW has been at the forefront of research, innovation, and advocacy, developing programs that address the unique challenges and opportunities facing veterans. Through its initiatives, NIVW fosters economic growth, community building, and a global network of support for veterans.