A Call for National Recognition: Proclaiming National Invest In Veterans Week®

Lonnell McCall II Sr. Spokesperson

On behalf of all military dependents, veteran families, and the millions of Americans who understand the sacrifices of service, I am honored to call for official proclamations and presidential recognition of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW)—a movement dedicated to honoring, supporting, and uplifting veteran entrepreneurs.

Each year, from March 1st to 7th, NIVW serves as a platform to celebrate the economic and social contributions of veterans who have transitioned from military service to business ownership. Their determination, resilience, and leadership continue to strengthen our nation’s economy, providing jobs, innovation, and lasting impact. Yet, their achievements remain under-recognized on the national level.

In 2024, states like Montana issued proclamations declaring Invest In Veterans Week, acknowledging the vital role veteran-owned businesses play in communities across America. Now, it is time to expand this recognition nationwide. A Presidential Proclamation would not only solidify this observance but would also ensure that veteran entrepreneurship receives the federal acknowledgment it deserves—highlighting their service not just on the battlefield, but in the economy.

Through my role as the Lead Spokesperson for National Invest In Veterans Week®, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges veterans face in entrepreneurship and the importance of a unified effort to support them. State and local leaders, business communities, and policymakers must step forward to officially proclaim March 1st to 7th as National Invest In Veterans Week® and urge the President to do the same.

This is more than just a week—it’s a movement to ensure veteran-owned businesses thrive, their contributions are recognized, and their legacies continue to shape the future of our nation.

The Values That Drive My Mission

As the child of a military veteran, I’ve had the privilege of growing up with a deep appreciation for the core values instilled within military culture. These values—honor, discipline, loyalty, and selfless service—are not just words; they are guiding principles that have shaped my identity and outlook on life.

Being connected to such a great institution like the military, even if indirectly, has allowed me to witness the sacrifices made and the dedication required to serve something greater than oneself. These lessons have become the foundation of who I am today.

One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned is the importance of discipline. In the military, everything is structured, and there is a constant emphasis on efficiency and responsibility. Whether it’s waking up early to train, maintaining equipment, or executing a mission, discipline is at the core of success. Growing up in this environment, I’ve applied these same principles to my career, education, and community service, knowing that consistency and dedication are the keys to meaningful progress.

I have also inherited the loyalty and camaraderie that is deeply embedded in military culture. Service members rely on one another, forming unbreakable bonds built on trust and shared experiences. As a military veteran’s child, I’ve not only seen these bonds within my family but have also been embraced by a larger community that understands the sacrifices military families make. This experience has fueled my desire to contribute meaningfully to my community, both locally and internationally.

National Invest In Veterans Week®: A Global Platform for Veteran Entrepreneurs

One of the most impactful ways I have been able to serve this community is through National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), where I am privileged to serve as the Lead Spokesperson. NIVW is not just a weeklong observance—it is a national and global platform that amplifies the voices of veterans, syndicates their stories, and advocates for their success in entrepreneurship.

Through NIVW, my words, and the words of veteran entrepreneurs, don’t stay confined to local communities—they reach national and international audiences. The power of syndication through NIVW allows veteran advocacy to spread across multiple U.S. states and 29 international markets, ensuring that veteran-owned businesses receive visibility, recognition, and the resources they need to thrive.

As Lead Spokesperson, I have had the privilege of:
✅ Advocating for policies that support veteran-owned businesses at the local, state, and federal levels.
✅ Collaborating with leaders to expand financial, educational, and mentorship opportunities for veterans.
✅ Engaging with international military communities to advocate for global support for veteran entrepreneurs.

This work is far-reaching and deeply personal. The lessons of military service—discipline, resilience, and selfless service—are the same values that drive the veteran business community. Through NIVW, these stories are not only told, but they are amplified across borders, reaching millions who share the belief that veterans deserve every opportunity to succeed.

From Personal Lessons to Global Leadership

The combination of being raised with military principles, my contributions through National Invest In Veterans Week®, and my commitment to service-driven leadership have shaped me into a strong, determined individual.

In both my professional life and community work, I bring a sense of urgency, accountability, and purpose to everything I do. I’ve learned to work relentlessly toward my goals, just as soldiers do in their missions. Whether leading from the front or working behind the scenes, I carry the spirit of service, discipline, and dedication with me.

But this mission is bigger than me.

At its core, National Invest In Veterans Week® is more than just an initiative—it is a national movement, a catalyst for change, and a platform for amplifying veteran entrepreneurs’ impact. Through this platform, I am not just speaking for myself—I am speaking for the countless veterans whose contributions to our economy and society deserve recognition and celebration.

A Call to Action: Secure Proclamations & Presidential Recognition

Now, I call on:
📢 State and local officials to issue proclamations recognizing March 1st to 7th as National Invest In Veterans Week®.
📢 Business and community leaders to amplify veteran entrepreneurs, invest in their businesses, and create pathways for their success.
📢 The President of the United States to officially proclaim National Invest In Veterans Week®, cementing this initiative in national history as a recognized celebration of veteran entrepreneurs.

This is more than an observance—it is a movement that has the power to shape the future of veteran entrepreneurship. By working together, we can ensure that those who have served our nation are given the opportunities, resources, and recognition they rightfully deserve.

Together, we can make National Invest In Veterans Week® a permanent fixture in our nation’s calendar—a week where veteran entrepreneurs receive the support, celebration, and national recognition they have earned.

The time for action is now.

#InvestInVeteransWeek #NIVW #VeteranEntrepreneurs #SupportVeteranBusinesses #ProclaimNIVW #VeteranAdvocacy

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📢 This story can also be found across our nationally syndicated network at the following locations:

📌 LouisianaVeterans.com/news/a-call-for-national-recognition-proclaiming-national-invest-in-veterans-week

📌 KansasVeterans.com/news/a-call-for-national-recognition-proclaiming-national-invest-in-veterans-week

📌 RhodeIslandVeterans.com/news/a-call-for-national-recognition-proclaiming-national-invest-in-veterans-week

📌 NewHampshireVeterans.com/news/a-call-for-national-recognition-proclaiming-national-invest-in-veterans-week

📌 DelawareVeterans.com/news/a-call-for-national-recognition-proclaiming-national-invest-in-veterans-week

📌 PennsylvaniaVeterans.com/news/a-call-for-national-recognition-proclaiming-national-invest-in-veterans-week

📌 SouthCarolinaVeterans.com/news/a-call-for-national-recognition-proclaiming-national-invest-in-veterans-week

📌 MississippiVeterans.com/news/a-call-for-national-recognition-proclaiming-national-invest-in-veterans-week

📌 WyomingVeterans.com/news/a-call-for-national-recognition-proclaiming-national-invest-in-veterans-week

📌 WestVirginiaVeterans.com/news/a-call-for-national-recognition-proclaiming-national-invest-in-veterans-week

📌 TennesseeVeterans.com/news/a-call-for-national-recognition-proclaiming-national-invest-in-veterans-week

📌 NewJerseyVeterans.com/news/a-call-for-national-recognition-proclaiming-national-invest-in-veterans-week

📌 NorthDakotaVeterans.com/news/a-call-for-national-recognition-proclaiming-national-invest-in-veterans-week

📌 FloridaVeterans.com/news/a-call-for-national-recognition-proclaiming-national-invest-in-veterans-week

📢 By syndicating this story across multiple state platforms, we ensure that veteran entrepreneurs and advocates nationwide can engage, support, and take action toward securing official recognition for National Invest In Veterans Week®. 🚀

Veteran Entrepreneurs Drive Economic Resilience as Private Payrolls Rise in Uncertain Market

February 5, 2025 – Amid Rising Job Numbers, Veteran-Owned Businesses Provide Economic Stability

As the U.S. economy continues its volatile recovery, with private payrolls growing by 183,000 jobs in January, veteran entrepreneurs are proving to be a pillar of economic resilience, innovation, and job creation. Amid concerns about inflation, labor market shifts, and geopolitical uncertainties, one sector remains steady: veteran-led businesses.

At the forefront of this movement is Angel Shuford, newly appointed President and CFO of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW). Shuford, a decorated U.S. Army air traffic controller, military spouse, and strategic business leader, has taken the helm at a critical juncture, ensuring that veteran-owned businesses not only survive but thrive in an unpredictable market.

Her appointment comes at a time when the labor market faces both optimistic job growth and economic instability, with private employment rising faster than expected but concerns about the sustainability of these gains looming.

LTC Rickey L. Pope (Ret.): “Angel is the Leader Who Will Cement Veterans as Economic Powerhouses”

LTC Rickey L. Pope (Ret.), former President and Co-Founder of NIVW, emphasized that veteran entrepreneurs are the backbone of economic stability, particularly in times of uncertainty.

“We’ve seen time and again that veteran-owned businesses don’t just survive economic downturns—they redefine industries. Angel Shuford is the leader who will cement veterans as economic powerhouses. Her ability to scale businesses, secure investment opportunities, and drive long-term economic policy is exactly what this country needs at this moment.”

Pope’s endorsement of Angel Shuford is more than just a leadership transition—it is a statement about the growing influence of veteran entrepreneurs in shaping America’s financial future.

Veteran-Owned Businesses Are Hiring While Corporations Cut Costs

The January ADP National Employment Report revealed that private payrolls grew faster than expected, with 183,000 jobs added in January, surpassing the 150,000 projected by economists. However, corporations continue to tighten budgets, implement layoffs, and reduce workforce expansion.

This is where veteran entrepreneurs come in.

“Veteran-owned businesses are stepping up while corporations scale back,” said Shuford. “We’re not just building businesses—we’re building sustainable employment opportunities for other veterans, military spouses, and communities that need economic stability.”

With Angel Shuford now leading the charge, National Invest In Veterans Week® is expanding into six new markets, ensuring that more veteran-owned businesses receive capital, mentorship, and visibility in today’s economy.

Why Veteran-Owned Businesses Are More Resilient in Economic Uncertainty

The economic resilience of veteran-owned businesses is well-documented. Studies show that veteran entrepreneurs have a higher success rate in business ownership due to their:

✅ Operational discipline gained from military service
✅ Adaptability in crisis situations
✅ Strong leadership and decision-making skills
✅ Commitment to mission execution, even under financial constraints

While major corporations adjust hiring strategies, veteran-owned businesses are filling gaps in critical industries, from technology and logistics to finance and consulting.

“We need to recognize that veteran businesses are a stabilizing force in America’s economy,” said LTC Pope. “And under Angel’s leadership, that force is only getting stronger.”

Angel Shuford’s Vision for Veteran Economic Growth in 2025

Shuford’s strategy for NIVW’s next phase of expansion includes:

1. Securing financial backing for veteran-owned businesses through strategic partnerships with investors and corporate sponsors
   

2. Expanding National Invest In Veterans Week® into six new markets to increase economic impact nationwide
   

3. Strengthening policy advocacy to ensure veteran entrepreneurs receive the funding, tax incentives, and federal contracts they deserve

“This is not just about honoring veterans—it’s about creating economic powerhouses,” said Shuford. “Veteran-owned businesses are the most underutilized asset in this country’s financial future. That’s what we’re changing.”

With private payrolls rising but long-term job stability uncertain, one thing remains clear: veteran entrepreneurs, under the leadership of Angel Shuford, will be the driving force of economic resilience in America.

For more information on National Invest In Veterans Week® and how to support veteran-owned businesses, visit InvestInVeteransWeek.com.

Angel Shuford Appointed President of National Invest In Veterans Week®: A New Era of Veteran Entrepreneurship

Angel Shuford Appointed President of National Invest In Veterans Week®: A Defining Moment in Veteran Economic Empowerment

LTC Rickey L. Pope (Ret.) on Angel Shuford’s Leadership: “She Is the Architect of the Next Era”

In a groundbreaking leadership transition, Angel Shuford has officially been named the President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), ushering in a new era of global expansion, financial strength, and institutional growth for veteran entrepreneurs.

Her appointment follows the tenure of LTC Rickey L. Pope (Ret.), the outgoing President and Co-Founder, who has spent years building NIVW into a congressionally recognized movement and a powerful force in veteran economic advocacy.

In his formal statement, LTC Pope framed Angel’s leadership as more than just a transition—it is a transformation.

“Angel Shuford isn’t just assuming leadership; she is architecting the next era of veteran entrepreneurship. She is redefining what economic empowerment looks like for veterans, turning symbolism into sustained financial strength. With her expertise, NIVW isn’t just growing—it is becoming an institution that will set the standard for how we invest in veteran businesses.” – LTC Rickey L. Pope (Ret.)

This endorsement from one of NIVW’s founding figures underscores Angel’s exceptional strategic vision, financial expertise, and her ability to scale veteran entrepreneurship into a movement with long-term impact.

Angel Shuford: A Legacy of Leadership in Military, Finance, and Business Strategy

With a distinguished background in military service as an Army Reserve air traffic controller, Angel has spent years honing the discipline, precision, and high-stakes decision-making skills required for national leadership.

Her rapid rise within NIVW is no accident—it is the result of a clear and effective strategic vision that has already demonstrated:
✅ Financial Mastery: Angel has positioned NIVW for multi-year financial sustainability, ensuring that its programs and funding channels continue to grow.
✅ Operational Scalability: Under her guidance, NIVW is expanding into six new markets, increasing its national and international reach.
✅ Strategic Influence: She has built relationships with corporate investors, policymakers, and financial institutions, moving NIVW beyond recognition into a powerful financial advocacy platform for veteran businesses.

Her leadership will not only continue the momentum established by LTC Pope—it will amplify it into a movement with global economic influence.

LTC Pope on Angel’s Institutional Legacy: “She Is Building Something That Will Outlast Us All”

For years, NIVW has been at the forefront of veteran business advocacy, but Angel’s leadership marks the moment where it transitions from a movement to a lasting institution.

“Angel isn’t just leading an organization—she is creating a financial and policy infrastructure that will outlast us all. Her work in business, finance, and advocacy is setting the foundation for a new era of veteran economic influence. This is about more than leadership—it’s about legacy.” – LTC Rickey L. Pope (Ret.)

With this declaration, LTC Pope positions Angel as the key figure in NIVW’s transformation from an awareness-driven initiative to an economic powerhouse for veteran entrepreneurs.

The Next Era: Institutionalizing Veteran Economic Power

Under Angel Shuford’s leadership, NIVW is executing a bold new strategy that includes:
✅ Expanding NIVW into six additional markets, increasing access to funding and business opportunities for veterans.
✅ Strengthening partnerships with corporate entities, investors, and government agencies to create long-term financial backing for veteran-owned businesses.
✅ Advancing veteran business advocacy on Capitol Hill, ensuring that policies, funding, and institutional support are aligned with the economic interests of veteran entrepreneurs.

With these initiatives, Angel is turning NIVW into more than a recognition event—it is becoming an economic driver for veteran-owned businesses.

“This is about legacy-building. We are ensuring that veterans aren’t just honored—they are financially empowered, invested in, and positioned as leaders in the national economy.” – Angel Shuford

Her leadership is poised to make National Invest In Veterans Week® one of the most powerful economic advocacy movements for veterans in history.

With LTC Pope’s endorsement and a visionary roadmap ahead, Angel Shuford is not just leading NIVW—she is redefining veteran entrepreneurship and solidifying its place in the global economy.

Under her leadership, NIVW is evolving into an institution that will shape the future of veteran business success for generations to come.