Sara Pomposo Appointed Chief Advisor, Audience Growth & Strategic Syndication at National Invest In Veterans Week®
National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) is excited to announce the appointment of Sara Pomposo as Chief Advisor, Audience Growth & Strategic Syndication. With an exceptional track record of elevating brands and fostering audience growth, Pomposo is set to lead the charge in expanding NIVW's global reach, ensuring that veteran-owned businesses continue to receive the recognition and resources they deserve on an international scale.
Update: Jim Freeman and Jeff Shuford Make History with Five Congressional Record Entries
Jim Freeman and Jeff Shuford Make History with 5 Congressional Record Entries, 5 Proclamations, and a Landmark Court Case
For the first time in U.S. history, a single family has secured five Congressional Record entries and five state proclamations, recognizing their lasting impact on music, business, and veteran advocacy. Jim Freeman, a doo-wop pioneer with The Five Satins, was honored for his role in shaping American music, while Jeff Shuford was recognized for his leadership in veteran entrepreneurship through National Invest In Veterans Week®.
Additionally, Iowa House Resolution 36 formally acknowledged Jim Freeman’s contributions to rock and roll, and a U.S. Court of Appeals citation recognized the cultural and legal significance of In the Still of the Nite, reinforcing the family's deep influence across industries.
📖 Read more about their historic achievements:
🔗 Invest In Veterans Magazine
🔗 Learn More: www.InvestInVeteransWeek.com
Angel Shuford Announces Sherman Williams Jr. as the Most Trademarked Veteran Beverage Entrepreneur in America
As President of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), I am proud to recognize Sherman Williams Jr. as the most federally trademarked veteran beverage entrepreneur in history. With 10 federally registered trademarks, Williams has redefined what is possible for veterans in business ownership, brand expansion, and intellectual property strategy.With 10 active federal trademarks spanning functional hydration, wellness drinks, and pet beverages, Williams has transformed the veteran-led beverage industry, strategically creating a brand ecosystem that dominates multiple market categories.
His success is unparalleled, positioning him among the most influential and strategic brand developers in the veteran business sector.
HarvardX Strong: Leading National Invest In Veterans Week® into a New Era
Excerpt: Harvard Leadership and the Future of Veteran Entrepreneurship
As President & CFO of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), I have the privilege of leading one of the most impactful veteran entrepreneurship initiatives in the world. My experience at HarvardX’s "Technology Entrepreneurship: Lab to Market" has provided me with a structured framework to scale innovation, financial sustainability, and long-term economic impact.
Harvard Business School’s Professor Karim R. Lakhani and Professor Vish Krishnan emphasized that entrepreneurship isn’t just about ideas—it’s about execution, market fit, and sustainable growth. Their insights have directly influenced how I approach building a scalable, financially strong, and globally recognized NIVW.
With a multi-generational vision, I am ensuring that NIVW’s leadership, economic strategy, and national influence continue to expand. By applying HarvardX methodologies and leveraging institutional partnerships—such as our work with Live Oak Bank, New York Life Investments, and Congressional leaders—NIVW is evolving into a sustainable force for veteran business success.
Further Reading & Resources:
Live Oak Bank Spotlights Veteran Entrepreneurship Using NIVW Research
Read moreShuford-Freeman-Hawley Military Legacy: A Multi-Generational Chronicle
Invest In Veterans Magazine | Florida Veterans
National Invest in Veterans Week Featured in ARSA’s Prestigious Aviation Life Calendar
National Invest in Veterans Week (March 1–7) continues to earn its place as a cornerstone event in recognizing and empowering veteran entrepreneurs, as highlighted in the Aeronautical Repair Station Association’s (ARSA) 2024 Aviation Life Calendar.
Media Alert: The Most Trademarked Veteran Beverage Entrepreneur in America—Sherman Williams Jr. of Health2O
National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) proudly announces that Sherman Williams Jr., Founder of Body Aqua (Health2O), is officially the most federally trademarked veteran beverage entrepreneur in America. With 10 federally registered trademarks, including the congressionally recognized National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), Williams has revolutionized functional hydration, wellness beverages, and veteran-led business innovation.
This unprecedented intellectual property portfolio positions Body Aqua as the most trademarked veteran-owned beverage brand in the nation, setting a new benchmark for veteran entrepreneurship, brand expansion, and industry leadership.
A Call for National Recognition: Proclaiming National Invest In Veterans Week®
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.
Veteran Entrepreneurs Drive Economic Resilience as Private Payrolls Rise in Uncertain Market
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.
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.
Angel Shuford Appointed President of National Invest In Veterans Week®: A New Era of Veteran Entrepreneurship
In a historic leadership transition, Angel Shuford has been officially appointed as the President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), marking a new era of expansion, economic empowerment, and legacy-building for veteran entrepreneurs.
Her appointment comes as LTC Rickey L. Pope (Ret.), the outgoing President and Co-Founder, steps down after years of distinguished leadership. Under his tenure, NIVW evolved from a grassroots initiative into a congressionally recognized movement dedicated to highlighting the impact of veteran-owned businesses.
Dr. Richard S. Freeman Joins National Invest In Veterans Week® as Legal Advisor, Marking a New Chapter for the Shuford-Freeman Legacy
Dr. Richard S. Freeman is not just a lawyer—he is an institution. His career, spanning over four decades, has impacted civil rights law, labor justice, international humanitarian efforts, and corporate governance. His work has shaped major industries, protected marginalized communities, and established legal precedents that continue to influence policy today. As a legal strategist, educator, and civil rights champion, Dr. Freeman has built a reputation as one of the foremost legal minds of his generation.
Drayton Florence Announces Retirement from National Invest In Veterans Week® and Tech From Vets; Sherman Williams to Lead, Jim Freeman to Advise Cultural Partnerships
National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) and Tech From Vets announce the retirement of Drayton Florence, co-founder and Director of Partnerships, due to unforeseen medical circumstances. Florence has played a pivotal role in veteran entrepreneurship and advocacy, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to guide both organizations for years to come.
Rep. Mike Levin: A Champion for Veterans and Community Investment
As National Invest in Veterans Week® (March 1-7) approaches, it’s the perfect time to celebrate leaders who are making a difference for veterans and their communities. Among those deserving recognition is Representative Mike Levin, who has consistently demonstrated his commitment to investing in veterans and their futures.
A Legacy of Advocacy for Veterans
Earlier this year, Rep. Levin received the prestigious Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) 2024 Congressional Award for Legislator of the Year. This honor highlights his unwavering dedication to veterans, service members, and their families. As the Ranking Member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity, Rep. Levin has authored more than two dozen bipartisan laws aimed at easing veterans’ transition to civilian life.
National Invest In Veterans Week® Market Reach and Demographic Report
National Invest In Veterans Week®: Empowering 4.4 Million U.S. Veterans
National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) connects 4.4 million veterans across 14 U.S. states with resources, funding, and mentorship to foster economic growth and innovation. Through state-specific platforms like FloridaVeterans.com and PennsylvaniaVeterans.com, NIVW serves veterans in high-impact regions, including 1.4 million veterans in Florida and 731,400 in Pennsylvania.
With veteran-owned businesses generating $1.2 trillion annually, NIVW is driving a 25% projected increase in veteran-led startups by 2030 while creating 1.5 million new jobs. These initiatives, coupled with the innovative π (Pledge to Invest) = Veteran Businesses℠ platform, ensure veterans thrive in transformative industries like AI, renewable energy, and cybersecurity.
Explore how NIVW is transforming veteran entrepreneurship: National Invest In Veterans Week®.
Briefing from Angel Shuford, Vice President & CFO, National Invest in Veterans Week®
As National Invest in Veterans Week® (NIVW) embarks on a new chapter following Jeff Shuford’s retirement on December 14th, his leadership and insights continue to shape our strategy and vision. Jeff’s ability to develop a sustainable, forward-looking roadmap has laid the foundation for the extraordinary post-retirement growth and global recognition we are experiencing today.
This report delves deeply into Jeff Shuford’s post-retirement quotes, which reflect his enduring influence, and combines this guidance with actionable data and insights to further our mission of empowering veterans worldwide.
Veteran Entrepreneurs ONLY: Grants, Resources, and Legislative Innovation
National Invest In Veterans Week® is a pioneering initiative dedicated to empowering veteran entrepreneurs through advocacy, resources, and transformative legislation. By addressing systemic challenges like access to capital, mentorship, and economic equity, the organization champions the success of veterans in business and innovation.
Explore their initiatives and groundbreaking contributions:
Learn more about their mission and programs at investinveteransweek.com.
Dr. Brian Babin’s Endorsement Powers National Invest In Veterans Week and Aviation’s Role in Empowering Heroes
“This week is National Invest in Veterans Week, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every veteran who has fought for our country. 🇺🇸” – These profound words from Dr. Brian Babin, Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics, delivered in 2020, remain a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring our nation’s veterans. His statement stands as both a tribute to their sacrifices and a challenge to create meaningful opportunities that amplify their potential as leaders and innovators.
Celebrating the Inclusion of National Invest In Veterans Week® in the Future Aviation/Aerospace Workforce News Calendar
We are thrilled to announce that National Invest In Veterans Week® (March 1-7) has been officially featured in the highly esteemed Future Aviation/Aerospace Workforce News Calendar of Events. This recognition highlights the pivotal role veterans play in shaping the future of the aviation and aerospace industries and reflects the dedication of leaders like Angel Shuford and Kevin D. Shoun, who continue to bridge the gap between veteran talent and workforce opportunities.
From the Desk of Angel Shuford: Honoring Growth, Innovation, and Partnership for National Invest In Veterans Week®
As we proudly move into 2025, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the journey and evolution of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) and express our deep gratitude to our partner, National Day Calendar®. Since its inception in 2019, National Day Calendar® has been instrumental in amplifying the mission and message of NIVW, ensuring that March 1-7 is celebrated as a time to honor the resilience, innovation, and economic contributions of veteran entrepreneurs.
House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast: Promoting Investment in Veterans
On March 6, 2024, during National Invest in Veterans Week®, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast shared a compelling blog post titled Invest in America, Invest in Veterans. His message underscored the deep commitment our nation owes to its veterans and the crucial need to invest in their futures. Mast’s advocacy highlighted how veterans’ sacrifices on the battlefield translate into a call for us to create opportunities for them to thrive in civilian life, particularly in entrepreneurship.
Chairman Mast’s leadership and vision continue to promote the investment in veterans that our nation so critically needs, inspiring a legacy of empowerment, innovation, and success for generations to come.
Mission Montana: Veterans Leading the Charge in Economic Resilience
Montana has solidified itself as a state where veterans thrive, bolstered by a historic streak of low unemployment and a deep commitment to honoring those who served. Governor Greg Gianforte's leadership has kept Montana’s unemployment rate at 3.2% as of November 2024, marking 41 consecutive months of rates at or below 3.4%, a record-breaking achievement.
🫡Our Team
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![A woman wearing a navy blazer with an embroidered coat of arms, gold lapel pin, and jewelry, sitting with her hands clasped, with American flags in the background.]()
President Angel Shuford
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) | Army Veteran
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![A man in a blue suit and white shirt standing in front of an American flag against a black background.]()
Retired U.S. Army First Sergeant Kevin D. Shoun
Senior Advisor | Civic Leadership and Policy Development
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![A woman with blonde hair smiling in front of an American flag and a black background with a logo that says 'National Invest in Veteran Owned Business Week.']()
Sara Pomposo
Chief Advisor | Audience Growth & Strategic Syndication
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![A man in a red shirt holding a music award trophy, standing next to a framed platinum record plaque on display, with framed posters and awards hanging on the wall behind him.]()
Jim Freeman of The Five Satins
GRAMMY Hall of Famer | Brand Ambassador
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![A man with gray hair and glasses stands behind a music stand, speaking into a microphone while using hand gestures, against a dark background.]()
Pastor Ron Henson
Social Impact Advisor | Navy Veteran
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![A man in a U.S. military uniform in front of an American flag.]()
LTC Rickey L. Pope USA, Ret.
CO-FOUNDER | Retired Army Veteran, Retired Firefighter
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![A man in a gray blazer and shirt posing with arms crossed in front of a city skyline at dusk, with buildings and a bridge reflected in the water.]()
Jeff Shuford
CO-FOUNDER | Iraq War Veteran & Military Spouse
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![Three men in a discussion in an office break room with black and white geometric wallpaper. One man with a beard, wearing glasses and a suit, is talking to a bald man wearing a black sweater, who is making a gesture with his hands. The third man with dreadlocks, dressed in a blue suit and holding papers, listens attentively.]()
Drayton Florence
CO-FOUNDER | NFL Veteran & Military Brat
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![A smiling man with glasses, wearing a green sweater over a striped collared shirt, standing with crossed arms in an office space near a window, with framed certificates on the wall behind him.]()
Erik M. Pelton & Associates, PLLC
Trademark Attorney | Veteran IP Advocate
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![A man in a green vest with a plaid shirt and bow tie standing in front of a booth labeled 'Body Aqua' at a trade show or expo.]()
CPT Sherman WIlliams, USA, Ret.
Advisor | Retired Army Veteran
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![Two men in business suits having a meeting in an office with a window showing a city view, discussing a presentation on a laptop.]()
Brandon Sugar
Legacy UX/UI Designer | Army Veteran
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![A young man with dark hair styled back, light eyes, and a light beard, wearing a blue suit and white shirt, looking at the camera.]()
Mike Bicek
Creative Director | Army Veteran
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![A small brown and black puppy sitting on a red folding chair at the beach, with sunglasses and a colorful bag in the background.]()
Private Jewel
Co-Founders Pup | Biewer Terrier
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![A smiling man wearing sunglasses and a striped white shirt.]()
Lonnell McCall I
Sr. Spokesperson | Retired Navy Veteran
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Celeste Everett
Legacy IT Consultant | Army Veteran
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![Composite image of three young men dressed as a graduate, a football player, and a young man in formal wear against a stadium background.]()
Lonnell McCall II
Jr. Spokesperson | Military Brat
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![Close-up of a young man with dark brown hair, styled back, with light eyes, a light beard, and wearing a dark shirt, standing in front of a background with horizontal lines.]()
Christopher B. Mueller
Lead Video Spokesperson | Veteran Advocate
“As an educator committed to professional growth, I fully endorse National Invest in Veterans Week® for recognizing that veterans are vital economic assets who deserve tangible support in entrepreneurship and workforce development.”