CEOcircle: Helping Veteran Entrepreneurs Scale Through Peer Leadership

For Veteran entrepreneurs leading high-growth companies, scaling a business can feel isolating. As challenges become more complex and stakes get higher, having access to experienced peers and trusted advisors becomes critical. That’s where CEOcircle comes in.

Created through a partnership between the D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) at Syracuse University and JPMorgan Chase Commercial Banking, CEOcircle is an executive peer accountability program designed specifically for Veteran and military spouse business leaders who are growing and scaling their companies.

A Peer Network Built for Growth

Unlike traditional networking groups or business coaching programs, CEOcircle focuses on bringing together Veteran and military spouse executives operating at similar stages of growth. Participants join small peer cohorts where they can openly discuss challenges, share strategies and build long-term relationships with fellow entrepreneurs who understand both business leadership and military culture.

The 13-month program includes:

• Monthly virtual peer huddles
• Quarterly in-person fly-in events
• Access to national business leaders and subject matter experts
• Facilitated accountability and goal-setting
• Networking opportunities with fellow Veteran business leaders and corporate partners

Participants are grouped into “call sign” cohorts based on company size, growth stage and business maturity, creating highly relevant conversations and actionable support.

Designed for Veteran-Owned Businesses Ready to Scale

CEOcircle is built for Veteran and military spouse entrepreneurs leading companies with:

• $1 million or more in annual revenue, or
• $5 million or more raised in capital

Eligible participants must serve as a CEO, senior executive or controlling shareholder in their business and demonstrate strong growth potential. Industries represented in the program range from government contracting and manufacturing to healthcare, technology and consumer products.

Since launching in 2021, the program has supported more than 170 Veteran and military spouse business leaders. According to IVMF, more than 70% of participants reported gaining new business opportunities through the program.

Learning from National Business Leaders

One of CEOcircle’s biggest advantages is direct exposure to accomplished executives, founders and industry experts. Past speakers and advisors have included leaders from companies such as JPMorgan Chase and General Dynamics, along with successful Veteran entrepreneurs and subject matter experts in leadership, negotiation, AI, finance and business strategy.

The program’s in-person forums provide opportunities for deeper collaboration, leadership development and strategic planning while strengthening connections within the Veteran entrepreneur ecosystem.

Why Programs Like CEOcircle Matter

Veteran entrepreneurs often possess the leadership, resilience and operational discipline needed to build successful businesses. However, scaling a company requires more than determination. Access to the right relationships, mentorship and strategic guidance can significantly impact long-term growth.

Programs like CEOcircle help bridge that gap by surrounding Veteran business leaders with peers, resources and opportunities designed specifically for their stage of business growth.

For Veteran’s Business Enterprises® (VBEs), programs like this can complement efforts to grow through corporate supplier diversity initiatives, strategic partnerships and expanded market access. At NaVOBA, we know that strong networks and meaningful business relationships are essential to helping Veteran-owned businesses thrive.

Learn More About CEOcircle

Applications for CEOcircle typically open each summer for cohorts beginning later in the year. Veteran and military spouse entrepreneurs interested in learning more can visit: CEOcircle Program Information

Applications for CEOcircle close June 12, 2026.