NaVOBA Celebrates National Veterans Small Business Week 2026: Honoring Veteran-Owned, American Made

The National Veteran-Owned Business Association (NaVOBA) is proud to join the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) in celebrating National Veterans Small Business Week (NVSBW), November 9–13, 2026. This annual observance recognizes the contributions of Veteran entrepreneurs and highlights the resources, connections and opportunities available to help Veteran-Owned businesses succeed.

Now in its 13th year, National Veterans Small Business Week brings together Veterans, service members, military spouses, business leaders and community partners nationwide to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit of those who have served.

This year’s theme, "Honoring Veteran-Owned, American Made," recognizes Veteran entrepreneurs who continue serving their communities and strengthening the American economy through business ownership, innovation and job creation.

Recognizing the Impact of Veteran-Owned Businesses

Veteran-Owned businesses play a vital role in America’s economic growth and resilience. According to the SBA, more than 1.6 million Veteran-Owned small businesses operate across the United States, generating approximately $1 trillion in annual sales, supporting nearly 3 million jobs and contributing $179 billion in payroll.

From manufacturing and technology to professional services and construction, Veteran entrepreneurs bring leadership, discipline, adaptability and mission-driven thinking to industries throughout the country.

At NaVOBA, we recognize the importance of ensuring Veteran-Owned businesses have opportunities to compete, grow and build meaningful relationships with corporate and government partners. Through certification, advocacy and business connections, NaVOBA works to create opportunities for Veteran’s Business Enterprises® (VBEs) and Service-Disabled Veteran’s Business Enterprises® (SDVBEs).

National Veterans Small Business Week provides an opportunity to celebrate these businesses while encouraging organizations and consumers to recognize the value of working with Veteran entrepreneurs.

A Week of Resources, Connections and Opportunities

Throughout National Veterans Small Business Week, the SBA and its resource partners will host virtual and in-person events focused on helping Veteran entrepreneurs start, manage and expand their businesses.

Each day will highlight an important area of Veteran entrepreneurship:

Monday, November 9: Veteran-Owned, Made in America — Manufacturing the Future

The week begins by recognizing Veteran-Owned manufacturers and their contributions to American industry.

Programming will highlight resources designed to expand domestic manufacturing, increase access to capital, connect businesses with investment opportunities and support American-made products and services.

Tuesday, November 10: Connections & Contracts — Unlocking Federal Marketplace Growth Through Partnerships

Building meaningful partnerships is essential to business growth.

Tuesday’s programming will explore federal contracting opportunities, SBA certifications, mentorship programs and strategic partnerships that help Veteran entrepreneurs compete in the federal marketplace.

For Veteran-Owned businesses looking to expand their customer base, understanding procurement opportunities and building relationships with buyers can open doors to long-term success.

Wednesday, November 11: Veterans Day

On Veterans Day, NaVOBA joins communities nationwide in honoring the service, sacrifice and dedication of America’s military Veterans.

We also recognize the Veterans who continue to make a difference through entrepreneurship, creating jobs, strengthening local economies and serving their communities long after their military service concludes.

Thursday, November 12: Access to Capital — SBA-Backed Funding Opportunities

Access to funding is an important part of starting and scaling a successful business.

Thursday’s programming will highlight SBA-backed financing resources, including the 7(a) Loan Program, 504 Loan Program, Microloan Program and other funding opportunities.

Entrepreneurs can also learn about resources supporting innovation, research and business expansion.

Friday, November 13: Resources for Veterans — Training and Mentorship for Entrepreneurs

The final day of National Veterans Small Business Week focuses on education, mentorship and entrepreneurial development.

Veterans, transitioning service members and military spouses can explore programs such as Boots to Business, Veteran Business Outreach Centers (VBOCs), SCORE and Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs).

These resources provide valuable guidance for entrepreneurs at every stage, from developing an initial business idea to expanding an established company.

Creating Opportunities for Veteran-Owned Businesses

While National Veterans Small Business Week is an opportunity to celebrate Veteran entrepreneurship, it also reinforces the importance of continued support throughout the year.

At NaVOBA, our mission is to create opportunities for all of America’s Veteran-Owned businesses. By connecting certified VBEs and SDVBEs with corporations committed to Veteran supplier inclusion, NaVOBA helps strengthen relationships that can lead to meaningful business opportunities.

Certification can help Veteran-Owned businesses establish credibility, increase visibility and connect with organizations seeking qualified Veteran suppliers.

As we recognize National Veterans Small Business Week, we encourage corporate partners, procurement professionals and business leaders to explore opportunities to engage Veteran-Owned businesses within their supply chains.

Supporting Veteran entrepreneurship means more than recognizing military service. It means helping Veteran business owners access the relationships, resources and opportunities they need to succeed.

Get Involved in National Veterans Small Business Week

Veteran entrepreneurs, military spouses, corporate partners and community supporters are encouraged to participate in National Veterans Small Business Week activities from November 9–13.

The SBA will offer events, workshops, networking opportunities and educational resources throughout the week.

Here’s how you can participate:

• Attend an event: Explore virtual and in-person workshops, training sessions and networking opportunities.
• Discover business resources: Learn about funding, contracting, mentorship and entrepreneurial development programs.
• Support Veteran-Owned businesses: Seek opportunities to purchase from, partner with and promote Veteran entrepreneurs.
• Share your story: Celebrate Veteran entrepreneurship on social media using #NVSBW26.
• Explore NaVOBA certification: Learn how certification can help eligible Veteran-Owned businesses increase their visibility and connect with corporate procurement opportunities.

Explore National Veterans Small Business Week events and resources: sba.gov/nvsbw

Learn more about NaVOBA certification: NaVOBA.org/certification

Honoring Service. Supporting Success.

Veterans have demonstrated their commitment to serving our nation. Through entrepreneurship, they continue that legacy by building businesses, creating jobs, developing innovative solutions and strengthening communities.

This National Veterans Small Business Week, NaVOBA proudly celebrates the accomplishments of Veteran entrepreneurs and reaffirms our commitment to helping Veteran-Owned businesses thrive.

Join us November 9–13 as we honor Veteran-Owned businesses, celebrate American entrepreneurship and recognize the lasting impact of those who have served.