Locations/Headquarters: Arlington, TN; Memphis, TN
Business Accolades:
NaVOBA Certified
VBE Spotlight on: The Hat Pros
The Hat Pros
The Hat Pros was founded in 2002 by Joshua Dowden.
This week's VBE Spotlight features The Hat Pros, a proud Veteran-Owned, family-operated small business specializing in high-quality headwear. Established in 2002 and based in Arlington, TN, they have expanded their collection to include a diverse range of brands and styles, along with top-notch custom embroidery services. Committed to ensuring a perfect fit and exceptional quality, The Hat Pros understand the importance of a well-fitting hat for style, comfort, and functionality. They welcome visitors to their showroom in Arlington and Memphis, TN, to explore their wide selection and experience their dedicated customer service.
Learn more about The Hat Pros at www.thehatpros.com
About the Business - Veteran-Owned, Quality Headwear
What services do you provide?
"Blank and custom embellished headwear sales"
Who are your primary customers?
"Businesses, Schools, Sports Teams, Organizations, Military, Law Enforcement, etc."
When and how did you start your business?
"In 2002, we started as a small custom embroidery shop, operating out of our garage."
Business Growth Challenges - Growing Through Challenge and Change
What were some of the challenges in starting your business?
"In the early days, trying to balance growing the business, while serving on active duty, was the biggest challenge."
What is the key to the success of your business?
"The ability to start the business while not needing to rely on profits allowed the growth of this business possible."
What lessons learned can you share with people to make their business succeed?
"Know the business inside and out, and don't be afraid to take calculated risk."
What pitfalls should they avoid?
"Trying to grow too quick, and expecting to be profitable from the start."
What other information about you and your business would you like to share with the NaVOBA Community?
"Find a product or service that has proven demand, then be the best at it!"
Service information
Branch:
United States Navy
Service Years:
1991-2016
Highest Rank Attained:
E9/MCPO
Why did you join the military?
"Raised in a military family, and really didn't know what I wanted to do for a career."
Military Occupation:
"U.S. Navy EOD Technician"
Any significant military achievements / experience you would like to mention?
"2 x Bronze Stars, Command Master Chief, several combat deployments"
Biography/Fun Facts
People might be interested to know what?
"In my early Navy years, I was fortunate to be a part of the Navy Marine Mammal Program, training dolphins to locate and neutralize mines."
What do you do to relax?
"My favorite thing to do is riding motorcycles. I enjoy touring, as well as adventure riding off-road."
What would you be doing if you were not a business owner?
"If I could pick another field of work, I would be a Homicide Detective. I enjoy watching Dateline, Forensic Files, etc. and trying to solve murder mysteries."
Veteran-owned businesses have a new opportunity to step onto a national stage. The PGA of America has officially opened registration for its PGA VendorMatch program, connecting local suppliers with procurement opportunities tied to its 2027 major championships. For Veteran and service-disabled Veteran-owned businesses, this is more than an event, it’s a pathway to meaningful corporate contracting opportunities. What Is PGA VendorMatch? PGA VendorMatch is a supplier matchmaking initiative designed to connect local and small businesses with buyers supporting PGA spectator championships. The program helps businesses gain visibility, build relationships and compete for contracts tied to high-profile sporting events. For NaVOBA-certified businesses and those seeking to grow within corporate supply chains, this aligns directly with our mission: helping Veteran-owned businesses compete and win. Key Opportunities for 2027 Selected businesses may have the opportunity to support three major championships: Senior PGA Championship April 15–18, 2027 The Concession Golf Club PGA Championship May 17–23, 2027 Fields Ranch East KPMG Women’s PGA Championship June 24–27, 2027 Congressional Country Club What Types of Businesses Should Apply? Opportunities span a wide range of Tier II goods and services, including: Food and beverage Transportation Staffing Event services Florals and décor And more If your business supports large-scale events or corporate operations, this is a strong opportunity to get in front of major buyers. Why This Matters for Veteran-Owned Businesses Programs like PGA VendorMatch are critical because they intentionally create access. The PGA of America has emphasized its commitment to building a supply chain that reflects the communities it serves, specifically including Veteran and service-disabled Veteran-owned businesses. That commitment translates into real opportunities to: Establish relationships with major suppliers Gain experience supporting large national events Position your business for long-term contracting growth At NaVOBA, we know that access is often the biggest barrier. This program helps remove it. Strengthen Your Position with NaVOBA Certification As you consider applying, one key differentiator can set your business apart: certification through the National Veteran-Owned Business Association . NaVOBA certification verifies your business as a Veteran-Owned Business Enterprise® (VBE) or Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Enterprise® (SDVBE), making it easier for corporations and procurement teams to confidently identify and engage with your company. For opportunities like PGA VendorMatch, certification can: Increase your credibility with buyers and prime contractors Help you stand out in a competitive supplier pool Provide access to corporate connections and sourcing opportunities Position your business for long-term inclusion in supplier diversity programs In short, certification doesn’t just validate your status, it helps open doors. Learn more about certification at NaVOBA.org/certification . The Bigger Economic Impact The golf industry represents a $102 billion market, with $31 billion tied to travel and tourism. Major championships don’t just attract fans, they generate real economic activity in host communities. For Veteran-owned businesses, participating in that ecosystem can mean: Increased revenue Expanded networks Long-term business growth How to Apply Registration is open now through May 27, 2026 . Businesses located in or near host communities are especially encouraged to apply. To learn more and register, visit the PGA VendorMatch website . Final Take This is exactly the kind of opportunity Veteran-owned businesses should be pursuing: high-visibility, relationship-driven and rooted in long-term growth. If you’re ready to compete in corporate supply chains and showcase your capabilities on a national stage, PGA VendorMatch is worth your attention.
Explore the Hire Heroes USA Ripple Grant and HIRE Vets Medallion Award. Funding, recognition and tools to help Veteran-Owned Businesses grow and hire Veterans.
Thinking About Selling Your Veteran-Owned Business in the Next Few Years?
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