BUSINESS

The Armed Forces Chamber is dedicated to educating, supporting, and empowering members of the Armed Forces as they navigate and excel in the business world. The Armed Forces Chamber serves as a vital resource, fostering economic growth through mentorship, advocacy, and collaboration. It provides a wide range of programs and services, including business training, networking opportunities, and access to exclusive resources, helping members serve, lead, and succeed. By championing veteran and military-affiliated businesses, the Armed Forces Chamber promotes economic independence and strengthens the community through its commitment to service and leadership.

STATISTICS OF VETERAN-OWNED BUSINESSES

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, veteran-owned businesses make a substantial contribution to the nation's economy. Data reveals that 304,823 veteran-owned businesses reported a remarkable $922.2 billion in receipts. These businesses collectively employed approximately 3.3 million people, generating an annual payroll of $179.9 billion. This demonstrates the significant economic impact and entrepreneurial spirit of veterans, who leverage their discipline, leadership, and experience from military service to thrive in business.

TOP VETERAN-FOUNDED STARTUPS

According to the Forbes Magazine some of the top veteran-founded startups include but are not limited to:

Enterprise Rental Car (Jack C. Taylor, U.S. Navy Veteran)
Godaddy.com (Bob Parsons, U.S. Marine Corps. Veteran)
ID.me (Blake Hall, U.S. Army Veteran)
Nike (Phil Knight, U.S. Army Veteran)
Sport Clips Haircuts (Gordon Logan, U.S. Air Force)
Walmart (Sam Walton, U.S. Army)

BUSINESS RESOURCE PARTNERS

Business resource partners of the Armed Forces Chamber proudly offer complimentary and low-cost services to members. These services include expert counseling, educational programs, essential tools, and practical training to empower businesses. By leveraging these resources, members gain valuable insights and support to achieve their entrepreneurial goals and enhance their professional growth. Business resource partners include: Harry Reid International Airport, Nevada Business Opportunity Fund, Nevada Department of Business and Industry (B&I), Nevada Governor's Office of Economic Development (GOED), Nevada Veterans Business Outreach Center (NVBOC), Nevada Women's Business Center (NWBC), Office of Small Business Advocacy, SCORE Las Vegas, Small Business Administration (SBA), Small Business Development Center (SBDC), University of Nevada Cooperative Extension (UNCE), UNLV Patent & Trademark Resource Center, and Vegas PBS.

Veterans Business & Economic Development:

A subsidiary of InterAlliance LTD and the first Nevada-based designated business development service for veterans, transitioning service members and reserve.

Nevada SBDC:

Nevada Small Business Development Center is the statewide resource of business development for anyone seeking to start or grow their business. Resource partner of US Small Business Administration www.

Nevada GOED (Governor's Office of Economic Development):

The Office of Entrepreneurship creates a common platform to highlight new and small business activities in support of statewide economic growth

US Small Business Administration:

SBA continues to help small business owners and entrepreneurs pursue the American dream. SBA is the only cabinet-level federal agency fully dedicated to small business and provides counseling, capital, and contracting expertise.

Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC):

The Nevada VBOC program hosts quarterly entrepreneurial development workshops at Nellis Air Force Base, Naval Air Station Fallon, and the surrounding communities. The free workshops are designed to provide the foundational information necessary for participants to evaluate the opportunities and resources available for starting, growing, or recovering a small business.

Nevada Department of Business & Industry:

The Department of Business and Industry is a cabinet level agency in Nevada State government. Their objective is to encourage and promote the development and growth of business and to ensure the legal operation of business in order to protect consumers by maintaining a fair and competitive regulatory environment.

SCORE Las Vegas:

SCORE is a national non-profit with more than 8,000 certified volunteers nationwide that are highly skilled in business development offering free business mentoring and more for the life of your business. Resource partner of US Small Business Administration.

Office of Small Business Advocacy:

OSBA’s mission is to serve as an advocate for small business owners within state government. In coordination with other state agencies, OSBA will serve as a centralized hub, connecting small business owners to available resources and working to resolve challenges and barriers to access.

Nevada Grow:

NV Grow is a State of Nevada small business initiative customized for Southern Nevada’s existing businesses. Nevada Grow entrepreneurs to essential data, marketing, business intelligence resources and more.

Las Vegas Vet Center:

Offers counseling, confidential help for Veterans, service members, and their families at no cost in a non-medical setting. There are multiple locations in the Las Vegas valley including Henderson.

Harry Reid International Airport:

Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program (DBEP) is designed to promote equal contracting opportunities in construction, professional services, and airport concessions. Firms must be certified as a DBE or ACDBE to participate in these programs.

ENDORSEMENTS AND TESTIMONIALS

The Armed Forces Chamber has earned glowing testimonials from influencers who praise its commitment to empowering veteran-owned businesses and fostering community growth. Influencers highlight the Chamber’s innovative programs, networking events, and impactful advocacy as key reasons for their success. Many commend the Chamber for its professionalism, inclusivity, and dedication to supporting the Armed Forces community. These endorsements underscore the Chamber’s reputation as a trusted resource for veterans and entrepreneurs alike.

Boulder City, Nevada

Former Mayor Kiernan McManus

2019-2022

Boulder City is home to many Veterans who continue their service by making our City a better community. The Armed Forces Chamber of Commerce can be an excellent resource for Veterans to improve businesses they run or to begin new ventures. I thank the Chamber for their efforts in providing the services and support to our Veterans and First Responders.

Henderson, Nevada

Former Mayor Debra March

2017-2023

We’re grateful to the Armed Forces Chamber of Commerce for their efforts to help create, grow and sustain businesses owned by Armed Forces members, and for their advocacy on behalf of our heroes.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Former Mayor Carolyn Goodman

2011-2024

As a proud mother of a retired Marine, it gives me immense pride to see organizations (such as yours) that work for and on behalf of our nation’s heroes and veterans. Please accept my heartfelt appreciation for your ongoing work for those who have so valiantly served our country.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Councilwoman Olivia Diaz

2019-present

The Armed Forces Chamber is a stellar organization and staunch advocate for our military and veteran community in the City of Las Vegas. The Armed Forces Chamber's holistic approach to serving members of our military and their families is truly inspiring. The Mayor, my fellow colleagues, and I work hard every day to ensure that all our residents live comfortably in our community, especially our veterans who sacrificed so much for us to partake in the freedoms that we enjoy. We understand the importance of a roof over our heads, nutritious meals, a healthy body, and a healthy heart. We thank the Armed Forces Chamber for being a steadfast partner in our community. We all know that behind a great organization is great leadership. I'd like to thank Mr. Andre Haynes, CEO and Founder of the Chamber, for having the vision to establish an organization to advocate on behalf of and to empower service members.

Mesquite, Nevada

Former Mayor Al Litman

2014-2025

With the advent of the Armed Forces Chamber of Commerce, our Veterans and First Responders have a voice in the business community. As the Armed Forces Chamber grows, so will the support of our veteran and first responder owned business, providing needed jobs for those leaving the military.

North Las Vegas, Nevada

Former Mayor John Lee

2013-2022

The Armed Forces Chamber of Commerce provides invaluable resources to the men and women who bravely answered the call to serve and lead our nation. The City of North Las Vegas is grateful to the Armed Forces Chamber for supporting our veterans as they transition to civilian life and become leaders in our community through business ownership and entrepreneurship.

ACHIEVEMENTS AND RECOGNITIONS

Armed Forces Chamber of Commerce Day proclaimed on Wednesday, 28 February 2019

In a remarkable show of appreciation and recognition, 28 February has been officially proclaimed as Armed Forces Chamber of Commerce Day by five distinguished mayors across Southern Nevada. This declaration, signed by the mayors of Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite, and North Las Vegas, underscores the profound impact and invaluable contributions of the Armed Forces Chamber of Commerce to our community.

As Armed Forces Chamber of Commerce Day approaches on February 28th, the Armed Forces Chamber invites the community to join in celebrating this significant milestone. Through partnerships, advocacy, and dedicated service, the Chamber continues to pave the way for veteran-owned businesses to achieve success and contribute meaningfully to Southern Nevada's vibrant economic landscape.

MEMBER DIRECTORY

Explore the vibrant community within the Armed Forces Chamber by browsing our Proud Member Directory. Discover a diverse network of businesses and entrepreneurs dedicated to supporting veterans and their families. Whether you're seeking services, partnerships, or simply want to connect with like-minded individuals, our directory showcases a wealth of opportunities. From innovative startups to established enterprises, each member brings unique expertise and a commitment to excellence. Join us in celebrating their contributions and exploring how you can be part of this dynamic network fostering growth and collaboration across our community.