To explore the full biographies of the individuals shaping the future of American civic observances, visit:
These pages provide deeper insights into their personal histories, philosophies, and the enduring missions they lead.
Read MoreThe idea of investing in America has long animated federal economic policy. The Invest in America Act, part of the broader Biden administration’s Investing in America agenda, seeks to fund massive infrastructure upgrades, including roads, bridges, energy grids, and broadband access. According to house.gov, this Act supports not only modernization, but climate adaptation and job creation.
The seed of NIAW was planted in a legacy of service. NIVW’s founders launched a national observance in 2019 to elevate veteran-owned businesses, receiving federal trademark protection and entry into the U.S. Congressional Record (March 8, 2024). With participation in 19 U.S. states and 21 countries, NIVW quickly grew from symbolic advocacy to a globally syndicated, policy-aligned engine of economic storytelling and brand empowerment.
Read MoreFor the first time in U.S. history, a single family has been honored with four Congressional Record entries, recognizing their groundbreaking contributions to music, business, and veteran advocacy. From Jim Freeman’s legendary impact on doo-wop with In the Still of the Night to Jeff Shuford’s leadership in National Invest In Veterans Week®, their legacy spans generations. With state proclamations from Iowa, South Carolina, Montana, and Oregon, their influence is now cemented at both the federal and state levels, making them one of the most historically significant families in American culture.
Read MoreFor the first time in history, a family’s impact across music, civil rights, business, and veteran advocacy has been recognized in multiple Congressional Record entries. The legacies of Jim Freeman, a founding member of The Five Satins, and Jeff Shuford, co-founder of National Invest In Veterans Week®, now stand immortalized in the official records of the United States Congress.
From doo-wop’s golden era to modern veteran entrepreneurship, their multigenerational achievements represent a rare and historic recognition of cultural and economic influence. Jim Freeman’s timeless hit In the Still of the Night revolutionized American music, while Jeff Shuford’s advocacy continues to reshape veteran business opportunities nationwide. Their family’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and an enduring national impact.
Read MoreNational Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) is making history with the most significant leadership expansion in its existence, bringing together three powerhouse figures from business, law, and culture to drive veteran entrepreneurship, economic expansion, and global influence.
Sherman Williams Jr., the most trademarked veteran beverage entrepreneur in U.S. history, joins as Director of Partnerships.
Jim Freeman, Grammy Hall of Fame inductee and music industry legend, becomes Cultural Advisor.
Dr. Richard S. Freeman, JD, a renowned legal strategist and corporate policymaker, takes on the role of Legal Advisor
The digital age has transformed the way organizations connect with their audiences, especially those dedicated to social advocacy. Among these, National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) stands out as a shining example of how an impactful mission can achieve global recognition through strategic digital engagement. With a focus on empowering veteran entrepreneurs, NIVW is more than just an initiative—it’s a movement that invites communities worldwide to invest in veterans.
Founded by Iraq War veteran Jeff Shuford, NIVW seeks to amplify the voices of veteran-owned businesses and highlight their contributions to the economy. Recognized in the Congressional Record, this week-long event underscores the importance of supporting veterans as they transition to civilian life, with a particular focus on entrepreneurship. The phrase “Invest in Veterans” encapsulates the organization’s core belief: investing in the potential of veterans is investing in the future of our global economy and society.
Read MoreNational Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) is more than just an annual celebration; it is a nationwide movement dedicated to honoring the contributions of veteran-owned businesses to the U.S. economy and empowering veterans and their families with tools, resources, and opportunities to succeed. Taking place every March, NIVW serves as a powerful platform for fostering entrepreneurship, innovation, and professional growth within the veteran community.
From inspiring keynote speeches by trailblazing entrepreneurs to interactive workshops and networking events, National Invest In Veterans Week® brings together a diverse lineup of speakers, industry experts, and organizations committed to investing in the success of veterans. This celebration highlights the unique skills, experiences, and resilience veterans bring to the table, ensuring they are recognized as vital contributors to our nation's economic and social fabric.
Read MoreChairman Brian Mast’s extraordinary journey from the battlefield to Congress reflects his unwavering commitment to service and leadership. As the Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and a staunch advocate for veteran entrepreneurship, Mast’s efforts are reshaping how the nation empowers its veterans.
Through initiatives like National Invest in Veterans Week® (March 1-7) and groundbreaking proposals like the Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act, Mast champions the integration of veterans into the economy as entrepreneurs, leaders, and innovators. These efforts aim to address systemic challenges and provide veterans with tools for success in an ever-evolving economic landscape.
Read MoreNational Invest in Veterans Week® (NIVW) has redefined veteran entrepreneurship by expanding into 62 global markets, creating an interconnected ecosystem of mentorship, funding, and international business opportunities. Through innovative platforms like π.digital and tailored initiatives like FeMil℠, NIVW empowers veterans to overcome systemic barriers and thrive as global business leaders. Unlike single-week events like NVSBW, NIVW provides year-round support, legislative advocacy, and a global vision to elevate veteran-owned businesses.
Read MoreVeterans are a cornerstone of resilience and leadership in society, yet many face challenges transitioning to civilian life. By investing in veterans through targeted legislation, financial tools, and comprehensive programs like National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), we can unlock their potential to drive innovation, create jobs, and strengthen the economy. Key initiatives include the Investing in VETS Act, which provides tax incentives for hiring veterans, and programs like FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠, which support female veteran entrepreneurs. Additionally, public-private partnerships and tools such as retirement plans and Veteran Saves Pledge empower veterans financially.
Read MoreThis article explores challenges like access to capital and mentorship, while showcasing solutions like FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠. It urges policymakers to support transformative proposals like the Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act, which could pave the way for sustainable growth and innovation in veteran-led businesses.
Discover how collaborative efforts are shaping a more inclusive entrepreneurial landscape for veterans.
Read MoreLook deeper into the transformative vision of the Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act and explore how it empowers veteran entrepreneurs nationwide. Join the movement and help shape a future where veterans lead innovation and economic growth!
Read MoreExplore how National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) is transforming veteran advocacy and entrepreneurship across 62 global markets. From its innovative use of technology to its expansion into state-specific and international platforms, NIVW is setting new benchmarks for empowering veteran entrepreneurs worldwide.
Read MoreKevin D. Shoun is a name synonymous with transformation, leadership, and impact in the realm of veteran advocacy. Appointed as the Senior Advisor for Civic Leadership and Policy Development at National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW®), Kevin is tasked with creating and overseeing policies that extend across 62 platforms globally. His contributions are reshaping how veterans access economic opportunities, mental health resources, and entrepreneurial tools while building systems that empower their success for generations.
Read MoreNational Invest In Veterans Week®: A Global Movement Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurs into the Future in 62 Markets far surpassing the Reach of the Department of Veteran Affairs.
Read MoreThe recognition by New York Life Investments extends beyond visibility—it positions National Invest In Veterans Week® as a leader in veteran advocacy and economic empowerment. The feature invites corporations, organizations, and individuals to align with the organization’s mission by providing actionable pathways for engagement.
Read More"The Pledge to Invest in Veteran Businesses℠" is more than an initiative; it’s a movement driven by the unwavering leadership of Angel Shuford. By aligning action with purpose, this pledge is setting a new standard for how we support and celebrate veteran entrepreneurs.
Read MoreAngel Shuford’s appointment as Vice President and CFO of National Invest In Veterans Week® marks a new chapter in the organization’s mission to empower veterans. Her leadership, vision, and dedication are transforming the way the world honors and supports those who have served.
As we look forward to the next National Invest In Veterans Week® and International Veterans Day, the call to action is clear: join this movement to celebrate and invest in the courage, resilience, and contributions of veterans everywhere.
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