Supporting military nonprofits requires more than just donations or sponsorships; it demands strategic, genuine partnerships that create tangible impacts. For military nonprofits, finding the right corporate partner begins with a thorough understanding of alignment. As Laura Schmiegel, Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at Orion Talent, shared, “It’s about the company’s mission aligning with the nonprofit’s goals. It’s not effective to approach a large national brand without a clear connection or realistic expectation.” Schmiegel advised military nonprofits to start local, targeting companies that have a direct interest in their community impact and values. This alignment builds a foundation where both the nonprofit and business can thrive, each contributing to a shared mission rather than a short-term transaction.

Partnerships also benefit from a genuine commitment to measurable, sustainable outcomes. Robert Yarnall, Vice President of Development and Impact at the Robert Irvine Foundation, noted that the trend is moving away from event sponsorships or one-time gestures. Instead, companies want involvement that allows their employees to engage directly, from volunteering to ongoing support roles that make a difference. “They want to be a true partner with your organization, not just a name on something,” Yarnall explained, underscoring that companies seek partnerships that foster hands-on contributions to veterans’ causes.

Military nonprofits also need to communicate with transparency and honesty to gain and keep corporate trust. Michael “Rob” Rodriguez, CEO of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation and former Army Green Beret, shared that authenticity is essential, saying, “If you approach your mission in a wholesome manner, being honest and vulnerable…then people resonate with that.” For Rodriguez, this means staying true to the organization’s purpose without compromising values, even in the face of potential funding. Companies, too, respond to genuine missions, as they look for organizations that align with their employees’ values and are invested in the community’s well-being.

Rodriguez added a perspective that has resonated with many veterans: “We’re creating a warrior caste. It’s not about sugarcoating the realities veterans face but about supporting them in ways that actually help.” For corporate partners, this means engaging in programs that tackle real issues, like employment, mental health, and long-term recovery, rather than token gestures.

In essence, the most effective partnerships are those where both sides recognize their roles in serving a higher purpose. “It’s not a one-size-fits-all model. What truly matters is finding that alignment and growing it into something meaningful,” said Schmiegel. For corporations, the partnership provides a pathway to real impact; for military nonprofits, it represents a chance to build stronger, lasting support for those who have served.

At MCON, veterans-turned-corporate-leaders Joel Martycz, Kevin Schmiegel, and Chris Skahill converged to discuss the deeper significance of corporate partnerships in veterans’ lives. The insights they shared reveal a new approach to veteran support—one that fosters a culture of ongoing service, camaraderie, and purpose, creating lasting impacts for both veterans and their communities.

Building Purpose and Connection Through Corporate Activations

Corporate brand activations that focus on veteran support do more than generate goodwill; they create a space for veterans to reconnect with a sense of purpose. Many veterans leave service looking for the same values that defined their military lives—service, teamwork, and resilience. Through intentional partnerships, companies are providing veterans with the tools and communities they need to thrive in civilian life.

Programs like those at UnitedHealth Group, for instance, focus on building “connected communities” within the workplace. By encouraging mentorship, training, and resource groups for veterans, companies can create a support network that resonates with veterans’ core values. As Joel Martycz from UnitedHealth Group explained, “We have to educate before we can advocate.” This approach fosters an inclusive environment where veterans feel valued and understood and where they are empowered to lead. Martycz added, “If you’re in a leadership position within your community, you owe it to the community that you support to teach and broaden the circle of people that you advocate within.”

These brand activations go beyond hiring practices. Companies are empowering veterans to lead and find renewed purpose within the corporate setting, seeing them not just as employees but as integral members of the organizational culture.

Community-Centered Brand Activations

Localized engagement is becoming a cornerstone of corporate support for veterans. Brands are realizing the power of community-based actions that allow veterans to serve, connect, and make a tangible impact. Apparel brand 5.11, for example, has turned its retail locations into hubs for community engagement. These stores serve as “outposts” for local outreach, partnering with law enforcement, fire departments, and veteran charities to address immediate needs and foster connections at the grassroots level.

“It’s about cutting out red tape and meeting communities where they are,” shared Chris Skahill of 5.11. Through this approach, veterans can continue their mission-driven lifestyle by making a direct impact in their communities. Whether through coordinating local disaster relief efforts or supporting regional non-profits, these companies are building environments where veterans feel they’re part of something meaningful and valued. “Living a life bigger than yourself,” Skahill said, “is what we encourage at 5.11. And it’s a message that resonates strongly with the veteran community.”

Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurship and Small Businesses

An often-overlooked aspect of corporate veteran support lies in fostering entrepreneurship and small business ownership. Veterans own around 2.5 million small businesses in the United States, which employ millions, underscoring the importance of corporate programs that enable veteran entrepreneurs. Companies are increasingly recognizing the unique leadership skills veterans bring and offering partnerships, funding, and mentorship to help these businesses thrive.

Veterans aren’t simply consumers; they are collaborators in building communities and economies. This collaborative approach underscores a mindset shift, as Kevin Schmiegel of ZeroMils pointed out: “When I ran a nonprofit, I would go into a company and say, ‘My number one goal is to help you make money, to help you drive talent solutions, to help you publicly face in a way where the consumer says, ‘Wow, you’re really altruistic.’” By supporting veteran-owned businesses and providing them with resources to succeed, companies are investing in sustainable support that goes beyond any single campaign or initiative.

The Future of Corporate Veteran Support

The conversation at MCON emphasized that genuine corporate brand activations do more than offer token support. They enable veterans to thrive as individuals and members of a connected community. Through local engagements, holistic corporate programs, and entrepreneurial empowerment, companies are transforming how they support veterans.

This is a new chapter in veteran-corporate relationships—one where veterans are not just recipients but active participants in creating value. As Schmiegel stated, “Veterans aren’t looking for handouts or free parking spots at Walmart. They want the chance to make a meaningful difference, to earn their title every day.” As this approach takes root, the message is clear: corporate support for veterans means creating opportunities for them to continue serving, growing, and thriving in civilian life. And in doing so, these companies are not only building brand loyalty but fostering a culture of resilience and service that benefits everyone.

Recently at MCON, a veteran event in Las Vegas, Brandon Nivens, Navy veteran and Vetforce leader at Salesforce, opened up about his experience. Despite his strong military background, he faced significant mental health challenges when entering the financial world post-service. “I had two nervous breakdowns… I just didn’t think being a credit analyst was for me,” he reflected, highlighting the need for resources and tailored support. Nivens, who ultimately found his calling in a role advocating for veterans, is now using his position to push for better education and resources for veterans transitioning into civilian life. His story resonates with countless veterans who feel unprepared for the stark differences between military and civilian work environments.

Wesley DeMauro, Army veteran and leader at JP Morgan, shared similar insights. His early days in finance came with bouts of imposter syndrome, compounded by a lack of supportive networks. But through a grassroots effort, Wesley and his colleagues created a veterans’ resource group, transforming from a small group in Manhattan to an established organization with over 20,000 members nationwide. “The military does a lot of things well, but the transition… that’s where they struggle,” he admitted, underscoring the need for structured support systems as veterans navigate this challenging time.

The veterans’ stories shared at MCON offered compelling anecdotes about resilience and empowerment. Roger “Doc” Loesch, an Air Force veteran and Emergency Management Specialist with the USDA, pointed out a recurring issue: veterans often give up on their disability claims after a few setbacks. “Most veterans try… but once you hit a brick wall, you throw your hands up and say, ‘Screw it, it’s not worth it,’” he explained. This sentiment is widespread, driven by a combination of bureaucracy and emotional hurdles that prevent veterans from persisting in their pursuit of benefits.

The discussion also highlighted a central theme: the role of family and spouses in the disability benefits journey. Many veterans noted that without their spouses’ encouragement, they might not have followed through with their applications. Nivens credited his spouse’s persistence in pushing him to reapply for benefits, demonstrating the often-unsung role that family members play. Similarly, Loesch discussed the importance of creating inclusive resource groups that extend beyond veterans to include spouses and families, ensuring they also receive the education needed to navigate these systems.

The pride, fear, and guilt that accompany the pursuit of disability benefits are significant barriers. Veterans often fear stigma or feel guilty, believing their issues aren’t “bad enough” to warrant taking resources from others. Breaking down these barriers is crucial, as Wes explained, adding that “connecting veterans with VSOs [Veterans Service Organizations] and educating them on their entitlements are necessary steps for improving accessibility.”

This conversation underscored a hopeful message: educating veterans is key, but ensuring that support systems evolve alongside the needs of new veterans is just as critical. As DeMauro aptly summarized, the “needs of today’s veterans differ from previous generations,” reminding us all that addressing these needs is the collective responsibility of organizations, communities, and policymakers alike. Through shared experiences, unwavering advocacy, and accessible resources, veterans and their families can move closer to a future where the journey toward disability benefits is neither isolating nor insurmountable.

At MCON, a recent gathering of veterans and business leaders, David Reid, a former Army Ranger shared his personal story of resilience and reinvention. Injured on his third deployment, he faced the unexpected challenge of finding new direction outside the military. This led him first to medical school and eventually to launching Terra Arma, a company specializing in compliant uniforms for government contracts. For him, the discipline and mission-focused skills he gained in the military became central to his business. “It’s not just about selling uniforms,” he said. “It’s about building a community and lifting others up.” This value-driven culture is something veteran-owned businesses offer—a focus on the people behind the work as much as the work itself.

Veteran-owned businesses bring a unique ethos to the marketplace, prioritizing collaboration over competition. Veterans are naturally inclined to share best practices, foster strong teams, and support their peers. Reflecting on this, one business owner emphasized at MCON, “If you want to drive diversity, you want to drive inclusion, you want to drive culture in an organization—surround that organization with military personnel.” This deep-seated collaborative spirit brings a refreshing alternative to the traditional corporate culture, which can sometimes feel siloed or self-serving.

Hiring veterans or working with veteran-owned businesses also means a commitment to integrity and accountability. Veterans are trained to give their all and hold themselves to the highest standards. “Our retention rate with veterans is through the roof,” said one executive with years of experience in corporate veteran outreach. “They come in and put in the work—you’ve got to practically kick them out at the end of the day.” This dedication is deeply embedded in veteran-owned businesses, where the drive to meet commitments and uphold a mission-driven work ethic is paramount.

Veteran entrepreneurs also bring with them the military’s “after-action review” mindset—a dedication to improvement, learning, and adaptability. One speaker noted, “Even after a successful project, veterans look at what went well and what could have been done better. It’s about constantly improving, and that resilience is ingrained in them.” This approach, common in veteran-owned companies, ensures that each effort is a step toward excellence.

For companies looking to bridge the gap and support veterans, it’s essential to recognize the adaptability and proactive mindset veterans bring. Veterans are quick learners, trained to solve problems under high-pressure conditions. As one veteran entrepreneur described, “You tell me how to color inside the lines, and I’ll exceed your expectations.” Their solution-oriented approach benefits not only the veteran-owned businesses themselves but also any organization that partners with or hires veterans.

Beyond the individual qualities veterans bring, supporting veteran-owned businesses means investing in a community dedicated to lifting others up. Veteran entrepreneurs view others in their industry as allies rather than competitors, often prioritizing collaborative efforts that drive broader community impact. As one attendee at MCON put it, “In the veteran community, we’re always asking, ‘How can we work together to move that needle a little bit?’” For companies, partnering with veteran-owned businesses brings a wealth of values, teamwork, and fresh perspectives that can create long-lasting impacts on organizational culture.

As awareness of veterans in business grows, so does the understanding that they bring something unique—qualities that many companies invest years and significant resources in cultivating. Supporting veteran-owned businesses isn’t simply about charity; it’s about enriching brands and communities with a sense of mission and resilience that veterans bring naturally. In the end, buying from veteran-owned businesses is a commitment to values that strengthen everyone involved.

Changing the Narrative Around Veterans

For years, public discourse around veterans has often centered on themes of sacrifice, trauma, and struggle. But as Kevin Schmiegel, CEO of ZeroMils, a veteran-focused social enterprise, emphasized at MCON, this narrative is evolving. With veteran unemployment hitting a low of 2.8% last year, many veterans are thriving post-service, contributing significant value to the workplace and community. Companies that understand this shift are seeing a strong return on investment, both financially and culturally.

Veterans bring skills, resilience, and leadership experience that elevate corporate teams. Brands willing to shift the focus from “military-friendly” to “military-thriving” cultures are seeing real results. “Veterans don’t just want a job—they want purpose,” Schmiegel shared. “And companies that provide that purpose benefit immensely.”

A Structured Commitment: Leonardo DRS’ Veteran Support Programs

At Leonardo DRS, veteran support is deeply embedded in the company’s values, and its social responsibility efforts focus on three primary pillars: charitable giving, employee engagement, and active communication. These pillars enable Leonardo DRS to support military families through nonprofit organizations like Fisher House Foundation and Homes for Our Troops. Each nonprofit partner meets a unique need, ensuring that the company’s contributions provide long-term impact.

Carrie Robinson, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Leonardo DRS, spoke at MCON about how the company’s approach to employee engagement and corporate giving fosters a community-driven culture. Through programs like “My Community,” Leonardo DRS employees can volunteer for military service organizations, with the company paying for volunteer time and matching employees’ donations to charities. In addition, their monthly Military Service Organization (MSO) spotlight shines a light on partner nonprofits, raising awareness and driving employee engagement. “This isn’t just a corporate obligation,” Robinson explained. “It’s a way to show our employees and military families that we’re in this together.”

Black Rifle Coffee Company: Community Impact Beyond Coffee

Black Rifle Coffee Company takes a similarly hands-on approach to supporting veterans. With around 70% of its workforce being veterans, Black Rifle’s commitment to veterans is deeply personal. At MCON, Dean Goble, the company’s Director of Philanthropy, shared how Black Rifle’s programs bridge veterans with meaningful opportunities, using philanthropy to bring veterans into supportive, mission-aligned roles.

Goble shared a story of a veteran who, after a combat injury and subsequent amputation, struggled with severe PTSD. Supported by Black Rifle’s community programs, this veteran was able to realize a lifelong dream by standing on a football field during a major game—a moment of healing and empowerment. The story underscores how Black Rifle fosters personal growth among veterans while building a loyal customer base that respects the brand’s mission.

Black Rifle’s work also includes partnering with grassroots nonprofits like Sheep Dog Impact Assistance, which provides essential services to veterans and first responders. Goble emphasized the significance of supporting smaller nonprofits: “These organizations operate at the community level, making real, tangible impacts,” he said. “And by amplifying their voices, we’re helping them grow, too.”

The Economic Impact of Veteran-Friendly Policies

Brands like Leonardo DRS, ZeroMils, and Black Rifle Coffee Company are reaping the rewards of their investments in veterans, and not only in terms of employee loyalty and brand reputation. With the U.S. military consumer market representing $2.1 trillion, companies that prioritize veteran support gain access to a powerful consumer base. Veterans’ skills are also helping to fill critical roles within companies, addressing talent shortages in ways that contribute directly to their growth.

While large companies like Leonardo DRS can offer substantial grants and volunteer programs, smaller businesses can make a similar impact by supporting local initiatives. Robinson encouraged all businesses, regardless of size, to get involved: “You don’t have to be a large company to support veterans. Small actions, like sponsoring a local 5K or hosting an event, can make a difference,” she said.

A Call for Community Engagement

For many companies, fostering a thriving veteran community is more than altruism—it’s about making an investment in the future. Leonardo DRS, ZeroMils, and Black Rifle Coffee demonstrate how a veteran-friendly culture is good business, not only creating positive employee experiences but also strengthening communities. Companies can have an outsized impact by valuing veterans as more than employees—by seeing them as community partners who drive the mission forward.

As veteran support continues to evolve, insights shared at MCON offer an inspiring model of what’s possible when brands and veterans work together to create lasting change. In their commitment to community, purpose, and opportunity, these companies remind us all that bridging the gap between brands and veterans benefits not just veterans but society as a whole.

Financial Preparedness: A Crucial First Step

One of the first hurdles many veterans encounter is financial stability. After years of predictable pay and structured benefits, civilian salaries may come as a surprise. Estefania Villaneuva, a proud Navy veteran and Regional Outreach Manager with Navy Federal Credit Union, understands this challenge firsthand. “Sometimes veterans don’t realize the civilian pay may not always align with their needs,” she said. Many veterans find themselves in roles that don’t initially meet their financial needs, which can create a struggle to make ends meet.

To help veterans avoid these pitfalls, Navy Federal Credit Union encourages proactive financial planning and offers budgeting tools to ease the shift. Estefania emphasizes the importance of setting realistic financial goals based on monthly needs like rent, childcare, and education. “Budgeting isn’t a one-time thing,” she advised. “You have to budget again and again because your needs are always changing.” For Navy Federal, it’s about equipping veterans with a comprehensive understanding of their finances, giving them a foundation for future stability.

Finding a Career Path: More Than a Resume

For many service members, transitioning to the civilian workforce means building a resume and preparing for interviews for the first time. For Sarah Ragone, a representative from Hire Heroes USA and a military spouse, this struggle is all too familiar. When her husband retired from the Air Force after 20 years, he realized he was stepping into uncharted territory. “He didn’t know how to put a resume together or what to wear to an interview,” Sarah shared, recalling how intimidating the civilian job market felt to him initially.

Hire Heroes USA helped bridge the gap by connecting him with a transition specialist, who guided him through creating a civilian-friendly resume, translating military accomplishments into accessible terms, and preparing for interviews. It’s a service they offer to all veterans, working one-on-one to help them highlight skills and experience in ways that resonate with civilian employers. Hire Heroes also provides job-specific mentorship, virtual career fairs, and interview coaching, ensuring that veterans have the confidence and clarity needed to succeed in the civilian world.

Building a Support Network and Finding Mentorship

One of the most profound insights shared at MCON was the importance of mentorship and building a reliable support network. Transitioning veterans often feel isolated, facing the misconception that they must start from scratch to build a civilian career. But finding support can be a game-changer. Estefania, reflecting on her own journey out of the Navy, explained, “I literally had no idea what to do, so I went to my old employer, who kindly took me back in. But it wasn’t a job that met my financial needs.”

Connecting with a mentor, particularly one who has gone through the transition themselves, offers veterans an invaluable guidepost. “Mentors help veterans avoid making the same mistakes,” Estefania said. Mentorship provides veterans not only with guidance but also with validation, showing them that their skills and experiences are valuable in the civilian world.

For those who may not yet have mentors, organizations like Hire Heroes USA provide essential connections to veterans in desired career fields, opening doors to advice and networking opportunities that make all the difference.

Avoiding Predatory Practices

One significant barrier facing many veterans is the proliferation of predatory practices and scams that promise quick career support at a steep cost. Sarah highlighted the importance of vetting services and organizations carefully, stressing that many nonprofits offer high-quality, free support to veterans. “You don’t need to pay hundreds of dollars for a resume,” she urged. “Hire Heroes USA and other nonprofits are here to help, and it’s all free.”

Navy Federal also plays a role in shielding veterans from these predatory agencies by offering free financial resources through their online platform. “Take advantage of the free stuff,” Estefania said. “We have financial education resources available to everyone—not just members.” With reputable organizations providing accessible resources, veterans can avoid unnecessary costs and find genuine, quality assistance.

Growth Beyond the First Job

Securing that first job after service can be a monumental achievement, but it’s often just the beginning of a longer career journey. Many veterans change jobs several times within the first few years as they navigate their new professional paths. “Your first job doesn’t have to be your forever job,” Estefania reminded attendees. She encouraged veterans to seek out professional development opportunities within their new roles, whether through additional certifications or training.

Hire Heroes USA also supports this ongoing growth, with resources for veterans seeking further advancement. “Once you’re a partner with us, you’re a partner for life,” Sarah said. Veterans are encouraged to return for career guidance at any point, ensuring that they can continue building fulfilling and successful careers.

Advice for Those Starting the Journey

For veterans at the beginning of their transition, the advice shared at MCON rings loud and clear: don’t go it alone. The resources are out there, whether through nonprofits, veteran-friendly employers, or dedicated mentors. “Find that tribe of people that’s going to help you,” Sarah advised. With organizations like Navy Federal and Hire Heroes USA championing their success, veterans don’t have to face the uncertainty of civilian life without guidance.

With a bit of planning, support from trusted organizations, and mentorship, veterans can build thriving lives beyond their military service, translating their invaluable skills into rewarding careers. The transition may be challenging, but with the right tools and a strong support system, veterans can continue their journey with confidence and resilience.

Supporting Transition: From Service to Civilian Careers

For veterans, moving from military roles into civilian workplaces often means navigating an unfamiliar landscape. The disciplined leadership and teamwork skills learned in service may not always align neatly with corporate job requirements. Hendricks shared her own story, explaining, “Everyone in the Army told me I could easily be an HR General Manager in the civilian world, but that’s just not a one-to-one translation.” Recognizing this gap, Fiserv developed a hiring model that goes beyond numbers, instead prioritizing quality placements that allow veterans to thrive by matching their skill sets with specific roles within the company.

By partnering with organizations like Hiring Our Heroes, Fiserv is ensuring that the veterans they employ not only fit well but are able to bring their unique experiences into impactful roles. Hendricks explained, “We know that when we hire veterans and military spouses, they bring skills and experiences that others simply don’t have,” adding that the right job fit is key to veterans’ long-term success.

Building a Culture that Celebrates Veteran Strengths

Once in the corporate world, veterans encounter an entirely different culture than the one they left in the military. Hendricks explained that while corporate environments may feel less formal than military hierarchies, there are still unspoken expectations that require adjustment. Veterans are well-positioned for this, she noted, as they’re accustomed to respecting roles and responsibilities and adapting to varying team dynamics. “Veterans often bring adaptability and resilience,” Hendricks pointed out, “and at Fiserv, we try to foster a culture where those strengths are recognized and supported.”

To that end, Fiserv has developed a culture that values veterans’ experiences and actively supports their integration. Their initiatives include a military leave policy and a sponsorship program that benefits veterans and military spouses, recognizing that a strong family support system is critical for veterans’ overall well-being and success.

Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurs

While many veterans transition into civilian careers, others are drawn to the path of entrepreneurship. Fiserv has committed to supporting these aspiring business owners through initiatives like the “Back to Business” program, which provides grants, mentorship, and visibility for veteran-owned businesses. In partnership with the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF), Fiserv has developed local entrepreneurship forums that connect veterans with mentors and resources needed to build successful businesses.

“These events aren’t just about content,” Hendricks emphasized. “They’re about bringing people together, building connections, and creating opportunities for veterans to meet others who can support their goals.” Through these programs, Fiserv is helping veterans develop essential business skills and navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.

A Community of Support and Success

By focusing on both employment and entrepreneurship, companies like Fiserv are helping veterans achieve economic independence and build successful futures. Hendricks reflected on how veterans in the corporate world often support one another, creating a culture of camaraderie and resilience that benefits the entire community. As she explained, “We can hire 1,000 veterans, or we can help 1,000 veterans start and grow their businesses. Either way, we’re amplifying our impact on the military community.”

A Model for Sustainable Veteran Support

Companies supporting veterans in meaningful ways are not only making a difference in individual lives—they’re fostering stronger, more resilient communities. Fiserv’s initiatives demonstrate the transformative impact of a corporate commitment to veterans, from creating supportive workplaces to empowering business ownership. Hendricks’ message at MCON underscored a growing movement in corporate America to support veterans beyond just employment, offering them the tools and connections needed for lasting success in civilian life. Through this multi-dimensional approach, Fiserv and similar organizations are setting a new standard for veteran support, proving that when companies invest in veterans, they enrich their own culture and make a lasting impact on the community.