VWEC invites you to join us as we continue our Money Mondays: Financial Basics for You & Your Business. This 9-week hybrid series is designed to empower small business owners to effectively address both their personal and business finances, garnering an understanding of the need for proper management/separation of both as well as the potential to build wealth for themselves, while accessing and maintaining capital for their business.

VWEC understands the challenges faced by small business owners to grow their business; which often times, results in overlooking or literally disregarding personal financial goals. The truth of the matters is for many small business owners your personal finances play a critical role in access to capital.

Most people are working to live; not living to work. Positioning your finances; both personal and business, will allow you to create and maintain a balanced life, where you can enjoy your finances with confidence you’re prepared for an emergency, building an appropriate pool of funds for healthcare, personal development, celebrations, vacations, and retirement.

In partnership with the National Financial Literacy Campaign

Series Agenda:

Banking Basics for You & Your Business Comerica BusinessHQ - White Rock (In-person Seating is limited)

• Building Savings & Wealth - February 24th

• Increase Cash Flow & Manage Debt - March 3rd

• Preparing with Proper Protection - March 10th

• Your Health & Wealth - March 17th

• Understanding Asset Accumulation Strategies - Money Monday - March 24th

• Credit Analysis the Connection between You & Your Business - March 31st

• Fulfilling Long-Term Goals - April 7th

• Designing Your Financial Strategy - April 14th

• Securing Your Financial Partners - April 21th

We’re Back—And You’re Invited!

Join VWEC as we Connect, Collaborate & Celebrateentrepreneurial women associated with the military from across the nation!

Last year, we kicked off our tour during National Small Business Week in New York City, then engaged Veteran Women Entrepreneurs in Pasadena, Houston, and Atlanta—connecting with 700+ entrepreneurs and gaining invaluable insights.

Our impact was so powerful that we’ve been invited back in 2025—this time with a booth AND a live workshop in every city!

Join VWEC at one of America’s BIGGEST business-to-business trade shows, conferences & networking events of the year. The Small Business Expo is your gateway to resources, mentorship, and connections to take your business to the next level.

CONNECT, COLLABORATE & CELEBRATE🎉

For seven years, the Veteran Women’s Enterprise Center (VWEC) has witnessed the dynamic evolution of entrepreneurship—both in our communities and across the nation.

As a national initiative, VWEC is dedicated to empowering entrepreneurial women associated with the military—including veterans, active duty, reservists, and military spouses—empowering them to scale their businesses and achieve lasting success.

Unlock Your Business’s Full Potential with VWEC!

At VWEC, our specialized programs are designed to support both emerging and established businesses, equipping entrepreneurs with the strategic growth strategies they need to scale successfully.

We’ve identified a critical gap in business growth—one that prevents many entrepreneurs from:

• Leveraging mergers & acquisitions for expansion

• Exploring international trade to reach global markets

• Understanding their business’s true value for smarter decision-making

• Developing growth plans that align with their personal and professional vision of success

VWEC is here to bridge that gap and empower entrepreneurs with the knowledge, tools, and connections to elevate their business to the next level.

Are YOU ready to grow strategically?

Join VWEC for our Navigating the Nation: 2025 Small Business Expo Tour

We’re strengthening our nationwide network of entrepreneurial women associated with the military—from startups to multimillion-dollar enterprises. Don't miss this opportunity to connect, collaborate, and build camaraderie with your sisters-in-arms at one of our upcoming stops.

📍 Washington, D.C. | March 27 | Charles E. Smith Center

📍 Columbus, OH | May 21 | Ohio Expo Center

📍 Chicago, IL | June 4 | Isadore and Sadie Dorin Forum

📍 Dallas, TX | November 19 | Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, Hall C

Ready to take your business to the next level?

Whether you're launching a startup or scaling a multi-million-dollar enterprise, sustained success in today’s fast-evolving market requires a strategic growth plan. Join us for Strategic Growth: Six Strategies to Successfully Scale Your Business, where you'll discover proven methods to drive measurable value—not just to your bottom line, but to your customers, employees, and stakeholders.

This is your opportunity to position yourself as an industry leader and achieve long-term, sustainable growth.

At VWEC, our vision is clear: to position entrepreneurial women associated with the military as our nation’s leading revenue generators and employers by 2030.

#BusinessGrowth #WomenEntrepreneurs #VWEC #StrategicSuccess #MilitaryConnected #ScaleUp #GetConnected #VWEC #WomenEntrepreneurs #MilitaryConnected #SmallBusinessExpo #Networking #BusinessGrowth

VWEC invites you to join us as we continue our Money Mondays: Financial Basics for You & Your Business. This 9-week hybrid series is designed to empower small business owners to effectively address both their personal and business finances, garnering an understanding of the need for proper management/separation of both as well as the potential to build wealth for themselves, while accessing and maintaining capital for their business.

VWEC understands the challenges faced by small business owners to grow their business; which often times, results in overlooking or literally disregarding personal financial goals. The truth of the matters is for many small business owners your personal finances play a critical role in access to capital.

Most people are working to live; not living to work. Positioning your finances; both personal and business, will allow you to create and maintain a balanced life, where you can enjoy your finances with confidence you’re prepared for an emergency, building an appropriate pool of funds for healthcare, personal development, celebrations, vacations, and retirement.

In partnership with the National Financial Literacy Campaign

Series Agenda:

Banking Basics for You & Your Business Comerica BusinessHQ - White Rock (In-person Seating is limited)

• Building Savings & Wealth - February 24th

• Increase Cash Flow & Manage Debt - March 3rd

• Preparing with Proper Protection -March 10th

• Your Health & Wealth - March 17th

• Understanding Asset Accumulation Strategies - March 24th

  This workshop entails the following:

  • Accumulating Wealth and the COST OF WAITING

  • Looking at HISTORICAL returns, AVERAGE returns, and YOUR returns

  • Strategies and MINIMIZING RISK

• Credit Analysis the Connection between You & Your Business - March 31st

• Fulfilling Long-Term Goals - April 7th

• Designing Your Financial Strategy - April 14th

• Securing Your Financial Partners - April 21th

VWEC is excited to kick off our partnership with AEO celebrating Women’s History Month with our CEO, VR Small  joining a stellar panel in AEO’s Equity and Opportunity for All series on March 19th. This virtual event will bring together leaders, advocates, and experts to spotlight the resilience and contributions of women entrepreneurs and to explore how we can build a more inclusive small business ecosystem.

We invite you to join VWEC for what promises to be a dynamic conversation.

Secure you spot here: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2lRSp8MCSAy9xPGXvGXzWQ

During this event, AEO will share their latest Women Business Ownership Fact Sheet, which highlights the dynamic and powerful contributions of women entrepreneurs across the nation. Women-owned businesses continue to drive innovation, create jobs, and contribute more than $2.5 trillion annually to the U.S. economy. Their fact sheet underscores the resilience and impact of women entrepreneurs, as well as the opportunities for continued support and growth. VWEC is proud to partner with AEO, as they remain committed to advocating for expanded access to resources that empower all entrepreneurs to succeed.

During the Equity and Opportunity for All webinar, EmpowerHer: Women Shaping the Future of Business. AEO will dive deeper into the insights from the fact sheet, addressing the unique challenges women business owners face and exploring the opportunities ahead. This webinar will provide a platform to discuss how we can all collaborate to ensure that women entrepreneurs have equitable access to the resources and support necessary for their continued success.

VWEC invites you to join us as we continue our Money Mondays: Financial Basics for You & Your Business. This 9-week hybrid series is designed to empower small business owners to effectively address both their personal and business finances, garnering an understanding of the need for proper management/separation of both as well as the potential to build wealth for themselves, while accessing/maintaining capital for their business.

VWEC understands the challenges faced by small business owners to grow their business; which often times, results in overlooking or literally disregarding personal financial goals. The truth of the matters is for many small business owners your personal finances play a critical role in access to capital.

Most people are working to live; not living to work. Positioning your finances; both personal and business, will allow you to create and maintain a balanced life, where you can enjoy your finances with confidence you’re prepared for an emergency, building an appropriate pool of funds for healthcare, personal development, celebrations, vacations, and retirement.

In partnership with the National Financial Literacy Campaign

Series Agenda:

Banking Basics for You & Your Business Comerica BusinessHQ - White Rock (In-person Seating is limited)

• Building Savings & Wealth - February 24th

• Increase Cash Flow & Manage Debt - March 3rd

• Preparing with Proper Protection - March 10th

• Your Health & Wealth - March 17th

  This workshop entails the following:

  • The Financial importance and impact of HEALTH

  • Strategies to TRANSFER, and PRESERVE your WEALTH

  • Ensuring that your LAST WISHES are prepared and carried out

  • Understanding the inevitability and impact of MEDICAL EXPENSES

• Understanding Asset Accumulation Strategies - March 24th

• Credit Analysis the Connection between You & Your Business - March 31st

• Fulfilling Long-Term Goals - April 7th

• Designing Your Financial Strategy - April 14th

• Securing Your Financial Partners - April 21th

VWEC invites you to join us at Money Mondays: Financial Basics for You & Your Business. This 9-week hybrid series is designed to empower small business owners to effectively address both their personal and business finances, garnering an understanding of the need for proper management/separation of both as well as the potential to build wealth for themselves, while accessing/maintaining capital for their business.

VWEC understands the challenges faced by small business owners to grow their business; which often times, results in overlooking or literally disregarding personal financial goals. The truth of the matters is for many small business owners your personal finances play a critical role in access to capital.

Most people are working to live; not living to work. Positioning your finances; both personal and business, will allow you to create and maintain a balanced life, where you can enjoy your finances with confidence you’re prepared for an emergency, building an appropriate pool of funds for healthcare, personal development, celebrations, vacations, and retirement.

In partnership with the National Financial Literacy Campaign

Series Agenda:

Banking Basics for You & Your Business Comerica BusinessHQ - White Rock (In-person Seating is limited)

• Building Savings & Wealth - February 24th

• Increase Cash Flow & Manage Debt - March 3rd

• Preparing with Proper Protection - March 10th

  This workshop entails the following:

  • The X-CURVE concept

  • Why PROPER PROTECTION is the Foundation

  • The Value of properly protecting your ASSETS & LIABILITIES

  • How this benefits your overall FINANCIAL STRATEGY

  • Most common QUESTIONS & MISTAKES

• Your Health & Wealth - March 17th

• Understanding Asset Accumulation Strategies - March 24th

• Credit Analysis the Connection between You & Your Business - March 31st

• Fulfilling Long-Term Goals - April 7th

• Designing Your Financial Strategy - April 14th

• Securing Your Financial Partners - April 21th

Join VWEC as we celebrate International Women's Day at the 9th Annual Women’s Wealth Symposium honoring our CEO, VR Small, as one of four Prestigious Purple Diamond Award Winners

The Purple Diamond Award, honors a qualified exceptional individual in recognition of her service to the community and to the Women's Symposium mission.

We recognize there are many women in leadership who work tirelessly to significantly and positively impact women's lives, and we honor them at the Women's Wealth Symposium!

Strengthening the lives of all women matters, and we acknowledge and honor the women who give selflessly to equip and empower women in advancing their financial health.

On March 8, 2025, collectively we embark on a mission designed to equip women with the skills, knowledge, and resources they need to gain more financial confidence, overcome any challenges, and work towards greater financial independence.

The symposium offers a dynamic program of presentations, workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, all aimed at equipping participants with the tools and knowledge they need to achieve financial independence.

Attendees will walk away with practical insights, actionable strategies, and the confidence to make an even greater impact in their personal and professional lives.

Since 2021, the Women's Wealth Symposium has reached a worldwide audience by livestreaming the event globally. By offering women the opportunity to participate in the live streamed event, the symposium can reach and positively impact women around the world, increasing their financial knowledge, insight, and potential.

The Women's Wealth Symposium is presented by Bank of America, as part of its work to advance the financial wellbeing of women. "Uplifting and empowering women at every step of their financial journey is a core focus of our work at Bank of America. From personal and family financial planning to access to capital and resources for women entrepreneurs, we pride ourselves on being an open, accessible banking partner. We see this commitment reflected in LeadHERship Global's mission, making our sponsorship of the Women's Wealth Symposium a natural fit," said Jennifer Chandler, president, Bank of America Dallas.

The event will include a full day of educational sessions followed by an awards ceremony. The awards ceremony will celebrate the prestigious Purple Diamond Award winners, recognizing women leaders who have made outstanding contributions to financial education, leadership, and community impact. Strengthening the lives of all women matters, and we acknowledge and honor the women who give selflessly to equip and empower women in advancing their financial health.

For more information about the Purple Diamond Awards, event schedule, and registration, please visit the LeadHERship Global event page at LeadHERshipGlobal.com/WWS-Event.

The VWEC Team is thrilled to announce that our CEO, VR Small will be named this year's Dallas Mavericks Unsung Hero at their 4th Annual Women’s Symposium.

We are grateful to the Dallas Mavericks W.O.M.E.N. (Women of the Mavs Empowering Network) ERG for selecting our CEO for this award.

It's so inspiring to know the work we do at VWEC is seen, appreciated, and recognized for our impact with female veteran entrepreneurs and the general small business community.

All of us at the VWEC are so honored to be able to serve those who have served our nation.

We're excited to kick off Women’s History Month at this incredible event, which aligns perfectly with VWEC’s mission. This year’s theme, "empowerHER: Leading with Purpose," speaks directly to our commitment to uplifting and supporting women veterans and small business owners.

The 4th Annual Women’s Symposium will feature a fireside chat moderated by former Dallas Mavericks CEO Cynt Marshall, engaging panel discussions, and an inspiring lineup of distinguished guests. Join us on March 4th at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science for this empowering experience!

#GetConnected #empowerHER #DallasMavericks #WomensSymposium #Dallas #WomensHistoryMonth #unsunghero

VWEC invites you to join us at Money Mondays: Financial Basics for You & Your Business. This 9-week hybrid series is designed to empower small business owners to effectively address both their personal and business finances, garnering an understanding of the need for proper management/separation of both as well as the potential to build wealth for themselves, while accessing/maintaining capital for their business.

VWEC understands the challenges faced by small business owners to grow their business; which often times, results in overlooking or literally disregarding personal financial goals. The truth of the matters is for many small business owners your personal finances play a critical role in access to capital.

Most people are working to live; not living to work. Positioning your finances; both personal and business, will allow you to create and maintain a balanced life, where you can enjoy your finances with confidence you’re prepared for an emergency, building an appropriate pool of funds for healthcare, personal development, celebrations, vacations, and retirement.

In partnership with the National Financial Literacy Campaign

Series Agenda:

Banking Basics for You & Your Business Comerica BusinessHQ - White Rock (In-person Seating is limited)

• Building Savings & Wealth - February 24th

• Increase Cash Flow & Manage Debt - Money Monday - March 3rd

  This workshop will teach the following:

  • Find out WHERE YOUR MONEY IS GOING

  • Build a real plan to be DEBT FREE FASTER

  • How to INCREASE CASH FLOW

• Preparing with Proper Protection - March 10th

• Your Health & Wealth - March 17th

• Understanding Asset Accumulation Strategies - March 24th

• Credit Analysis the Connection between You & Your Business - March 31st

• Fulfilling Long-Term Goals - Money Monday - April 7th

• Designing Your Financial Strategy - April 14th

• Securing Your Financial Partners - April 21th

2025 NLBT TOUR & OVERVIEW SESSIONS

The NLBT Cohort is designed to empower entrepreneur women associated with the military—whether veterans, active duty, or reservists—to successfully scale their businesses. This year, we’re excited to announce that the NLBT Cohort grant has doubled from $5,000 to $10,000, with two bi-monthly pitch events where fellows can access funding to implement their business transformation strategies.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Applicants must have served in the military in any capacity (proof of service required).

• This program is specifically for business owners with established businesses that are already generating revenue.

Program Expectations: To be eligible, business owners must be committed to:

1. Developing a Strategic Growth Plan for the 6-month program.

2. Using the coworking space provided by the program, which includes a free dedicated desk.

3. Attending weekly business development sessions at the VWEC and providing evaluations.

4. Participating in regular one-on-one mentoring and offering feedback on those sessions.

5. Engaging in bi-monthly Saturday B2B Development Sessions, with evaluations to track progress.

6. Actively applying business development training to meet projected strategic growth goals.

7. Focusing on increasing revenue and exploring workforce development opportunities during the program.

Exclusive Opportunities for Fellows:

• The grant for fellows has increased to $10,000 in 2025;

• 50% of the grant will be available during the program to implement approved transformation strategies.

• The remaining funds will be awarded based on performance, following a weighted system and the outcome of the final pitch presentation.

• Fellows will also receive support to complete SBA certifications and other relevant certifications for their business.

Program Outcomes: By the end of the program, fellows will have:

• Updated or created Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• A 3- to 5-year Strategic Growth Plan to ensure continued growth and sustainability.

REGISTER NOW: Attend a Mandatory Tour & Overview Session!

Potential fellows must attend a mandatory tour of the VWEC coworking space and an overview session to ensure the program is a good fit. If you're a strong match, you will be invited to submit an application.

Pitch events will take place in March, so don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity!

2025 NLBT TOUR & OVERVIEW SESSIONS

To empower entrepreneur women associated with military (inclusive of veterans, active duty and reservists) to successsfully scale. This year’s NLBT Cohort grant has doubled from $5K to $10K, with two bi-monthly pitches to access funds to implement their business transformation strategies.

All potential fellows must have served in some capacity in the military and provide proof of the same.

This program is designed for business owners with an established business, currently generating revenues. Business Owners must be willing to:

• Develop a Strategic Growth Plan for the 6-month program;

• Actively utilize the coworking space provded via the program, which includes a free dedicated desk;

• Attend weekly business development sessions onsite at the VWEC and provide an evaluation of the same;

• Participate in regular one-on-one mentoring and evaluation of the same;

• Participate in bi-monthly Saturday B2B Development Sessions and evaluation of the same;

• Aggresively apply business development training to achieve projected strategic growth outcomes;

• Focus on increased revenue generation and potential workforce development during the program;

Exclusive Opportunities :

Fellows grants have doubled, and in 2025 they can earn up to a total of $10,000.

• Half of the grant will be available during the program to implement approved transformation strategies.

• The final portion will be distributed upon completion of points earned based via the weighted system, and their program outcome pitch.

• Fellow will be assistance with the completion of SBA and other certifications, where appropriate for their business.

• OUTCOMES: Fellow will leave the program with updated/established SOPs; and a 3/5 year Strategic Growth Plan to sustain their continued growth.

REGISTER TO ATTEND A MANDATORY TOUR & OVERVIEW SESSION

Potential Fellows must attend a madatory tour of the VWEC coworking space, and overview session to ensure they are a good match for the program.

If appropriate, candidates will received an invitation to submit an application. Applicants will pitch in March for available slots. The NLBT Cohort will officially begin April 2, 2025.

VWEC invites you to join us at Money Mondays: Financial Basics for You & Your Business. This 9-week hybrid series is designed to empower small business owners to effectively address both their personal and business finances, garnering an understanding of the need for proper management/separation of both as well as the potential to build wealth for themselves, while accessing/maintaining capital for their business.

VWEC understands the challenges faced by small business owners to grow their business; which often times, results in overlooking or literally disregarding personal financial goals. The truth of the matters is for many small business owners your personal finances play a critical role in access to capital.

Most people are working to live; not living to work. Positioning your finances; both personal and business, will allow you to create and maintain a balanced life, where you can enjoy your finances with confidence you’re prepared for an emergency, building an appropriate pool of funds for healthcare, personal development, celebrations, vacations, and retirement.

In partnership with the National Financial Literacy Campaign

Series Agenda:

Banking Basics for You & Your Business Comerica BusinessHQ - White Rock (In-person Seating is limited)

• Building Savings & Wealth - Money Monday - February 24th

  This workshop entails the following:

  • Identifying your GOALS.

  • The FINANCIAL FOUNDATION mindset.

  • What is the WEALTH FORMULA, and how will it help you?

  • Comprehend the effects of TIME and INFLATION on your assets.

• Increase Cash Flow & Manage Debt - March 3rd

• Preparing with Proper Protection - March 10th

• Your Health & Wealth - March 17th

• Understanding Asset Accumulation Strategies - March 24th

• Credit Analysis the Connection between You & Your Business - March 31st

• Fulfilling Long-Term Goals - April 7th

• Designing Your Financial Strategy - April 14th

• Securing Your Financial Partners - April 21th

2025 NLBT TOUR & OVERVIEW SESSIONS

The NLBT Cohort is designed to empower entrepreneur women associated with the military—whether veterans, active duty, or reservists—to successfully scale their businesses. This year, we’re excited to announce that the NLBT Cohort grant has doubled from $5,000 to $10,000, with two bi-monthly pitch events where fellows can access funding to implement their business transformation strategies.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Applicants must have served in the military in any capacity (proof of service required).

• This program is specifically for business owners with established businesses that are already generating revenue.

Program Expectations: To be eligible, business owners must be committed to:

1. Developing a Strategic Growth Plan for the 6-month program.

2. Using the coworking space provided by the program, which includes a free dedicated desk.

3. Attending weekly business development sessions at the VWEC and providing evaluations.

4. Participating in regular one-on-one mentoring and offering feedback on those sessions.

5. Engaging in bi-monthly Saturday B2B Development Sessions, with evaluations to track progress.

6. Actively applying business development training to meet projected strategic growth goals.

7. Focusing on increasing revenue and exploring workforce development opportunities during the program.

Exclusive Opportunities for Fellows:

• The grant for fellows has increased to $10,000 in 2025;

• 50% of the grant will be available during the program to implement approved transformation strategies.

• The remaining funds will be awarded based on performance, following a weighted system and the outcome of the final pitch presentation.

• Fellows will also receive support to complete SBA certifications and other relevant certifications for their business.

Program Outcomes: By the end of the program, fellows will have:

• Updated or created Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• A 3- to 5-year Strategic Growth Plan to ensure continued growth and sustainability.

REGISTER NOW: Attend a Mandatory Tour & Overview Session!

Potential fellows must attend a mandatory tour of the VWEC coworking space and an overview session to ensure the program is a good fit. If you're a strong match, you will be invited to submit an application.

Pitch events will take place in March, so don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity!

The ABCC Veterans Brunch is the most effective platform ABCC has to help key Veterans and Veterans Resource Groups Meet & Exceed the needs of today's active-duty Military & Veterans.

Brunch will be served buffet-style by Cooper's Bar & Grill staff on Saturday, February 22nd from 11:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M. at Cooper's Bar & Grill, 3610 S Cooper St #120,#120, Arlington, TX 76015.

ABCC guarantees this will be an elite networking event benefitting Veterans, Corporate Executives, & established Community Leaders.

Cost: $25.00 per person. Civilians & non-Veterans welcomed & encouraged to attend & support.

To RSVP: bit.ly/ABCCVetsBrunch25Q1

2025 NLBT TOUR & OVERVIEW SESSIONS

The NLBT Cohort is designed to empower entrepreneur women associated with the military—whether veterans, active duty, or reservists—to successfully scale their businesses. This year, we’re excited to announce that the NLBT Cohort grant has doubled from $5,000 to $10,000, with two bi-monthly pitch events where fellows can access funding to implement their business transformation strategies.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Applicants must have served in the military in any capacity (proof of service required).

• This program is specifically for business owners with established businesses that are already generating revenue.

Program Expectations: To be eligible, business owners must be committed to:

1. Developing a Strategic Growth Plan for the 6-month program.

2. Using the coworking space provided by the program, which includes a free dedicated desk.

3. Attending weekly business development sessions at the VWEC and providing evaluations.

4. Participating in regular one-on-one mentoring and offering feedback on those sessions.

5. Engaging in bi-monthly Saturday B2B Development Sessions, with evaluations to track progress.

6. Actively applying business development training to meet projected strategic growth goals.

7. Focusing on increasing revenue and exploring workforce development opportunities during the program.

Exclusive Opportunities for Fellows:

• The grant for fellows has increased to $10,000 in 2025;

• 50% of the grant will be available during the program to implement approved transformation strategies.

• The remaining funds will be awarded based on performance, following a weighted system and the outcome of the final pitch presentation.

• Fellows will also receive support to complete SBA certifications and other relevant certifications for their business.

Program Outcomes: By the end of the program, fellows will have:

• Updated or created Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• A 3- to 5-year Strategic Growth Plan to ensure continued growth and sustainability.

REGISTER NOW: Attend a Mandatory Tour & Overview Session!

Potential fellows must attend a mandatory tour of the VWEC coworking space and an overview session to ensure the program is a good fit. If you're a strong match, you will be invited to submit an application.

Pitch events will take place in March, so don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity!

2025 NLBT TOUR & OVERVIEW SESSIONS

The NLBT Cohort is designed to empower entrepreneur women associated with the military—whether veterans, active duty, or reservists—to successfully scale their businesses. This year, we’re excited to announce that the NLBT Cohort grant has doubled from $5,000 to $10,000, with two bi-monthly pitch events where fellows can access funding to implement their business transformation strategies.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Applicants must have served in the military in any capacity (proof of service required).

• This program is specifically for business owners with established businesses that are already generating revenue.

Program Expectations: To be eligible, business owners must be committed to:

1. Developing a Strategic Growth Plan for the 6-month program.

2. Using the coworking space provided by the program, which includes a free dedicated desk.

3. Attending weekly business development sessions at the VWEC and providing evaluations.

4. Participating in regular one-on-one mentoring and offering feedback on those sessions.

5. Engaging in bi-monthly Saturday B2B Development Sessions, with evaluations to track progress.

6. Actively applying business development training to meet projected strategic growth goals.

7. Focusing on increasing revenue and exploring workforce development opportunities during the program.

Exclusive Opportunities for Fellows:

• The grant for fellows has increased to $10,000 in 2025;

• 50% of the grant will be available during the program to implement approved transformation strategies.

• The remaining funds will be awarded based on performance, following a weighted system and the outcome of the final pitch presentation.

• Fellows will also receive support to complete SBA certifications and other relevant certifications for their business.

Program Outcomes: By the end of the program, fellows will have:

• Updated or created Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• A 3- to 5-year Strategic Growth Plan to ensure continued growth and sustainability.

REGISTER NOW: Attend a Mandatory Tour & Overview Session!

Potential fellows must attend a mandatory tour of the VWEC coworking space and an overview session to ensure the program is a good fit. If you're a strong match, you will be invited to submit an application.

Pitch events will take place in March, so don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity!

2025 NLBT TOUR & OVERVIEW SESSIONS

The NLBT Cohort is designed to empower entrepreneur women associated with the military—whether veterans, active duty, or reservists—to successfully scale their businesses. This year, we’re excited to announce that the NLBT Cohort grant has doubled from $5,000 to $10,000, with two bi-monthly pitch events where fellows can access funding to implement their business transformation strategies.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Applicants must have served in the military in any capacity (proof of service required).

• This program is specifically for business owners with established businesses that are already generating revenue.

Program Expectations: To be eligible, business owners must be committed to:

1. Developing a Strategic Growth Plan for the 6-month program.

2. Using the coworking space provided by the program, which includes a free dedicated desk.

3. Attending weekly business development sessions at the VWEC and providing evaluations.

4. Participating in regular one-on-one mentoring and offering feedback on those sessions.

5. Engaging in bi-monthly Saturday B2B Development Sessions, with evaluations to track progress.

6. Actively applying business development training to meet projected strategic growth goals.

7. Focusing on increasing revenue and exploring workforce development opportunities during the program.

Exclusive Opportunities for Fellows:

• The grant for fellows has increased to $10,000 in 2025;

• 50% of the grant will be available during the program to implement approved transformation strategies.

• The remaining funds will be awarded based on performance, following a weighted system and the outcome of the final pitch presentation.

• Fellows will also receive support to complete SBA certifications and other relevant certifications for their business.

Program Outcomes: By the end of the program, fellows will have:

• Updated or created Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• A 3- to 5-year Strategic Growth Plan to ensure continued growth and sustainability.

REGISTER NOW: Attend a Mandatory Tour & Overview Session!

Potential fellows must attend a mandatory tour of the VWEC coworking space and an overview session to ensure the program is a good fit. If you're a strong match, you will be invited to submit an application.

Pitch events will take place in March, so don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity!

2025 NLBT TOUR & OVERVIEW SESSIONS

The NLBT Cohort is designed to empower entrepreneur women associated with the military—whether veterans, active duty, or reservists—to successfully scale their businesses. This year, we’re excited to announce that the NLBT Cohort grant has doubled from $5,000 to $10,000, with two bi-monthly pitch events where fellows can access funding to implement their business transformation strategies.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Applicants must have served in the military in any capacity (proof of service required).

• This program is specifically for business owners with established businesses that are already generating revenue.

Program Expectations: To be eligible, business owners must be committed to:

1. Developing a Strategic Growth Plan for the 6-month program.

2. Using the coworking space provided by the program, which includes a free dedicated desk.

3. Attending weekly business development sessions at the VWEC and providing evaluations.

4. Participating in regular one-on-one mentoring and offering feedback on those sessions.

5. Engaging in bi-monthly Saturday B2B Development Sessions, with evaluations to track progress.

6. Actively applying business development training to meet projected strategic growth goals.

7. Focusing on increasing revenue and exploring workforce development opportunities during the program.

Exclusive Opportunities for Fellows:

• The grant for fellows has increased to $10,000 in 2025;

• 50% of the grant will be available during the program to implement approved transformation strategies.

• The remaining funds will be awarded based on performance, following a weighted system and the outcome of the final pitch presentation.

• Fellows will also receive support to complete SBA certifications and other relevant certifications for their business.

Program Outcomes: By the end of the program, fellows will have:

• Updated or created Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• A 3- to 5-year Strategic Growth Plan to ensure continued growth and sustainability.

REGISTER NOW: Attend a Mandatory Tour & Overview Session!

Potential fellows must attend a mandatory tour of the VWEC coworking space and an overview session to ensure the program is a good fit. If you're a strong match, you will be invited to submit an application.

Pitch events will take place in March, so don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity!

2025 NLBT TOUR & OVERVIEW SESSIONS

The NLBT Cohort is designed to empower entrepreneur women associated with the military—whether veterans, active duty, or reservists—to successfully scale their businesses. This year, we’re excited to announce that the NLBT Cohort grant has doubled from $5,000 to $10,000, with two bi-monthly pitch events where fellows can access funding to implement their business transformation strategies.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Applicants must have served in the military in any capacity (proof of service required).

• This program is specifically for business owners with established businesses that are already generating revenue.

Program Expectations: To be eligible, business owners must be committed to:

1. Developing a Strategic Growth Plan for the 6-month program.

2. Using the coworking space provided by the program, which includes a free dedicated desk.

3. Attending weekly business development sessions at the VWEC and providing evaluations.

4. Participating in regular one-on-one mentoring and offering feedback on those sessions.

5. Engaging in bi-monthly Saturday B2B Development Sessions, with evaluations to track progress.

6. Actively applying business development training to meet projected strategic growth goals.

7. Focusing on increasing revenue and exploring workforce development opportunities during the program.

Exclusive Opportunities for Fellows:

• The 2025 grant for fellows has increased to $10,000;

• 50% of the grant will be available during the program to implement approved transformation strategies.

• The remaining funds will be awarded based on performance, following a weighted system and the outcome of the final pitch presentation.

• Fellows will also receive support to complete SBA certifications and other relevant certifications for their business.

Program Outcomes: By the end of the program, fellows will have:

• Updated or created Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Developed a 3- to 5-year Strategic Growth Plan to ensure continued growth and sustainability.

REGISTER NOW: Attend a Mandatory Tour & Overview Session!

Potential fellows must attend a mandatory tour of the VWEC coworking space and an overview session to ensure the program is a good fit. If you're a strong match, you will be invited to submit an application.

Pitch events will take place in March, so don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity!

VWEC invites you, to join us this year on the 3rd Fridays of each month through May 2025 for ITC Cohort Training Series.

Each 2-hour training session will provide vital insights into how business owners can effectively explore and engage in international trade opportunities.

CONNECT WITH OUR SPEAKER:

Shelly Bryant, Founder, TL Global Insights

Shelly Bryant is an internationally recognized expert in cross-cultural communication, literary translation, and global leadership. As the founder of TL Global Insights, Shelly has spent over two decades helping businesses and individuals connect meaningfully across cultural boundaries. She is a Certified CQ Facilitator and the author of multiple books, including The Immediacy Advantage and Cultural Intelligence: Transforming Your Life Through Global Connections. Shelly’s engaging style and actionable insights make her a sought-after speaker and trainer, empowering audiences to thrive in today’s interconnected world.

Presentation Title and Synopsis

Title: Speak Their Language: Communicating with Cultural Intelligence to Win Global Customers

Synopsis:

Expanding your business into new markets requires more than translating words – it demands building authentic connections. In this session, Shelly Bryant will guide you through the essentials of communicating intelligibly and empathetically with customers in Canada and Mexico. Learn how to adapt your tone, messaging, and cultural approach to resonate with local audiences and win their trust. This interactive session will equip you with practical strategies to:

• Navigate cultural nuances in communication.

• Tailor your brand voice for new markets.

• Build genuine relationships with international customers.

Whether you’re fine-tuning your marketing or forging new partnerships, this session will provide the tools to take your business to the next level – internationally.

Description of the Session

Audience:

This session is designed for a group of highly accomplished business owners who desire to and/or are expanding their established businesses into international markets.

Format:

Introduction (15 minutes): Overview of cultural intelligence and its role in global business success

Core Content (90 minutes):

• Understanding cultural tone and context in Canada and Mexico

• Adapting communication styles to meet customer expectations

• Practical tips for marketing and outreach tailored to the region

• Exercises to refine messaging for cultural alignment

Q&A and Closing (15 minutes): Personalized advice and discussion on applying session insights

Outcomes:

Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of how to:

• Communicate effectively and respectfully across cultures

• Enhance customer engagement in Canada and Mexico

• Build sustainable international relationships grounded in trust and cultural awareness

Come, Connect, Collaborate & Celebrate: Women Veteran Entrepreneurs!

Join VWEC and ignite your entrepreneurial spirit at one of America’s BIGGEST business-to-business trade show, conference & networking event of the year!

Small Business Expo helps small business owners, start-ups and entrepreneurs like you take their business to the next level.

Volunteer with VWEC to spotlight your business and compete for $500 in grant funding. It’s Your Time to Get Connected!

https://bit.ly/VWECSmallBusinessExpoTour2024

VWEC invites you, to join us, on Friday, December 6th, from 12:30 - 2:30PM, for our ITC Cohort, Monthly Training Series.

This 2-hour training session will give you insights about translation and cultural adaptation to reach different markets in North America, particularly with the translation of your website.

Presented by: Dominique Senecal of LATMultilingue

Dominique has a B.A. in translation from the University of Montreal and extensive translation and project management experience. She is fluent in French and English, with knowledge of Spanish and Greek. Over the last 15 years, Dominique honed her skills in project management after starting out as a translator all the while doing simultaneous interpretation contracts and voice-overs.

Dominique joined LAT’s Montreal office five years ago, and is known for her technical skills, her vast knowledge of translation platforms’ back end and for her excellent planning skills, especially when it comes to handling high-volume projects with the production team.

Over the first hour, we will cover the following subjects together:

- The general translation process and what it entails.

- What to keep in mind when considering adaptation into another language and culture.

- How to evaluate your translation needs for Canada and Mexico.

- How to ensure your website’s content will be ready for a seamless and cost-efficient translation process, and how to export it.

- Brief overview of commonly used multilingual Website platforms and plugins.

- Machine and AI translation; when it can help, and when it can’t.

- How to pick the right language services provider, and what questions to ask them.

Then, for the second half of the session, you will be invited to share your current projects, so that you can receive advice tailored to your needs. You will also be invited to ask any questions you might have.

VWEC’s ITC Monthly Training Series is designed to connect attendees to the resources they need to successfully explore global market opportunities for their business.

JOIN US FOR:

How to Build Business Credit & How to Access the Online Platforms That Track Business Credit presented byLloyd-Trent Sampson, The Commercial Bank, Vice President, Comerica Bank.

Our Next Level Business Tranformation (NLBT) Cohort is opening up some of our MasterClass sessions to the general public.

Learn how to build and/or repair your credit as well as an understanding of how to access and manipulate the various platforms that track your business credit.

RSVP to angelakg@veteranwomensec.org to attend.

Celebrating Sisterhood In Action!

As part of our Envision the Future: Realize Your Vision Series . We are thrilled to share our Realize Your Vision Lunch & Learn session for November, celebrating Sisterhood In Action: A Collective Journey.

These gatherings provide attendees with invaluable opportunities to network, celebrate achievements, and be inspired!

Here are the details:

• Location: Veteran Women's Enterprise Center, Comerica BusinessHQ, 5201 R L Thornton Freeway, Dallas, Texas 75223.

• Format: These sessions will feature progress reports from our Sisterhood of 12. Additionally, we'll recognize and celebrate one individual who has made significant strides toward realizing their vision.

• Open Invitation: While these sessions are complimentary for our Sisterhood of 12, they're are open to the public for a small fee, extending the opportunity for all to benefit from our collective wisdom and experiences.

• Perks: Expect a light lunch and a few delightful surprises to add to the camaraderie and enjoyment of each gathering.

Registration will open, once each series speaker and sponsor is confirmed. Should you have any question or concerns, email at info@veteranwomensec.org.

Mark your calendar to come join our collective, and be inspired to realize your vision in 2024!

Come, Connect, Collaborate & Celebrate: Women Veteran Entrepreneurs!

Join VWEC and ignite your entrepreneurial spirit at one of America’s BIGGEST business-to-business trade show, conference & networking event of the year!

Small Business Expo helps small business owners, start-ups and entrepreneurs like you take their business to the next level.

Volunteer with VWEC to spotlight your business and compete for $500 in grant funding. It’s Your Time to Get Connected!

https://bit.ly/VWECSmallBusinessExpoTour2024

Join us for an inspiring day of insightful conversations and meaningful connections, as we honor our valued clients and dedicated community of supporters. Engage in an exciting immersive museum experience that highlights the remarkable journeys of our 2024 Accelerator and Business Cohort Fellows.

Dallas - TruHER North: Leading the Way CONFERENCE!

About the event

VWEC is excited to invite you to join or CEO, VR Small at the 2024 ACHE of North Texas Annual Women's Breakfast, with this year's theme: Women Leading with Courage and Bravery.

Our CEO joins this amazing line up of speakers below:

Pamela Bryant:

Pamela Bryant is the Senior Vice President & Chief Supply Chain Officer for Parkland Health. Parkland is one of the largest public hospitals in the country with more than 1 million patient visits annually. Pamela has over 25 years of supply chain experience and leads a team of over 200 personnel and is responsible for all aspects of the supply chain, including procurement, strategic sourcing, informatics, logistics, distribution, vendor management, and equipment/asset management. She has a proven track record in driving cost reductions, supporting dynamic growth, implementing new initiatives, improving operational efficiencies, and driving supplier diversity.

Pamela earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia, and her Master of Business Administration degree from Averett University in Danville, Virginia. She is an advisory board member of The Association for Health Care Resource & Materials Management (AHRMM) and previously served as president of the local North Texas chapter. She also serves as the Board Vice Chair for the Dallas Fort Worth Minority Supplier Development Council (DFWMSDC) is the Board Finance Chair of the Women’s Business Council Southwest (WBCS) and is a founding member of the Global Health Exchange’s (GHX) Customer Advisory Board.

Leora Westbrook:

Leora Westbrook is the President of Workforce Strategy & Optimization at AMN Healthcare, developing and executing the business plan. Leora oversees strategy, operations, technology, education, analytics, and consulting solutions.

With more than 20 years of healthcare and professional services experience, Leora has a record of leading complex organizations, driving growth, and delivering transformational outcomes. Known for her servant leadership and collaborative style, Leora has worked for Fortune 50 companies and launched her consulting practice.

Leora earned an MBA from Nova Southeastern University and a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Miami.

Lauren Fisher:

Lauren's incredible journey from being a welfare mom to amassing 30 years of experience in training and development as well as achieving a successful career in sales with the Fortune 500 company LabCorp, is nothing short of inspiring. At LabCorp, a global life sciences company with over 60,000 employees, Lauren has trained hundreds in both corporate and personal settings.

As a certified Jack Canfield Success Principles Trainer, Lauren Fisher empowers others to embrace their greatness with proven, easy-to-implement strategies through speaking engagements and experiential workshops through her company, Easy Success Strategies, LLC. She brings passion, heart, and determination to every engagement, making a lasting impact on everyone she meets.

Outside of her professional life, Lauren enjoys feeding her curiosity and passion for learning with books and utilizing various social media platforms. She has a deep passion championing others, connecting others with like-minded people and helpful resources. Lauren also found an interest in kayaking and even participated in the 2014 Guinness World Record event for the largest raft of canoes and kayaks, with an astounding 3,150 boats!

In 2017, Lauren added “published author” to her list of accomplishments with her writing contribution in the anthology “Women Who Inspire,” which became an Amazon #1 Best Seller.

Lauren Fisher’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, dedication, and the belief that anyone can achieve greatness.

VR Small:

VWEC Founder/CEO VR Small is a fellow of SMU’s Hunt Institute for Engineering and Humanity—Inclusive Economy, Dallas Public Voices, the Bush Institute Stand-to-Veteran Leadership Program and appointed as a Women Veterans 2030 Commissioner. 

Featured in Dallas Innovates 2020: The Future 50 North Texans to watched, that same year VR was selected as SBA’s DFW District 2020 Veteran Small Business Advocate of the Year, a Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), Center for Women Veterans (CWV), 2021 Trailblazer “Women Veterans Leading the Way” a Dallas Business Journal 2021 Women in Business Honoree,  nominated 2022 Entrepreneur Evangelist of the Year, a finalists for D CEO’s 2022 Nonprofit and Corporate Citizenship Awards for Leadership Excellence (Micro), 2022 Dallas Award for Business Development Services, and a Rolling Out Magazine, Sisters with Superpowers Honoree.

VR’s inspiring work is featured in the Dallas Morning News, Veterans Day 2021 Special Pullout Edition, on the cover of the 2022 Winter Issue of AVOW, 2022 Marquis Who’s Who in America, and Texas CEO Magazine-Q3.

A media favorite featured on NBC 5 Texas Today, FOX 4, Shaun Rabb: Here & Now, Spectrum News: In Focus, FOX 4, Good Day Dallas, River City Live, WJXT – Jacksonville, Fl. Rance Adams; Daytime Diva, Lynne Haze, CW33 MORNING, WFAA Weekend Daybreak, Axios, and Best of Guide TV to name a few.

In 2023, VWEC hosted the grand opening of its new facility in the Comerica BusinessHQ, a five-million-dollar renovation creating a community small business center in southern Dallas. This year VWEC celebrates its 7th Anniversary with the theme Empowering Her Path Forward: Celebrating Her Steps to Success!

A big thanks to AMN Healthcare for hosting this dynamic event!

VWEC International Trade Cohort (ITC) Monthly Training Series September 2024

VWEC invites you, to join us, on Friday, September 20th, from 12:30 - 2:30PM, for our ITC Cohort, Monthly Training Series focused on Expanding Your Business Globally. Connect with the University of Texas at San Antonio Institute for Economic Development a part of the Texas South-West SBDC Network. The largest & most successful trade assistance organization in the State
of Texas

Meet Our Guest Speaker: Rick Rayne

Rick Rayne is a Senior International Business Advisor at the UTSA SBDC International Trade Center.

Rick has been working in the international business field for over 30 years. He spent many of those years at FedEx advising and providing customized solutions to exporters and importers of various sizes about the intricacies of global logistics, international marketing, e-Commerce, government regulations, and overseas business partner outreach. He also worked at the U.S. Department of Commerce’s MBDA Export Center promoting international business development among minority-owned businesses. He has also spoken at a variety of international trade seminars and conferences throughout South and West Texas.

Rick holds a Master of International Management degree from Thunderbird School of Global Management. Rick is a Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP), and is also a member of the Texas Camino Real District Export Council.

VWEC’s ITC Monthly Training Series is designed to connect attendees to the resources they need to successfully explore global market opportunities for their business.

Join us for another engaging session connecting you to the resources you need to succeed!

Join us on the Danisha Keating Show

Meet the Keynote speakers of the TruHER North: Leading the Way Women's Conference including our CEO, VR Small.

Hear about their passion projects, and this transformative event coming to Dallas designed to empower and inspire women.

The TruHER North: Leading the Way Women's Conference is a dynamic gathering that will bring together ambitious women from all walks of life, providing them with the tools, resources, and connections they need to succeed--a standing commitment at the VWEC.

We invite you to get connected!