11 Veteran-Owned Businesses to Remember on 9-11
September is a milestone for many. Students are back at school, the fall season starts to leave a crispness in the air and pumpkin-flavored drinks are officially released. AND, September is also a milestone for many Americans as we remember the events of 9-11.
As we pause and reflect on the lives lost on that day and subsequent war(s), my friend, Julia, and I wanted to share something special. Both of our brothers are Marines, so we come from proud military families. We recognize the sacrifice that our military members make along with their families. So, we’ve compiled a list of veteran-owned or veteran family-owned businesses that are doing some pretty cool stuff.
Consider supporting these businesses in an effort to support those who have and still serve!
Black Rifle Coffee. This veteran owned company hand-selects + roasts coffee beans, shipping them right to your door!
Hero's Vodka. Started by a Marine to honor his fallen friends, Hero’s Vodka produces an award winning spirit. A significant portion of every purchase is donated annually to American Veterans, Active Duty Military, and their families.
Battle Bars. Veteran owned and operated, this company sells premium protein bars (they have SO many flavors). The Battle Bars team donates frequently to the non-profit, Operation Enduring Warrior, which seeks to benefit veterans in need of physical, mental and emotional rehabilitation.
Sword and Plough. Sword and Plough is a veteran owned company re-purposing military surplus bags into fashion jewelry and bags. They give back a portion of profits to veteran initiatives!
Turbo Pup. Power bars for dogs, superfood dog treats! Founded by Kristina Guerrero (who made it on Shark Tank) and 5% of profits are donated to support Veterans and animals.
Bottle Breacher. The team at Bottle Breachers hand-crafts 50 Caliber bottle openers made by Active Duty service members and Veterans. This business was also featured on Shark Tank! A portion of their proceeds are given back to veteran initiatives and they have a “Never Forgotten” section, which honors Soldiers, etc. who passed away while serving.
Pets for Vets. Pets for Vets is actually a non-profit dedicated to connecting veterans with skilled animals to help relieve stress, loneliness and anxiety.
Oak & Oliver (hand-crafted soy candles - military spouse)
R. Riveter. This handmade leather bag company was founded by veteran spouses as a way to produce a mobile income in the midst of a transient lifestyle. Their bags are GORGEOUS and they make an effort to partner with like minded Non-Profit, Veteran Owned & Military Spouse founded organizations.
Never Stop, Never Quit. This organization was founded by a veteran who has multiple sclerosis to help raise awareness and research funds for the disease. He’s actually an alumni of the company I work for and we recently recorded a podcast with him. He has such a great story.
Penny Luck. I actually met the founder of Penny Luck in Fredericksburg a couple of years ago. He and his team are based out of Austin and create handsome custom leather shoes. Their signature? A penny hand-placed by a veteran on the sole of the shoe. They love to hire veterans and donate frequently to the Purple Heart Foundation.
We hope you find these entrepreneurship stories inspiring. We will never forget.
