ME Mag July 2023

Military Entrepreneur Magazine

CONTENTS 3

CEO CORNER

6 WE NEED YOU 10

THE POWER OF PARTNERSHIPS SPOUSE-LY + THE ROSIE NETWORK

13 PARTNERSHIP: EMPOWERING MILITARY-CONNECTED ENTREPRENEURS

14

2023 MILITARY CONNECTED ENTREPRENEUR AWARDS

16 HOLDING DOWN THE FORT EDITORIAL AND PRODUCTION

CEO and Founder | Stephanie Brown Managing Editor | Tricia Ross

19

THE RETURN OF ROSIE'S LIST

20

MY VETBENEFITS

24

VIDEOS TO SUCCESS

26

THE INDISPENSABLE ROLE OF MENTORSHIP FOR ENTREPRENEURS: UNLOCKING SUCCESS THROUGH GUIDANCE

28

REGISTER YOUR MILITARYCONNECTED BUSINESS IN THE 2023 HOLIDAY BUYING GUIDE

Distribution | Jennifer Jordan Production Editor | Lura Poggi Contribution | Tricia Ross, Monica Fullerton, Jennifer Amos, Todd Ernst

"Supporting Military Connected Entrepreneurs For Over A Decade" 15336 MESA ESTATES CT., RAMONA, CA 92065 CONTACT@THEROSIENETWORK.ORG

WWW.THEROSIENETWORK.ORG

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/THEROSIENETWORK

WWW.LINKEDIN.COM/COMPANY/THE-ROSIE-NETWORK

CEO'S CEO'SCORNER CORNER The Evolution of Rosie's List The decade-long journey of The Rosie Network began with a simple yet grand idea: What if American consumers could quickly locate and patronize verified veteran and military spouseowned businesses? How would that impact military families around the country? I say 'simple' because who wouldn't support that idea, yet 'grand' because the work to bring Rosie's List to life was anything but simple. After more than a year of interviewing hundreds of small business owners and working with the veteran who built the original search tool, Rosie's List was born. But, like many early-stage entrepreneurs, my vision and mission shifted. I recognized that it was not enough to provide a way to find these businesses; we needed to help them launch and grow. Eventually, that led to our national award-winning free training and mentoring program called Service2CEO, which is designed for transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses; while our core mission shifted, we continued to work on what our vision for Rosie's List should be: do we build an e-commerce site or remain an e-directory? One thing I've learned over the years - through good times and bad - is that when you approach any decision with a focus on how it will affect those you serve; the answer will show itself. Staying true to our core mission of empowering the next generation of militaryconnected small business owners, we collaborated on the long-awaited relaunch of Rosie's List with Spouse-ly, a military spouse-owned e-commerce platform.

Today, the new Rosie's List is better than ever! We still verify military affiliation so you can shop with confidence. Still, we've also added features to benefit our member businesses, like an advanced geo-fencing search experience, making it easier to find and hire the right professionals and products to buy. If you want to purchase a product, we provide a link to that vendor's shopping cart on Spouse-ly, which benefits everyone. Great things can be accomplished with a simple idea, but actual impact only happens when we put others before ourselves.

Stephanie Brown CEO and Founder, The Rosie Network

MILITARY ENTREPRENEUR MAGAZINE

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THE WHY THERE ARE NEARLY 1.8 MILLION MILITARY VETERAN ENTREPRENEURS AND THEIR BUSINESSES GENERATE AROUND $1 TRILLION IN ANNUAL RECEIPTS. U.S. Small Business Association

ENTREPRENEURSHIP HAS A POSITIVE EFFECT ON VETERANS.

FIFTY-SIX PERCENT NOTED THAT BECOMING AN ENTREPRENEUR HELPED THEM FIND A PURPOSE AFTER THE MILITARY.

56%

2021 National Survey of Military-Affiliated Entrepreneurs(NSMAE)

MILITARY SPOUSES FACE UNEMPLOYMENT RATES THAT ARE 4X THE NATIONAL AVERAGE NMSN Roadmap to Employment Stability for Military Spouses

MILITARY SPOUSE EMPLOYMENT IS A TOP-FIVE MILITARY LIFE ISSUE FOR NEARLY HALF OF ACTIVE-DUTY SPOUSES 2021 Blue Star Families Life Style Survey

MILITARY ENTREPRENEUR MAGAZINE

Military spouses, veterans, and active duty service members actively opt for small business ownership to establish financial stability for their families. In doing so, they are becoming significant contributors to their local communities economic development and creating portable career opportunities worldwide.

For over a decade, The Rosie Network has been at the forefront of the Military Connected Entrepreneur movement. We have played a pivotal role in guiding and empowering these individuals through various initiatives. Our flagship program, Service2CEO, offers comprehensive training for military entrepreneurs.

We understand the importance of ongoing mentorship, which is why we offer access to our national network of mentors. Furthermore, we organize conferences, roundtables, and think tanks to facilitate knowledge-sharing and networking opportunities. We are committed to continuous education and offer a robust Alumni Program for our growing community.

At The Rosie Network, we firmly believe that those who have served and their families have earned the right to pursue the American Dream. Our mission revolves around their success and ensuring they have the resources and support needed to thrive as entrepreneurs.

IT’S BEEN OVER A DECADE AND “WE CAN’T DO IT WITHOUT YOU!”

We are so proud of our mission and what we’ve accomplished over the last decade, most importantly, the impact our programs and services have made on our military-connected entrepreneurs and their families since 2012.

Thanks to the ongoing financial investment and generous gifts provided by our corporate, individual and foundation donors, The Rosie Network today serves 5000 military entrepreneurs across 36 states and in 3 countries.

A special THANK YOU to our MAJOR donors who have invested more than $50,000 to our mission, programs, and services so that we can continue to offer at NO cost to the military entrepreneurs we serve:

THANK YOU to ALL of our donors who make our mission possible!

JOIN OUR SUPPORTERS WITH AN INVESTMENT IN OUR MISSION AND MILITARY ENTREPRENEURIAL PROGRAMS CONTACT LEONA SUBLETT AT LSUBLETT@THEROSIENETWORK.ORG

VISIT WWW.THEROSIENETWORK.ORG TO DONATE The Rosie Network is a 501 (c)3 Federal Tax ID Number: 46-1522625

WE NEED YOU For over a decade, we have served the incredible community of Military-Connected Entrepreneurs. Throughout this journey, we have believed in providing unwavering support to Military Spouses and Veterans, bridging the unemployment gap, and empowering them to thrive alongside their civilian counterparts. We are committed to ensuring these extraordinary individuals have access to training programs and resources that eliminate barriers and enable them to build businesses that secure their families' financial stability.

We recognize that the success of our military entrepreneurs is paramount to our nation's economic engine. Now, more than ever, we urgently need your support. Our country relies on the resilience and innovation of small business owners and entrepreneurs for job growth and a robust economic recovery. The Rosie Network has been at the forefront for over ten years, empowering military families through entrepreneurship—the embodiment of the American Dream. However, there is still much work to be done.

Together, we can achieve remarkable outcomes with your invaluable support. Your contribution will enable us to continue building an ecosystem that nurtures and uplifts military entrepreneurs. With your help, we can provide essential resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to foster their growth and success.

Together, we will bridge the gap and empower Military Spouses and Veterans to forge their paths in the business world.

Your involvement can take many forms. Every action matters financial contribution, spreading awareness about our cause, and volunteering your time and expertise. Your dedication will inspire others to join us in this transformative journey.

Join us today and become integral to our mission to empower military entrepreneurs. Together, we can ensure their businesses thrive, creating a positive ripple effect throughout our economy and society.

THE ROSIE NETWORK | WWW.THEROSIENETWORK.ORG The Rosie Network is a 501 (c)3 Federal Tax ID Number: 46-1522625

Your support will transform the lives of Military Spouses and Veterans and strengthen our nation. Let's empower those who have served our country with the opportunities they deserve.

Support The Rosie Network's Mission and Support Military-Connected Entrepreneurs at: https://bit.ly/Donate2Rosie

Feel free to contact us directly at lsublett@therosienetwork.org.

We are eager to answer any questions and discuss how you can make a lasting impact.

"As I look back on the past 12 weeks, I am filled with a sense of pride and accomplishment. I have grown as an entrepreneur and as a person, and I know that I am better prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. But more than anything, I am grateful for the friendships and connections I have made during this program.

The Rosie Network community is truly one-of-akind, and I am honored to be a part of it.

I am excited to take everything I have learned and apply it to my business, to continue growing and improving, and to see where this journey takes me.

Huge thank you to The Rosie Network, for an incredible 12 weeks. The future is bright, and I can't wait to see what's next!

Jacob Mousseau SERVICE2CEO GRADUATE, WWP COHORT CEO & FOUNDER OF WOUNDED WOODWORKERS

HOW YOU CAN HELP Corporate Sponsorships Event Sponsorships

Program Grants Individual Gifts

THE ROSIE NETWORK | WWW.THEROSIENETWORK.ORG The Rosie Network is a 501 (c)3 Federal Tax ID Number: 46-1522625 MILITARY ENTREPRENEUR MAGAZINE

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L A U T IV R JULY 11-20 Calling Military Connected Teens Who Aspire To Be Entrepreneurs

Register at: https://bit.ly/MilitaryKidpreneur

Ages 13 - 17

Monthly Club Meet Ups The 2nd Saturday of the month

Learn tips, tools and resources to become an entrepreneur!

Learn more at: www.therosienetwork.org/kidpreneur-camp

Presented By: Contact Leona Sublett for sponsorship opportunities lsublett@therosienetwork.org THE ROSIE NETWORK | WWW.THEROSIENETWORK.ORG The Rosie Network is a 501 (c)3 Federal Tax ID Number: 46-1522625

IMPACT

5000

MILITARY ENTREPRENEURS SERVED ANNUALLY

In 2023, TRN is on target to graduate 20 cohorts across 8 regions, 39 states and 6 countries.

Provide opportunities for Military-Connected Entrepreneurs to connect their brands to the American public and open doors to sell in AAFES, POP UP Shops, and ECommerce opportunities that increased sales by 1000%.

Created a road map for Military-Connected Entrepreneurs to unlock the growth and job creation potential of small business owners.

We began by serving 40 graduates in 2016 to serving 5000 annually today through our programs like Rosie Connects, Mentoring, Veteran and Military Entrepreneur Awards, Alumni Activities and more.

Served MilitaryConnected Entrepreneurs in all branches of the military, 40% of those being veterans, 60% of those being military spouses and 73% are considered low to moderate income.

Service2CEO Alumni report changing the way they do business to include greater access to capital, increased use of financial statements, expansion into new markets and improved management skills.

60% of the small business owners we have supported nationwide are members of the BIPOC community, 65% of those served are women.

The Power of Partnerships: Unleashing Success in Business By: Tricia Ross In today's dynamic and interconnected business landscape, the importance of partnerships cannot be overstated. Whether it's a strategic alliance, joint venture, or collaboration between two or more entities, partnerships have become indispensable for achieving sustainable growth and staying competitive. Successful businesses recognize that forging strong partnerships can unlock countless opportunities, foster innovation, mitigate risks, and enhance overall success. This article explores the significance of business partnerships and highlights the myriad benefits they bring to organizations.

Expanding Market Reach: Partnerships are a gateway to new markets and customer segments. Businesses can leverage their partner's existing customer base and distribution channels by collaborating with likeminded organizations. This synergy allows them to reach a wider audience, increase brand visibility, and generate new leads. Whether entering new geographical territories or targeting niche markets, partnerships enable companies to extend their market reach beyond their traditional boundaries, accelerating growth.

This collaborative approach fosters innovation, streamlines operations, and enhances efficiency. Sharing knowledge, technology, infrastructure, and intellectual property can significantly reduce costs and accelerate time-to-market, giving partnering companies a competitive edge.

Access to New Opportunities: Partnerships often open doors to new opportunities that may not have been accessible otherwise.

Collaborating with other industry players, startups, or research institutions can lead to joint research and development initiatives, allowing innovative products or services to be created. Partnerships also facilitate access to new technologies, intellectual property licenses, and emerging markets. By capitalizing on these opportunities, businesses can foster growth and gain a competitive advantage in a rapidly changing marketplace.

Sharing Resources and Expertise: In a rapidly evolving business environment, no organization can possess all the resources and expertise required to tackle every challenge. Partnerships enable businesses to pool their resources, share complementary skills, and tap into each other's strengths.

MILITARY ENTREPRENEUR MAGAZINE

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Risk Mitigation: The business landscape is fraught with risks, ranging from economic fluctuations to regulatory changes and technological disruptions.

Strategic partnerships can provide a buffer against such risks. Companies can spread their risk exposure by diversifying their operations and revenue streams through partnerships.

Collaborative efforts enable sharing risks, costs, and responsibilities, making it easier for businesses to navigate uncertain terrain and adapt to unforeseen challenges.

Enhancing Competitive Advantage: Partnerships can be a catalyst for creating a sustainable competitive advantage. By joining forces with other industry leaders or complementary organizations, businesses can leverage combined strengths to outperform competitors.

Through collaborations, companies can access new technologies, best practices, and market insights, enabling them to innovate and differentiate themselves from the competition. Strategic partnerships also enhance credibility and trust among customers, strengthening brand positioning.

In today's interconnected and fast-paced business world, partnerships have become integral to success. From expanding market reach and sharing resources to accessing new opportunities and mitigating risks, partnerships offer an array of benefits for organizations. By recognizing the power of collaboration and forging strategic alliances, businesses can unlock their full potential, drive innovation, and achieve sustainable growth. Embracing partnerships is not merely an option but necessary for businesses aiming to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Driving Innovation and Creativity: Partnerships create an environment conducive to innovation and creativity. By bringing together diverse perspectives, knowledge, and experiences, collaborations spark new ideas and generate fresh approaches to problem-solving. Joint research and development initiatives encourage knowledge exchange, leading to breakthrough discoveries and inventions.

The synergy between partners nurtures continuous learning and growth, driving innovation and pushing possible boundaries.

MILITARY ENTREPRENEUR MAGAZINE

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Calling ALL Military- Connected Businesses

Rosie's List WWW.ROSIESLIST.ORG

Shop Military Family Owned Businesses at your Fingertips!

Click below to list your business on Rosie's List or to update your listing

Community feature connecting military owned businesses across the globe.

https://bit.ly/3RscONsRosiesList

Accessible on App, Mobile, and Web-based platforms Powered By:

Ability to run advertisements, coupons & promo codes, classified listings, promote events and share consumer reviews In Partnership With:

T HNetwork E ROSIE N TW ORK | WFederal W W . T H ETax R O S IID E NNumber: E T W O R K . O46-1522625 RG The Rosie isE a 501 The Rosie Network is a(c)3 501 (c)3 Federal Tax ID Number: 46-1522625 The Rosie Network is a 501 (c)3 Federal Tax ID Number: 46-1522625

SPOUSE-LY + THE ROSIE NETWORK PARTNERSHIP: EMPOWERING MILITARY-CONNECTED ENTREPRENEURS The collaboration between The Rosie Network and Spouse-ly exemplifies a united purpose: to empower military-connected entrepreneurs and inspire the public to actively support the military community by patronizing military-owned enterprises. This partnership stands as a testament to their shared mission. Military entrepreneurs harness their unique skills, experiences, and dedication to build businesses that not only serve as a source of income but also contribute to the economic growth and resilience of their communities.

Entrepreneurship provides flexibility, stability, and a creative outlet when needed. Having access to the right tools and resources is such a crucial piece on the entrepreneurial journey, and that is something that both organizations understand and strive to provide the best of the When it comes to the military community, resilience and

best. Spouse-ly welcomes The Rosie Network

adaptability are two defining characteristics. Military

community to be a part of their online

spouses and veterans often face unique challenges when

marketplace, which provides one easy location

pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams. However, there

for anyone to shop small, make a big impact,

are a number of amazing companies and organizations

and purchase with a purpose. All of the vendors

out there that are working hard to bridge the gaps and

on Spouse-ly manage and run their shops, while

provide the support needed to succeed. Spouse-ly and

having the support from a like-minded

The Rosie Network are two perfect examples of military

community filled with military & first responder-

spouse founded companies that are on a mission to

owned businesses.

better serve and support their community. With the

Together, we can continue to shout from the

incredible work that has been done over the past decade

rooftops how incredibly talented and inspiring

by The Rosie Network and a one-of-a-kind online

our community is and make a greater impact in

marketplace created by Spouse-ly that’s powered by our

the world. On behalf of our entire Spouse-ly

nations’ heroes, it made perfect sense for the two to join

community, we are excited about this

forces and announce their new partnership!

partnership and look forward to all that lies ahead!

MILITARY ENTREPRENEUR MAGAZINE

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Calling ALL Military- Connected Businesses

EMILY EMMONS, 2021 MILITARY SPOUSE OWNED BUSINESS ENTREPRENEUR AWARD WINNER Meet Emily Emmons, CEO and Founder of Ho'ola Farms, is on a mission to provide natural agriculture educational training and hands-on experiences for military veterans and first responders, their families and caregivers as well as the community in hopes of creating a more sustainable future and overall physical and emotional well-being for all.

Emily is the Caregiver of her US Army Veteran Husband, a Service2CEO Graduate, an Elizabeth Dole Foundation Fellow, and the 2021 Military Spouse Owned Business Entrepreneur Award Winner.

Nominations Open - July 1st-31st, 2023 Virtual Awards Date - September 14th, 2023 The Military-Connected Entrepreneur Awards are designed to give recognition to Military Spouse, Veteran and Active-Duty service members who have the vision to see what might be, are willing to take risks that traditionally accompany any new endeavor, and possess the management skills to create a successful business enterprise.

CATEGORIES MENTOR OF THE YEAR

MILITARY KIDPRENEUR OF THE YEAR

MILITARY SPOUSE ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR

TRAILBLAZER OF THE YEAR

VETERAN ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR

STARTUP ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR

ACTIVE DUTY ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR HEALTH & WELLNESS ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR

MEDIA PROFESSIONAL ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR

Submit a nomination by scanning this QR Code:

Nominate at https://www.therosienetwork.org/entrepreneurawards Powered By:

The Rosie Network is a 501 Federal Tax ID Number: 46-1522625 The Rosie Network is a(c)3 501 (c)3 Federal Tax ID Number: 46-1522625 THE ROSIE NETWORK | WWW.THEROSIENETWORK.ORG The Rosie Network is a 501 (c)3 Federal Tax ID Number: 46-1522625

PREVIOUS AWARD WINNERS Enrique Acosta Gonzalez Jen Amos Vernice Armour Travis Arnold David Beadle Erica Beal Josie Beets Alex Cameron David Charbonnet Mike Chiesl Monique Clarke Todd Cline Jennifer Crawford Jeff Davids Jonathan Dickerson Maya Edinburgh-Taylor Emily Emmons Eldonna Fernandez Jim Fitzsimmons Anthony Gantt Erika Garcia

Dr. Kenneth Gay Dr. Jamie Muskopf Jennifer Gibbs Richard Pascoe Jen Griswold Pete Peterson Dr. Gigi Hamilton Maria Provencher Lars Herman Brian Raduenz Karen Hetz Joe Real David Inmon Raquel Riley Thomas Nikki James-Zellner Jaden Risner Libby Jamison Dr. Theresa Roman Donnell Johns Paul Saopek Michael Johnson Amy Schweizer David Johnson Wayne Shanks Chris Kaag Andrea Singsaas Joe Klimek Tony Taylor Alan Lerchbacker Tony Teravainen Lindsey Litton Scott Tucker Hernan Luis y Prado Elizabeth Valenzuela Banker Michael Malott Eric Venn-Watson Megan Militello Shirley Walker-King Jefferson Mitchell April Wilhelm Eric Mitchell Ruth Young-Loaeza Shamekia Moultrie

The Rosie Network is a 501 (c)3 Federal Tax ID Number: 46-1522625 MILITARY ENTREPRENEUR MAGAZINE

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Holding Down the Fort by US VetWealth Podcast Partners with The Rosie Network to Inspire Self-Sufficiency and Financial Stability

Building financial stability and selfsufficiency in the military community has always been a challenging endeavor. But now, The Rosie Network and US VetWealth are joining forces to change that narrative, starting with Season 7 of Holding Down the Fort podcast.

In Fall 2023, the podcast show will feature The Rosie Network's military-connected entrepreneurs. The collaboration feels like a 'full circle' moment for Jen Amos and US VetWealth, as The Rosie Network supported her husband, Scott R. Tucker, and the company in its' early stages. While the vehicle to self-sufficiency and financial stability for The Rosie Network is through entrepreneurship, US VetWealth's vehicles are alternative financial solutions in the private market to privatize the military pension.

Cementing this collaboration, both The Rosie Network and US VetWealth aim to make a significant impact on the military community, drawing on their unique strengths to drive forward their common cause of economic independence.

The podcast will focus on what catalyzed the guests' entrepreneurial journeys, the transformative process of living purposely and joyfully, and how they maintain financial stability. Jen Amos, the long-time host of Holding Down the Fort by US VetWealth, hopes that showcasing the stories of military-connected entrepreneurs will remind our military community (entrepreneurs and nonentrepreneurs alike) that they have the power to shape their lives and financial future.

Subscribe to the show's newsletter today!

Readers will gain early access to the show's guest lineup, insider updates from behind the scenes, and free resources exclusively available to our subscribers.

Visit https://holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/ Connect with Jen Amos at https://linkedin.com/in/jenamos Email jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com MILITARY ENTREPRENEUR MAGAZINE

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Service2CEO Chapter Leadership A much deserved THANK YOU to our amazing team of Chapter Leads that are the backbone of our Service2CEO Program. Their mission to serve is evident in their passion and commitment to their fellow military connected entrepreneurs that they support throughout our programs.

Laura Torres

Kelsey Liverpool

Kenneth Gay

E'Beth Goad

Melissa Purnell

LaToya Westbrook

Nicole Smith

Keyani Washington

Jessie Lawrence

Anna Wood

“The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team.”

- Phil Jackson

National University Supports the Whole You NU’s Whole Human Education™ provides academic, emotional, career, financial, and family support for military spouses to reach their educational and professional goals.

• More than 50% off tuition for military servicemembers, their spouses, and their dependents

• Veteran-founded Yellow Ribbon School • Dedicated military benefits team • Wellness and career counseling • Academic support with unlimited tutoring

Learn More

NU.edu/milspouse © National University 2023 716940

Rosie's List

We Make Finding Military Family-owned Businesses EASY. The American public shows its support of our armed services in many ways. What better way to show that support than to patronize a business owned and operated by military families.

ROSIE'S LIST connects consumers directly with our military-connected businesses as a vehicle to patronize military family-owned businesses.

The IMPROVED List Improved Accessibility Accessible on App, Mobile, and Web-based platforms.

Community Features Community feature to connect with military owned businesses across the globe.

Advanced Search Engine Advanced geo fencing search experience, making it easier to find and hire the right professional and products to buy.

And MORE Advertisements, coupons, classified listings, promote events and consumer reviews.

If you are a business owner and have served, are married to someone who has served in the Armed Forces, or are the dependent child of someone who has served, you are qualified to register your business at no cost on our network.

In partnership with:

Powered By:

THE ROSIE NETWORK | WWW.THEROSIENETWORK.ORG The Rosie Network is a 501 (c)3 Federal Tax ID Number: 46-1522625

MyVetBENEFITS – Get Instantly Matched to Earned Benefits It cuts through the noise of thousands of available resources using a proprietary algorithm to swiftly match individuals to the most relevant benefits in a matter of seconds.

MyVetBENEFITS was built to streamline access to benefits for veterans, military members, military spouses, and dependent children. But it's important to note that eligibility for most benefits is primarily based on the veteran or military member's unique service background, even though some benefits directly benefit spouses and dependent children. By creating a profile within the app, individuals can answer a few questions to generate a personalized list of benefits they’re most likely eligible for from a database of 2,500+ benefits and growing. The app then allows users to save benefits to a more The Rosie Network is proud to partner with My

customized list for quick reference. Users can also

VetBENEFITS to support military members and their

browse nationally-established organizations under

families.

key categories like employment, entrepreneurship, VA claims support, and more.

My VetBENEFITS is for veterans, military members,

While MyVetBENEFITS is not an official government

and their families, navigating the daunting world of

app, it includes a collection of benefits from official

benefits and resources is often overwhelming. Despite

government sources, including federal, state, and non-

the many benefits available to the military community

profit organizations. The app serves as an overview of

from federal agencies, state veteran departments, and

available benefits, but for the most up-to-date

40,000+ military-centric charities, many individuals

information, users are reminded to consult the owning

still struggle to navigate the healthcare and benefits system designed to assist them.

Fortunately, there's a groundbreaking new solution, MyVetBENEFITS. This innovative app instantly matches user profiles to a personalized list of benefits and services they're most likely eligible for, simplifying the process and ensuring they get the support they deserve.

According to a 2022 survey by IAVA, only 39% of military members returning to civilian life feel somewhat or very prepared to tackle the benefits system, while a staggering 53% describe their overall

agency for each benefit, provided by the app for easy reference.

Using MyVetBENEFITS is a simple three-step process.

First, you'll need to complete your profile, which only takes a couple of minutes. Next, get matched and instantly view your personalized list of benefits. It's time to use the benefits you've earned and access the support available to you.

With its user-friendly interface, extensive information, and convenient features, MyVetBENEFITS is changing the game by digitally matching veterans and their families to the benefits and services they've earned, all within minutes from their computer or phone.

transition as difficult. MyVetBENEFITS was created by a team of veterans, military spouses, and military brats

Learn more at www.myvetbenefits.com or download

who personally understand these challenges and set

the app to get matched with your benefits.

out to find a better way.

MILITARY ENTREPRENEUR MAGAZINE

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Building The Next Generation of Military Entrepreneurs The Rosie Network’s mission is to build stronger military families through entrepreneurial programs and support services that empower military spouses, transitioning service members and veterans, increasing the financial stability and selfsufficiency of American families who serve.

Program Impact 5000

Each year our 5000 military-connected entrepreneurs launch and grow businesses across 37 states and 5 countries.

We serve a diverse community. 82% are women (veterans & spouses). 64% are people of color. 76% of our veterans served are service-disabled.

Our program and services generated 800 jobs in 2022 and increased military household income through entrepreneur ventures.

Powered By:

SERVICE2CEO

SERVICE2CEO Alumni

KIDPRENEUR

Is the starting point for our military-connected entrepreneurs.

Each cohort learns core business skills from concept to funding and branding to scaling. Graduates develop the skills and network to launch and grow their businesses.

The program keeps graduates connected throughout the life cycle of their business. Staying connected with our graduates provides access to mentors, capital resources and ongoing business assessment opportunities.

The program is designed to empower military-connected teens with the tools to develop an entrepreneurial mindset, business model, marketing and brand development, financial readiness and networking while having fun.

HOW YOU CAN HELP Corporate Sponsorships Event Sponsorships

Program Grants Individual Gifts

Contact Leona Sublett at lsublett@therosienetwork.org for more information THE ROSIE NETWORK | WWW.THEROSIENETWORK.ORG

The Rosie Network is a 501 (c)3 Federal Tax ID Number: 46-1522625 The Rosie Network is a 501 (c)3 Federal Tax ID Number: 46-1522625

USAA.COM/SMALLBUSINESS Membership eligibility and product restrictions apply and are subject to change. Small Business Insurance is underwritten by Garrison Property & Casualty Insurance Company, San Antonio, Texas ("Garrison"). Not available in all states. Copyright © 2022 USAA 280734-0722

For many veterans and military spouses, starting a business makes more sense than pursuing a traditional day job. Veterans and military spouses can rely on their experience, adaptability, and resiliency to drive business success increasing their financial stability and self-sufficiency.

The Rosie Network has partnered with Mission Hire Me (MHM), a production and branding company, to serve veterans and military spouse entrepreneurs by helping them create visually engaging and professionally edited videos. The videos are tailormade in partnership with the business owner, a Service2CEO program graduate, with the goal of accelerating growth and financial success by attracting customers and potential investors.

Together we can support those that served us, their families, communities, and our nation's economy by accelerating veteran and military spouse-owned businesses.

TOGETHER OUR MISSION IS THEIR SUCCESS

For sponsorship opportunities Contact Leona Sublett at lsublett@therosienetwork.org The Rosie Network is a 501 (c)3 Federal Tax ID Number: 46-1522625 MILITARY ENTREPRENEUR MAGAZINE

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The Indispensable Role of Mentorship for Entrepreneurs: Unlocking Success Through Guidance By: Tricia Ross

Service2CEO Mentors Entrepreneurship is a challenging journey that demands resilience, determination, and many skills. While aspiring entrepreneurs may possess the passion and ideas necessary to thrive, they often need more guidance and experience to navigate the complex business world. This is where mentorship plays a pivotal role. With their wealth of knowledge and experience, mentors provide invaluable guidance and support, enabling entrepreneurs to overcome obstacles, maximize their potential, and achieve remarkable success. In this article, we explore the significance of mentorship for entrepreneurs and how it can shape their journey toward excellence.

Dr. Jamie Muskopf,

Thomas E. Ladegaard, Esquire

Gaining Perspective and Experience: Mentors bring a wealth of experience to the table, having weathered the storms of entrepreneurship. They offer a unique perspective on challenges, opportunities, and strategies. By sharing their successes and failures, mentors provide entrepreneurs with invaluable insights that can accelerate their learning curve. This guidance helps entrepreneurs avoid common pitfalls, make informed decisions, and develop a holistic understanding of the business landscape.

Building a Strong Network: Networking is a vital aspect of entrepreneurship. A mentor can introduce entrepreneurs to their extensive network of contacts, opening doors to potential investors, customers, partners, and industry experts. By leveraging their mentor's connections, entrepreneurs gain access to valuable resources and opportunities that might have otherwise remained out of reach. Building a strong network early on can significantly enhance an entrepreneur's chances of success.

Troy Smalls, MBA

N'Kia, Esquire

Jim Guilfoil, CFP®, AIF®

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Service2CEO Mentors

Attiyya Ingram, AFC

Personal and Professional Development: Mentorship goes beyond offering business advice; it focuses on the holistic development of the entrepreneur. Mentors guide personal growth, leadership skills, and emotional intelligence. By nurturing these qualities, mentors help entrepreneurs become well-rounded individuals capable of effectively handling the demands of running a business.

Mentorship also fosters confidence and resilience, enabling entrepreneurs to navigate setbacks with grace and bounce back stronger.

Encouragement and Motivation: The entrepreneurial journey often has ups and downs. Having a mentor by your side can be a source of immense motivation and encouragement during challenging times. A mentor understands the rollercoaster ride of entrepreneurship and can offer emotional support, helping entrepreneurs stay focused and motivated. The mentor's belief in their mentee's potential can be a powerful driving force, inspiring entrepreneurs to persevere through adversity and relentlessly pursue their goals.

Laura Torres MBA, CDCS

Hema Crockett

Personalized Guidance and Accountability: Mentorship offers entrepreneurs personalized guidance tailored to their needs. Mentors can identify areas for improvement, provide constructive feedback, and challenge entrepreneurs to push their boundaries. This personalized approach keeps entrepreneurs accountable for their actions and goals, fostering continuous growth and improvement.

Enrique Acosta Gonzalez

Chelsey Newmyer

To all our mentors, thank you for sharing your time and knowledge with our participants.

The Rosie Network is here to support your mentoring needs. Should you need help identifying a mentor, please contact us at contact@therosienetwork.org

Inspiring Innovation and Creativity: Mentors often encourage entrepreneurs to think outside the box and embrace innovation. They inspire creativity by sharing their unique approaches and experiences. Mentors foster an entrepreneurial mindset that embraces change, adaptability, and innovation by challenging traditional thinking. This guidance can lead to groundbreaking ideas and disrupt existing industries.

Mentorship serves as a catalyst for entrepreneurial success, bridging the gap between inexperience and expertise. The guidance, support, and wisdom mentors provide are indispensable for entrepreneurs as they navigate the challenging business landscape. The personal and professional growth facilitated by mentors propels entrepreneurs toward their goals, enabling them to make informed decisions, build valuable networks, and overcome obstacles with confidence.

Aspiring entrepreneurs should actively seek mentorship opportunities and embrace the transformative power of this invaluable relationship.

2023

Holiday Buying Guide

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