Voting to crown the 2026 Vetrepreneur and Veteran of the Year at the national level is in full swing. All veterans and patriotic Americans are encouraged to vote at www.militaryfriendly.com/vote through the Fourth of July.
Recognition Shows fellow Veterans a Pathway for Success.
Veterans as a group have been historically humble, choosing to shy away from bringing attention to their individual contributions. This “team first, self last” mentality is instilled in military service. But as veterans it’s important to recognize individual successes in the private sector because it inspires other veterans to realize their full potential too.
As veterans, our history of service defines us, but our continuation of service unites us.
Telling the stories of successful veterans in the civilian world shows a pathway for other veterans to follow. It’s mentorship. It’s paying it forward. It matters.
A record number of nominations were received this year and the ballots are full of great candidates awaiting your vote.
Primary voting was open through Memorial Day to determine state-level winners. The final round of voting, which runs through the Fourth of July, will determine national winners. National winners will be announced in the fall.
VOY Criteria
There are about 2.5 million veterans who own businesses in the United States. Since 2006, the Vetrepreneur® of the Year program has recognized them. Previous winners include SportClips® founder and Air Force veteran Gordon Logan, NASCAR driver and Navy veteran Jesse Iwuji and Titania Solutions Group founder and Army veteran Jodi Johson. In its 20th year, the Vetrepreneur® of the Year Award recognizes veterans of strong character who currently own and operate successful businesses. Criteria for recognition includes business longevity, growth, size or those with significant impact in or support of the communities they serve.
The Veteran of the Year® program recognizes veterans of strong character who have made a positive impact either while in uniform or after service. Criteria in uniform includes exemplary combat or non-combat military service. Criteria after service includes community involvement, professional success, overcoming challenges or other noteworthy contributions to society.
Nominations were accepted during February, March and April from qualified candidates. Vote today at www.militaryfriendly.com/vote.
