Veterans in Business Expo

On a mission to serve those who have served, the inaugural Veterans in Business Expo delivered a high-impact day of connection, education, and empowerment—all focused on helping veteran entrepreneurs and professionals achieve their next mission: professional fulfillment. Hosted in Gilbert, Arizona, this first-of-its-kind event for the Veterans Business Council united veteran business owners, industry leaders, and resource providers with a shared goal: building stronger businesses and communities through the power of veteran-led leadership.

A Launchpad for Veteran Success

The Opening Session set the tone, recognizing the dedication, resilience, and potential of our veteran business community. Military service instills in individuals a unique blend of discipline, leadership, resilience, and mission-driven focus—qualities that serve as a powerful foundation for entrepreneurship. When veterans transition from military to civilian life and choose to open a business, they carry forward a spirit of service, a commitment to excellence, and a deep sense of responsibility to their communities. Recognizing veteran-owned businesses is more than a gesture of appreciation—it’s an acknowledgment of their continued contribution to our economy, our neighborhoods, and our shared future. These entrepreneurs exemplify what it means to lead with purpose, and by honoring them, we not only celebrate their achievements but also inspire others to follow their lead.

Keynote Spotlight: Patrick Banger – Leading Through Transformation

Gilbert’s Town Manager, Patrick Banger, headlined the day with a keynote on visionary leadership and transformative impact. With over two decades in both public and private sector leadership, Banger shared lessons from his journey leading Gilbert to national recognition for fiscal strength and livability. His message was clear: leadership rooted in service, integrity, and adaptability has the power to elevate communities—and businesses.

Veteran Vendor Showcase

The Expo floor was alive with energy as veteran-owned businesses, government contracting representatives, and corporate allies connected in the Veteran Vendor Showcase. From cutting-edge tech startups to service-based entrepreneurs, the Showcase demonstrated the rich diversity and innovation within Arizona’s veteran business community. Attendees left not only with new contacts but new customers, collaborators, and cheerleaders.

Expert Insights Panel: From Foundation to Freedom

A cornerstone of the event was the Expert Insights Panel, a powerhouse lineup of professionals covering the full spectrum of business ownership—from start-up strategy to financial longevity:

• Korey Bahme of Bahme Law delivered tactical legal insights on risk management and entity formation.
• Eric T. Whitmoyer, CEO of My Biz Coaches and Army National Guard veteran, laid out a results-driven blueprint for scaling a business from $1 to $1 million and beyond.
• Michael Kreitinger, founder of Liberty Star Wealth and Army veteran, shared practical, pressure-free strategies for building wealth as a veteran entrepreneur.
• Tom Murray of Arthur Bookkeeping & Tax emphasized the importance of clarity and confidence in day-to-day financial management.
• Peter Salazar, CPA, offered strategies for retirement planning and tax minimization to help veterans secure their financial future.

Each expert provided tailored guidance for the veteran experience—recognizing that the path from service to CEO comes with its own set of opportunities and challenges.

The Resource Briefing: Tools for the Veteran Business Journey

Closing the education lineup was Dr. George Olander, Director of Arizona’s Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC). A former Marine Corps aviator and business professor, Dr. Olander illuminated the often-overlooked state and federal resources available to veterans, spouses, and transitioning service members. From grants to mentorship programs, attendees walked away with a clear roadmap for accessing support.

Why It Matters

Veterans have what it takes to lead in business. With education, community, and the right resources, their success becomes a force multiplier for local economies and national growth. Gilbert and the surrounding region are already seeing the impact, with veterans bringing discipline, creativity, and courage to the marketplace.

Whether you’re a veteran exploring your next chapter or a community member looking to support those who served, the Veterans in Business Expo proved one thing: The next mission is just beginning.

Want to get involved next year or support the cause? Connect with the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and the Veterans Business Council to learn how you can invest in the success of our veteran entrepreneurs.

Email: elaine@gilbertchamber.com