When the NVBDC Military & Veteran Organization (MVO) Task Force partnered with the Global Chamber for a global growth webinar, the goal was simple: help veteran-owned businesses think bigger.
The result was a powerful, perspective-shifting conversation led by César Trabanco, VP of International Business Services at Global Chamber®, who challenged attendees to see international expansion not as a future ambition — but as a present-day opportunity.
César opened with a statistic that immediately reframed the conversation: only 5% of the world’s consumers live in the United States. That means 95% of potential customers are outside our borders. For many veteran entrepreneurs focused on domestic growth, that realization alone was enough to spark new strategic thinking.
Throughout the session, César emphasized that small and medium enterprises are already leading U.S. exports. Despite the common misconception that global trade is reserved for large multinational corporations, SMEs — including veteran-owned businesses — are driving international expansion. The playing field is more accessible than many realize.
The discussion highlighted consistent global trade growth, particularly across emerging markets such as India, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Attendees also learned about the significant expansion in service exports, especially as companies pivot strategies in response to shifting tariff environments. For veteran-owned businesses operating in consulting, logistics, environmental services, technology, professional services, and construction support, the message was clear: global demand exists, and it is growing.
What made this webinar especially practical was the focus on execution. Global Chamber’s mission — to grow business and relationships everywhere — is supported by a network spanning more than 605 metro areas across 195 countries. Rather than simply offering a directory of contacts, the organization facilitates meaningful introductions, connecting members with in-country advisors, representatives, and business leaders positioned to open real doors.
César also highlighted the flexibility of Global Chamber’s programming. Many events are virtual, making it easier for business owners to connect globally without the time and cost barriers typically associated with international travel. The Chamber’s meetings provide valuable market research insights and peer-to-peer learning opportunities, helping members better understand regulatory environments, cultural considerations, and regional trends.
One opportunity César strongly encouraged attendees to consider was the Global Chamber® Virtual League of Opportunities Monthly Forum. This forum selects five to six members each month to present their businesses, gain international exposure, crowdsource ideas, and form strategic connections. For NVBDC-certified SD/VOBs exploring global markets, it represents a focused, low-risk entry point into international visibility.
As part of the partnership, Global Chamber is offering an exclusive 20% discount on Corporate Membership for NVBDC-certified Service-Disabled and Veteran-Owned Businesses. This benefit provides direct access to their international ecosystem — introductions, forums, events, and advisory resources designed to accelerate global engagement.
To support continued learning, several resources are available to attendees and members. These include the “Strategic Global Networking in the Digital Age” presentation slides, the Global Chamber Events Calendar, and information on the Virtual League of Opportunities Monthly Forum.
This webinar reinforced a powerful reality: veteran-owned businesses are uniquely positioned for global success. Veterans understand logistics, operational discipline, cross-border coordination, and mission execution. Those skills translate directly into international markets.
The world economy is expanding. Emerging markets are accelerating. Service exports are rising. And through the NVBDC MVO Task Force’s partnership with Global Chamber®, veteran-owned businesses now have a structured pathway to engage globally.
The opportunity is not theoretical. It is active.
The question now is not whether veteran-owned businesses can compete globally, but how quickly they are ready to connect.
