From Foundation to Growth: Building Talent with H.O.P.E. and Vanguard Rising
As part of NVBDC’s commitment to helping veteran-owned businesses grow, compete, and thrive in today’s marketplace, the Digital Readiness Series continues with an important conversation focused on one of the most valuable assets any business can have: its people.
On June 25, 2026, NVBDC welcomes Robyn Grable, Founder and CEO of The ASCEND Collective, U.S. Navy Veteran, and experienced talent acquisition professional, for a practical webinar titled “From Foundation to Growth: Building Talent with H.O.P.E. and Vanguard Rising.”
While many business owners focus on sales, operations, technology, and growth strategies, sustainable success ultimately depends on the strength of the team behind the mission.
This webinar explores a critical question:
How do you build a business where both people and performance can grow together?
Beyond Hiring: Building a Talent Foundation
Finding talent is only part of the equation. Retaining, developing, and empowering talent requires a deliberate foundation built on trust, accountability, and leadership.
During this session, attendees will learn how to strengthen their organizations through the H.O.P.E. model and the Four Cs:
- Character
- Competence
- Consistency
- Communication
These principles help business leaders create environments where employees can succeed, contribute, and grow while supporting the long-term goals of the organization.
Participants will also be introduced to Vanguard Rising, an innovative approach that allows businesses to observe talent in action through meaningful work opportunities before making hiring decisions. This practical model helps reduce hiring risk while providing individuals an opportunity to demonstrate their capabilities in real-world situations.
Supporting the Vision of NVBDC 3.0
As NVBDC continues its evolution toward NVBDC 3.0, the organization is expanding beyond certification to provide veteran-owned businesses with the tools, resources, education, and strategic support needed to compete in an increasingly complex economy.
The Digital Readiness Series is a key component of that vision.
By providing access to expert-led training in areas such as digital marketing, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, exporting, supplier readiness, and workforce development, NVBDC is helping veteran-owned businesses strengthen every aspect of their operations.
Talent development is a critical part of that journey.
Businesses do not grow because they get lucky with talent. They grow because they intentionally build systems, cultures, and leadership structures that allow talent to thrive.
Mission: POSSIBLE
The theme of NVBDC’s upcoming 2026 National Veteran Business Matchmaking Conference is Mission: POSSIBLE—a reflection of what happens when veteran entrepreneurs are equipped with the right resources, partnerships, and opportunities to succeed.
Building stronger teams is part of making that mission possible.
For veteran-owned businesses, workforce development represents more than organizational growth. It creates opportunities for veterans, military spouses, and transitioning service members to discover meaningful careers, develop new skills, and contribute to organizations that value their experience and leadership.
Every successful business begins with a strong foundation. Every strong foundation begins with people.
Join Us
Whether you are actively hiring, preparing for growth, or simply looking to strengthen your organization’s leadership and talent strategy, this webinar will provide practical insights you can immediately apply to your business.
Join NVBDC as we continue building the future of veteran business through education, innovation, workforce development, and the vision of NVBDC 3.0.
