The National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC) is proud to serve on the advisory committee for Michigan Celebrates Small Business (MCSB). This influential initiative, managed by the Small Business Association of Michigan (SBAM) Foundation, brings together a coalition of organizations dedicated to recognizing and supporting small businesses throughout the state.
As part of the advisory committee, NVBDC joins respected organizations such as:
- Edward Lowe Foundation
- Kinexus Group
- Michigan Black Business Alliance
- Michigan Small Business Development Center
- Michigan Rehabilitation Services
- Small Business Association of Michigan
- West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Together, these organizations ensure that small business owners from all backgrounds have access to opportunities, resources, and recognition for their contributions to Michigan’s economy.
The NVBDC was founded to address a critical gap: ensuring veteran business owners receive the same level of opportunities and recognition as other diverse business groups through veteran business certification. Under the leadership of Keith King, Founder & CEO of NVBDC, the organization has become the gold standard for Michigan Celebrates Small Business, giving veteran entrepreneurs access to corporate and government contracting opportunities.
Keith King has dedicated his career to advocating for veteran entrepreneurs, not just veteran business certification. His efforts have not gone unnoticed—he was named the State of Michigan, Midwest Regional, and National Veteran Small Business Champion by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), making history as the first veteran from Michigan to ever win the National Champion award.
As stated in the SBA award letter:
“Specifically, you have combined your professional and entrepreneurial career with your passion to assist veterans, especially veteran entrepreneurs, not only in the Detroit area but across our great state and the nation. Through your position as National Public Affairs Chairman of the Vietnam Veterans of America and as a member of the Economic Opportunity Committee, you helped promote the idea of veteran-owned businesses throughout the country. Your involvement with Vet Force and their interaction with all of the Veteran Service Organizations helped to create the first Veteran Business Owners Conference.”
Keith King’s legacy is embedded in NVBDC’s mission, ensuring that veteran business owners are not just recognized but also empowered with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to compete and thrive in the marketplace.
By joining the MCSB advisory committee, NVBDC strengthens its efforts to:
- Increase awareness of veteran entrepreneurs and their economic impact.
- Provide access to corporate and government contracting opportunities.
- Expand networking and mentorship programs to help veteran-owned businesses grow.
- Advocate for policies and initiatives that support veteran entrepreneurship.
Veterans bring discipline, leadership, and a mission-focused approach to business, making them invaluable contributors to Michigan’s thriving small business community. Through veteran business certification, advocacy, and partnerships, NVBDC ensures that veteran-owned businesses receive meaningful economic opportunities.
About Michigan Celebrates Small Business
Since its inception, Michigan Celebrates Small Business has been a cornerstone of entrepreneurial recognition in the state, highlighting the achievements of small businesses and connecting them with essential resources.
A key component of this initiative is the Michigan Celebrates Small Business Awards Gala, an annual event that honors outstanding businesses and provides a platform for networking, learning, and celebrating success. This event brings together business leaders, policymakers, and organizations committed to fostering small business growth.
Strengthening Michigan’s Small Business Ecosystem
The partnership between NVBDC and MCSB represents a powerful step in ensuring that veteran business owners receive the recognition, support, and resources they deserve. By working alongside other leading organizations, NVBDC continues to advocate for veterans, helping them turn their business aspirations into reality.
