From the moment our nation was born, veterans have been builders. Their courage on the battlefield during the Revolutionary War didn’t just win our independence, it laid the foundation for the greatest democracy and most powerful economy the world has ever known.
That spirit of service and sacrifice has carried forward through every generation since. Whether defending freedom abroad or strengthening communities at home, veterans have always stood at the heart of America’s progress. They built our infrastructure, powered our industries, and continue to drive the innovation that keeps our nation strong.
When they hang up the uniform, veterans don’t stop serving, they simply find new missions. In business, technology, public service, and beyond, they bring the same discipline, adaptability, and sense of purpose that defined their military careers. Veterans know how to lead under pressure, solve complex problems, and inspire teams toward a common goal, qualities that every organization, from startups to federal agencies, depends on.
Their impact on our economy is profound. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, there are more than 2.5 million veteran-owned businesses across the country, employing over 5 million Americans and generating more than $1 trillion in annual revenue. From logistics to manufacturing, cybersecurity to defense technology, veterans are driving innovation across industries that form the backbone of our nation’s prosperity and security.
“Veteran entrepreneurs are the embodiment of American leadership and innovation”
– Carlos Romero (USMC)
History is filled with examples of veterans who transformed industries and redefined what’s possible. Marine Corps veteran Fred Smith founded FedEx and changed global logistics forever. Army veteran Phil Knight co-founded Nike, igniting a cultural and economic movement. Countless others, many unknown by name, built companies, led communities, and helped shape the American way of life. Veterans are not just defenders of freedom, they are the architects of opportunity.
Today, that legacy continues. A new generation of veteran entrepreneurs and technologists is leading the charge in fields like artificial intelligence, renewable energy, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing. Many of these innovations are dual-use technologies that serve both national security and commercial applications. Veterans are uniquely equipped to bridge these worlds, applying mission-focused thinking to solve complex challenges that matter.
At eMerge Americas, we’re proud to carry that mission forward. Through our Veteran & National Security Innovation Program, we’re helping veterans transform their leadership and technical experience into ventures that strengthen our economy and our national resilience.
Our year-round programming connects innovators with capital, mentorship, and opportunities across government, industry, and academia. By integrating veterans into the broader tech ecosystem, we’re not just supporting their success, we’re strengthening the nation’s innovation engine.
Florida, with its deep military roots and growing defense-tech community, is uniquely positioned to lead this effort. Home to 21 military installations, three Combatant Commands, and one of the largest veteran populations in the country, the state serves as both a gateway to the Americas and a hub for critical technology development. At eMerge, we’re proud to unite these assets, linking public and private sectors to accelerate innovation that protects our nation while driving economic growth.
As we celebrate Veterans Day, let’s remember that veterans didn’t just fight for this country, they built it. Their leadership, ingenuity, and grit have shaped every chapter of America’s story, and their contributions continue to fuel our progress today.
At eMerge Americas, we’re committed to ensuring that the next generation of veterans continues to lead, innovate, and build, just as they always have. Because when veterans succeed, America thrives.
To all who have served and continue to serve, thank you for building, protecting, and inspiring this great nation. To learn more or register to join us in empowering the next generation of veteran innovators shaping America’s future, click here.
As eMerge Americas continues to evolve, we’re more committed than ever to fostering collaboration, sparking innovation, and highlighting the transformative power of Florida’s thriving tech ecosystem.
