It’s Native American Heritage Month all November, and to celebrate, we’re looking at some of the standout founders from the broad portfolio of Entrepreneurship programs here at the D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF). These incredible companies are leading the way in a variety of industries, and showcase the diverse talents and contributions from the Native American veteran and military spouse entrepreneurship community to America’s business landscape.
We encourage you to read about these successful entrepreneurs and explore their businesses. Pay specific attention to their asks of our community. If you can connect with them or connect them to someone who can help them reach the next level, take the extra step and reach out!
We’d also like to acknowledge that Syracuse University and IVMF’s National Veteran Resource Center (NVRC) reside on the traditional, ancestral lands of the Onondaga Nation, firekeepers of the Haudenosaunee. Just this month, the Onondaga Nation reclaimed 1,000 acres of land, and Onondaga attorney Joe Heath has worked with Syracuse University to restore the waters with trout and provide a homecoming for the endangered Chittenango ovate amber snail.
Princess Lopez
Army Veteran
Nexus Procurement Solutions
ViR Alum
At Nexus Procurement Solutions, we specialize in connecting businesses with the critical resources and expertise they need to thrive in today’s dynamic market. Whether you require top-tier talent, robust cybersecurity measures, streamlined supply chain management, or expert project management, we deliver tailored, integrated solutions that drive success. Our holistic approach ensures that each service we provide is aligned with your business goals, creating a seamless experience that optimizes efficiency, enhances security, and fosters growth.
Princess’ Ask: Nexus Procurement Solutions is looking to expand its network with entrepreneurs and business entities. We are also seeking to venture into government contracting and would like to partner with prime or subcontractors in collaboration on future projects.
Rick Schmidt
Navy Veteran
Tipping Point Solutions
Veteran EDGE Alum
Tipping Point Solutions Inc. (TPS) is a Native American 8(a) Disadvantaged and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) specializing in the development of innovative, high-engagement, training and educational products. We deliver custom training solutions that support both traditional face-to-face environments and cutting-edge virtual and online platforms. From analysis through the full development lifecycle, TPS creates training products at all levels of interactivity, with expertise that spans augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) solutions. Our comprehensive approach ensures clients receive tailored, effective learning experiences that drive measurable results. TPS’s commitment to quality and innovation empowers organizations to enhance training outcomes, making us the trusted partner for a wide range of clients, including federal agencies and defense sectors.
Rick’s Ask: As a fellow veteran-owned business, Tipping Point Solutions Inc. (TPS) is seeking strategic partnerships and collaborations within the IVMF entrepreneurial community to expand our reach and impact in the training and education sector. We’re looking to connect with fellow veteran entrepreneurs, investors, and organizations interested in teaming up for government contracting opportunities, or who can benefit from our expertise in creating custom training products. Whether it’s referrals to new clients, joint ventures on training projects, or connecting with potential customers in the federal or commercial space, we’re eager to explore how our unique capabilities can drive success together. Let’s leverage our shared military experiences to create new opportunities and make a lasting impact!
Chandler Archuleta
Air Force Veteran
Crooz Coaching, LLC
EBV Alum
Let’s be creative, resourceful, and whole as we navigate life’s transitions. Crooz Coaching’s cruise ship program transforms confusion into clarity, fostering personal and professional growth. Let’s partner so you can confidently achieve your dreams with group coaching, tailored goal planning, and continuous follow-up.
Chandler’s Ask: Connect us with business partners in cruise ship travel. If you know anyone going through a life transition, please let them know about our onboard and virtual services available at www.croozcoaching.com. Join our adventure at Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.
Dr. Mecca Nelson
Army Spouse
Mecca’s City of Wholeness
Boots to Business, EDGE, EBV-F, V-WISE, and ViR Alum
Have you ever experienced trauma, grief, or the loss of a loved one? At Mecca’s City of Wholeness (MCOW), we understand the challenges of healing. Founded by Dr. Mecca Nelson, an award-winning health and wellness entrepreneur and Certified Minority Women-Owned Business Enterprise, our mission is deeply inspired by her personal journey following the loss of her husband, Expert Infantryman U.S. Army Sgt. Mario Nelson, who lost his life in combat in 2006.
Dr. Mecca has developed the YOMA Method, a holistic approach that integrates yoga, martial arts, and meditation with principles of Chinese medicine to promote healing. We offer trauma-informed mental health mindfulness through engaging workshops and training sessions.
Our impact is significant—over 80 Department of Education teachers have been trained to implement the YOMA Method in their classrooms, creating safe environments that foster emotional well-being. Together, we can empower individuals and communities to heal and thrive. Join us on the journey to wholeness and resilience!
Mecca’s Ask: Mecca’s City of Wholeness is seeking assistance in obtaining accreditation for our comprehensive training program focused on the YOMA Method. We aim to provide professionals with essential resources, tools, and materials needed to effectively implement this holistic approach.
We need support in developing a structured plan that outlines the necessary components for accreditation, including aligning our training with industry standards and best practices. Additionally, we are looking for expertise in marketing strategies to promote the program effectively to our target audience.
Your assistance in building out the platform and creating the required training materials will be invaluable in executing this initiative. Together, we can empower professionals to enhance their skills in trauma-informed care and mindfulness, ultimately fostering emotional well-being in the communities they serve. Join us in this important mission to make a lasting impact through the YOMA Method!
Support Native American Veteran and Military Spouse-owned Businesses
IVMF’s entrepreneurship programs welcome all veterans and military spouses ready to start their own business, including those from the Native American community, chase their American Dream. We meet entrepreneurs where they’re at in their journey, from those with little more than an idea to serial entrepreneurs planning their latest exit strategy.
Ready to start your entrepreneurial journey with IVMF? Explore our portfolio of entrepreneurship programming, much of it available virtually or at locations across the country. Find the program to help your business take the next step today!