National Veterans Small Business Week Focuses on Charleston's Veteran-Owned Shops
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) — The U.S. Small Business Administration’s 13th annual National Veterans Small Business Week kicks off on Monday, coinciding with Veterans Day. The weeklong celebration highlights several veteran-owned businesses in downtown Charleston.
This year’s theme, "Honoring Veteran-Owned, American Made", pays tribute to the approximately 1.6 million veteran-owned small businesses across the nation. Charleston, with its strong military ties, is home to a vibrant community of veteran entrepreneurs.
Kevin Sheilley, president and CEO of the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce, emphasizes the importance of supporting these businesses: "We want people to support small businesses generally. But I think for our veteran-owned small businesses, why do we want them here? Why is that so important? [...] We understand in this community, maybe more so than most, how important their service has been and we want to continue to honor that."
The Metro Chamber partners with The Citadel’s veteran business opportunity center to empower aspiring veteran entrepreneurs with the necessary resources.
Darren Hartford, a 28-year veteran and former Air Force pilot, owns Oliver Pluff & Company Tea Shop. He attributes his entrepreneurial skills to his military background, citing a strong mission, goal, and objective, along with problem-solving and a positive attitude as key aspects of both.
Hartford’s shop offers a unique experience, sharing stories of the Charleston Tea Party and Lowcountry history through its tea and coffee products. "Buying veteran-made products keeps dollars local and keeps vital stories alive," he notes.
The Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce is launching the Kauffman Fast Track, a free, 10-week program for anyone looking to start a small business, beginning in January.
National Veterans Small Business Week runs until November 13, but supporting veteran entrepreneurs is a year-round effort.