Southwest Michigan First Veteran Series

Join Southwest Michigan First Chamber for a lunchtime program focused on the real paths veterans take when building and growing a business after military service. This session features a live panel discussion with veteran entrepreneurs who will share their challenges, lessons learned, and the opportunities that helped them scale their work in Southwest Michigan.

You will hear firsthand insights from leaders across multiple industries, followed by practical guidance on certifications, procurement pathways, and state and federal resources that support veteran-owned businesses.

What You Will Learn

• How veterans transitioned their military skills into successful business ownership
• Common challenges faced in the early stages and how to navigate them
• Strategies for growth, community visibility, and building customer trust
• How certification programs can open new doors for veteran-owned businesses
• Local support systems and partners ready to help you take the next step

Featured Moderator

Tim Westrate
United States Army Veteran
Regional Director, AT&T Business
Tim brings a mission-focused leadership lens and extensive experience in technology, workforce, and community development.

Panelists

Brian Methner, MBA
United States Marine Corps Veteran
Founder and Managing Partner, Kalamazoo Mortgage

Michael Hyacinthe
United States Navy Veteran
Co-Founder and Chairman, HAS HEART

Dr. Turnera Croom
United States Army Veteran
Holistic Veterinarian and Founder, Army Vet Services

Brian Schultz
United States Marine Corps Veteran
Owner, The Puppy Playground
2024 Chamber Veteran-Owned Business of the Year

Additional Presentation

Following the panel, Southwest Michigan APEX Accelerator will provide a short presentation on procurement readiness, certification pathways, and tools that help veteran-owned businesses compete for government and corporate contracts.

Who Should Attend

• Veterans exploring entrepreneurship
• Current veteran business owners looking to grow
• Service members preparing for transition
• Community partners who support veterans in business

Reserve Your Spot

This is a free program for veterans. Space is limited. Register today to secure your seat and lunch.

Contact Information

For questions, please contact:
Kevin Crittenden
269-553-9588 | kcrittenden@southwestmichiganfirst.com