Naperville welcomed a fresh chapter for veteran support when the Veteran Business Project held a ribbon cutting for its national headquarters in late November 2025. The event at CityGate Centre marks a big step in helping military veterans and spouses start businesses and find new purpose after service.
This move to 2020 Calamos Court comes as veteran entrepreneurship grows nationwide, with over 2.5 million veteran-owned businesses contributing billions to the economy each year. Leaders say the new space will boost training and resources for those transitioning from military life.
Ceremony Highlights Community Backing
Local leaders and veterans gathered for the ribbon cutting, led by Chief Executive Officer Lynn Lowder and President Dale Eisenberg. The celebration drew family, friends, and community members to the Calamos Investments building.
Attendees heard stories of hope and shared laughs over coffee. One guest noted how the event inspired her son, who plans to join the Coast Guard soon.
The Naperville Chamber of Commerce played a key role, with ambassadors like Lena Smolen praising the support for veteran-led firms. She called it a proud moment for the area.
Photos from the day show smiling faces and handshakes, capturing the warm spirit. Such events build networks that last beyond the day.
Mission Drives Veteran Success
The Veteran Business Project stands out as the only nonprofit offering direct help for veterans and spouses to own businesses. Founded by Lowder and Eisenberg, it focuses on purpose, ownership, and saving lives through work.
Veterans often face tough shifts after service, with unemployment rates hovering around 4 percent in 2025, down from higher levels post-pandemic. This group steps in with training and guidance.
Their work ties into broader trends, like the rise in veteran startups. Recent data shows these businesses grow faster than average, adding jobs in communities.
Success stories include veterans launching tech firms or local shops. The new headquarters will host workshops and one-on-one sessions to expand this impact.
Key Stats on Veteran Businesses
Veteran-owned companies make a strong mark on the U.S. economy. Here are some fresh numbers from 2025 reports:
- Over 2.5 million veteran-owned businesses operate nationwide.
- They generate about 1.2 trillion dollars in annual revenue.
- These firms employ nearly 5 million people.
- Growth rate stands at 3 percent yearly, outpacing many sectors.
| Statistic | 2025 Figure | Change from 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Businesses | 2.5 million | Up 2% |
| Annual Revenue | 1.2 trillion dollars | Up 5% |
| Jobs Created | 5 million | Steady |
| Startup Success Rate | 75% | Improved |
These figures highlight why groups like this matter. They turn military skills into business wins.
Recent Fundraiser Boosts Efforts
Just weeks before the ribbon cutting, the project hosted its second annual Valor to Venture fundraiser on November 6 at Meson Sabika in Naperville. The event raised funds for training programs.
Guests enjoyed food and talks from veterans who built thriving companies. It drew support from local businesses and drew attention to the cause.
This ties into national pushes, like government contracts for veteran firms. In 2025, federal spending on these businesses hit record highs, aiding growth.
Similar events popped up across states, from Wisconsin’s new VFW building dedication to Indiana’s veterans center tours. Naperville’s scene fits into this wave of support.
The fundraiser showed how community events fuel the mission. Plans for more gatherings aim to keep the momentum going.
Looking Ahead for National Impact
The new headquarters positions the project for wider reach. Leaders plan to add online tools and partner with more firms nationwide.
With veteran mental health in focus, especially after recent global events, this space offers a lifeline. Studies show business ownership cuts suicide risks by giving structure and goals.
Expansion could include satellite spots in other cities. For now, the Naperville hub serves as a model for others.
Supporters see it as a beacon for hope. As one co-founder put it, belief from partners like Calamos Real Estate made it possible.
What is next? More workshops and stories of veterans turning ideas into reality.
Share your thoughts on veteran support in the comments below, or pass this story to a friend who served. Your input helps spread the word and build stronger communities.
