Our story

The New York State Veterans Chamber of Commerce (The Chamber) was organized with the intent of serving and supporting the veteran business community in our state, as well as to give veteran owned businesses a single and powerful voice at the state level. Through advocacy and service, the Chamber can have a material impact on the life of veteran’s, their families, gold star families and the businesses they own and operate. The Chamber’s mission is broken into four verticals, each with a distinct focus.

Programming – The Chamber’s programming mission is to provide relevant educational opportunities through summits, conferences, and webinars on contracting, accreditation, and procurement. These educational opportunities are offered at various times and locations, both in person and virtual, with the goal of connecting veteran owned businesses with the right individuals or champions in each part of the federal government in order to increase their reach and opportunities for contracting.

Philanthropy – The Chamber will advocate and raise money for programs and charities that focus on veteran services. Those services will include, but not limited to, veteran homelessness, Gold Star families, transition to private life and mental illness. Our veterans proudly served our country and deserve access to services to improve their quality of life.

Legislation – The Chamber will advocate for veterans in both chambers of the NY Legislature and each department. Our lobbying efforts will focus on veteran inclusion as disadvantaged entities, set aside programs, grant program funding, VA hospital issues and other issues as they arise.

Connectedness – The Chamber will play a vital role in bringing together veteran business to network and discover business opportunities. We will do this through our job board posting on the website, regular networking meetings held in regional locations and visibility at veteran events such as VETCON.

The Chamber will require funding in order to accomplish its mission. The Chamber’s sources of funds will come through three avenues: fundraising, corporate sponsorships and grants.

Fundraising – The Chamber will engage in various types of fundraising such as music festivals, sponsored casino nights, galas, golf outings and other events that are available.

Corporate Sponsorships – Many corporations have veteran friendly programs for the vets they hire. Many may be willing to support a state chamber that furthers their internal mission. The Chamber’s focus here will be local, regional and national companies. 

Grants – Many grants are available for organizations such the New York State Chamber of Commerce. The chamber will research and compile a list of those grants and maintain a schedule of when applications are due for each of the grants. Many grants are awarded on an annual basis giving The Chamber the opportunity to seek grants throughout the year.