NaVOBA

10/15/2026

Operation Matchmaker continues to deliver meaningful business connections.

Our Q3 2026 results speak for themselves:

↳ 16 Corporations participated
↳ 62 Veteran’s Business Enterprises® (VBEs) connected with buyers
↳ 69 matches found
↳ 36 one-on-one meetings held
↳ 56% of buyers identified an RFP, RFQ, or RFI opportunity
↳ 94% said the connections made will be beneficial for future business

At NaVOBA, we believe that the right introduction can lead to the next contract, partnership, or long-term business relationship. That’s exactly what Operation Matchmaker is designed to do.

Ready to connect with corporate buyers who are actively looking to engage their supply chain?

Register for the next Operation Matchmaker 👉 NaVOBA.com/matchmaker

10/14/2026

When a corporate customer says “YES,” will your business be ready to deliver?

Winning corporate contracts takes more than having the right capabilities. Corporate buyers want reliable, prepared suppliers who can meet their expectations.

In our latest blog, we break down five essential pillars of operational readiness, from financial controls and cybersecurity to insurance, compliance and supply continuity.

Discover how Veteran-Owned businesses can leverage their strengths, stand out to corporate buyers and turn opportunities into lasting partnerships.

Discover the five pillars of operational readiness that help Veteran-Owned businesses win corporate contracts and build lasting partnerships.

10/13/2026

Since 1775, the U.S. Navy has defended our nation, protected our freedoms and demonstrated unwavering courage, commitment and service.

Today, NaVOBA proudly honors the generations of Sailors who have served and continue to serve our country. We also recognize Navy Veterans who carry that same dedication, leadership and resilience into the business world.

Thank you for 251 years of service and sacrifice!

10/12/2026

Do you know who actually opens the door to a corporate opportunity?

Supplier engagement teams, procurement professionals and budget-holding business owners each play different roles in the process.

Join Rick Pina and NaVOBA on October 26 to learn how these audiences differ, who to approach and how to communicate the value your Veteran-Owned business can deliver.

Register today for Earning the Seat: Getting Your Veteran-Owned Business Into Corporate Supply Chains.

Register today 👉 https://www.navoba.org/mfm-edu

10/08/2026

NaVOBA was proud to honor Andrew Arbogast, Owner and Founder of Arbo's Cheese Dip, as the 2026 SDVBE® of the Year during the Disability:IN Global Conference & Expo in Dallas.

We also celebrated Jack Smith of Fortuna - Grow Thru Simplicity and David Iacarella of TALENT Healthcare Staffing, Inc. as 2026 SDVBE® We Love honorees.

Their stories are a powerful reflection of the resilience, leadership and determination that Veteran entrepreneurs bring to the business community every day.

NaVOBA celebrates Andrew Arbogast of Arbogast Foods as the 2026 Service-Disabled Veteran’s Business Enterprise® of the Year.

10/07/2026

Applications are open for CATAPULT 15!

Designed by Capital One, CATAPULT helps small businesses innovate, solve complex business challenges and develop new products or service solutions through courses, collaborative workshops, subject-matter experts and dedicated advisors.

The program runs January–June 2027 and culminates with an in-person pitch in McLean, VA.

📅 Apply by November 2, 2026.

Learn more and apply 👉️ https://www.navoba.org/catapult15

10/06/2026

NaVOBA is proud to support the National Veterans Small Business Engagement (NVSBE)!

Mark your calendars: December 8-9, 2026 at the Huntington Convention Center in Cleveland, Ohio. Kicking things off the evening before, a welcome reception on December 7 in the exhibit hall gets the connections started early.

This is where Veteran-Owned small businesses meet face to face with Procurement Decision Makers, government agencies, and industry leaders who are ready to do business.

Show up. Connect. Own the Opportunity.

Learn more 👉️ https://portal.vetbiz.va.gov/nvsbe/2026/

10/05/2026

Certification can help get your Veteran-Owned business noticed, but earning a purchase order requires more.

On October 26, join NaVOBA and Rick Pina of Inspired Solutions to learn what corporate gatekeepers are looking for when evaluating potential suppliers.

Discover how to lead with your capabilities, address a buyer's business needs and position your company to compete for corporate opportunities.

Register today 👉 https://www.navoba.org/mfm-edu

10/01/2026

Ready to earn your seat in corporate supply chains?

Join NaVOBA and Rick Pina, COO & CRO of Inspired Solutions, on October 26 for Earning the Seat: Getting Your Veteran-Owned Business Into Corporate Supply Chains.

Rick will share insights from both sides of the table to help Veteran-Owned businesses better understand how corporate procurement teams evaluate and select suppliers.

📅 October 26
🕜 2:00 p.m. EDT

Register today 👉 https://www.navoba.org/mfm-edu

09/30/2026

Don’t miss your chance to recognize an outstanding Veteran-Owned business for its leadership, success and impact.

If you know a Certified VBE that deserves the spotlight, submit your nomination today!

Nominate now 👉 https://www.navoba.org/vbeoy