Veteran Business Project

Creating opportunities. Strengthening communities. Empowering veterans.

Veteran Business Project is working to expand veteran business ownership throughout Chicago by helping veterans acquire and lead existing local businesses across the city.

This initiative connects veterans with mentorship, business resources, and transition support while also helping retiring business owners preserve the legacy they’ve built through trusted new leadership.

The result is stronger neighborhoods, continued local economic growth, and more veteran-owned businesses making an impact in every Chicago ward.

Learn more and join the mission: https://hubs.ly/Q04jNV9v0

We're proud to welcome Raymond Jakubiak as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Veteran Business Project.

A decorated Green Beret, CPA, and veteran finance leader, Raymond brings the experience and vision to help VBP reach more veterans and strengthen small businesses across our communities.

https://veteranbusinessproject.org/veteran-business-project-welcomes-raymond-jakubiak-as-executive-vice-president-chief-financial-officer/

From Marine Corps service in Iraq to crafting custom woodwork in Bolingbrook, Drew Katchmar has turned discipline and creativity into a new mission.

After leaving the military and working in law enforcement and the private sector, Drew launched DK Custom Woodwork in 2020—building handcrafted cutting boards, cocktail smokers, and more into a growing full-time business.

What started in a garage is now a thriving brand built on craftsmanship, independence, and veteran grit.

Read the full story: https://hubs.ly/Q04jPfrd0