About CVBO
The Chicagoland Veteran Business Owners Group (CVBO) is a nonprofit organization created by and for veterans, military spouses, and military family entrepreneurs in the greater Chicago area.
Our goal is to help veteran and military family-owned businesses succeed by connecting them with resources, education, and a strong community.
Our Mission
The Chicagoland Veteran Business Owners (CVBO) supports veterans and military-connected families in Chicagoland by offering networking, business education, mentorship, and free resources for capital and advising, empowering them to build profitable, scalable, and resilient businesses.
Who We Serve
We welcome all veteran-owned businesses, veteran entrepreneurs, veteran freelancers, self-employed veterans, military spouse entrepreneurs, and military family entrepreneurs in the Chicagoland area. We also include individuals and organizations that want to help veteran and military family entrepreneurs succeed.
Our Programs
CVBO offers a range of programs designed to help veteran and military family business owners grow and thrive:
Networking
- Monthly Online Meetings: Connect with fellow business owners, share ideas, and build relationships from anywhere.
- Quarterly In-Person Gatherings: Meet face-to-face for deeper networking, collaboration, and community building.
Business Education
- Workshops, training sessions, and webinars on business development, marketing, finance, and more.
Mentorship
- Pairing experienced business leaders with newer entrepreneurs for guidance and support.
Advocacy
- Representing the interests of veteran and military family entrepreneurs in the community.
Resources
- Helping members find funding, get certified as veteran-owned or military spouse-owned businesses, and access city and state programs.
Community Events & Initiatives
- Organizing events and initiatives that bring veteran and military family business owners together for mutual support and growth.
Four Star Labs (Coming Soon)
- A comprehensive suite of entrepreneurship programs designed to support Chicagoland veterans at every stage of their business journey—from idea validation and business planning to growth and rapid scaling.
Our Leadership
CVBO is guided by a Board of Directors that provides strategic oversight, sets policy, and supports our mission. Our Board includes:
- Aaron Welch – Founder & President
- David Roman – Co-Founder, Secretary & Director of Governance
Our Status
CVBO is proud to be a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit. This means we can accept tax-deductible donations and apply for grants to help us serve even more veteran and military family business owners.
Join Us
If you’re a veteran, military spouse, or military family entrepreneur—or want to support them in Chicagoland—we invite you to join us. Together, we can build a stronger, more successful community.
Join CVBO Today
Membership is free and only takes a few minutes to get started. Add your voice, your experience, and your business to a community that is stronger together.