The Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce recently announced the five winners of the organization’s first Veteran Business Awards at the Wisconsin Veterans Business Conference.

The Veteran Business Awards recognize leading veteran owned and veteran friendly businesses and organizations, and their contributions to Wisconsin’s veteran business community.

The Wisconsin Veterans Business Conference combined a business expo featuring veteran owned and veteran friendly businesses from across Wisconsin; workshops featuring experts and leaders in entrepreneurship, business development, hiring and retention, and community engagement; and an awards luncheon. Founded in 2015, the Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce is Wisconsin’s only membership based veteran business organization with more than 140 members.

The Veteran Business Award winners are:

  • Veteran Owned Business of the Year: Spa Massage on the Go
  • Veteran Friendly Business of the Year: Float Milwaukee
  • Veteran Nonprofit Partner of the Year: USO Wisconsin
  • Veteran University Partner of the Year: Concordia University Wisconsin
  • Veteran Corporate Partner of the Year: PNC Bank

“These Veteran Business Award winners have each helped to grow and support Wisconsin’s veteran business community.” said Saul Newton, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce. “Our economy, our communities, and our state are stronger when veterans succeed. We are proud to recognize these leaders and the work they’ve done to expand economic opportunity for military veterans, military service members, and military families.”

“Spa Massage on the Go helps those who are stuck in their home, hospital or facility that have no other health options,” said Jessica Dragan, owner of Spa Massage on the Go and U.S. Army veteran. “My four years in the U.S. Military has taught me how to lead others to deliver results and exceed expectations Service is at the heart of our business, and we are proud to receive this award.”

“We are so honored to be receiving this award,” said Andy Larson, owner of Float Milwaukee. “Float is excited to be a part of the Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce and will continue its mission of spreading awareness throughout the veteran community of the possible benefits floating can have in helping to treat things like PTSD, anxiety, chronic pain, insomnia, and stress.”

“USO Wisconsin helps connect businesses and corporate partners with our military service members, veterans, and their families. Our goals are to help military families stay connected, relieve stress, and help military transition into civilian life,” said Josh Sova, Executive Director of USO Wisconsin. “We are honored and humbled to be one of the organizations recognized by the Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce.”

“Creating opportunities for veterans is crucial to our success not only as regional business leaders, but in the communities we serve. We appreciate the values, leadership and unique skills service members bring to create a diverse and inclusive workforce in our state,” said Chris Goller, PNC Regional President for Wisconsin, “We’re honored to receive this award and will continue our pledge to support veterans with the tools and resources they need to succeed in their career transitions.”

Award winners were recognized at the Wisconsin Veterans Business Conference on Thursday, May 25 at Concordia University Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting military veterans, veteran-owned and veteran-friendly businesses.

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Float Milwaukee