In the dynamic world of business, there are individuals whose unwavering dedication and tireless efforts transcend conventional success. Keith King, an iconic leader and the Founder & CEO of the esteemed National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC), embodies this exceptional spirit. With an illustrious career spanning over four decades, Keith has passionately championed the cause of his fellow Veterans, propelled by his personal conviction that he was among the fortunate few to have survived his Vietnam tour and “made it home.”
Harnessing his profound sense of duty and an unwavering commitment to empowering Veterans, Keith spearheaded the development of the pioneering third-party Veteran Business Certification program in the United States. Its unparalleled acceptance by esteemed members of the Billion Dollar Roundtable has solidified its status as the gold standard in the industry. In 2014, he propelled this groundbreaking Certification program to national prominence, unlocking unprecedented opportunities for Veteran-owned businesses across the nation.
Keith King’s remarkable journey is one of resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of justice for those who have served. Join us as we delve into the extraordinary life and accomplishments of this iconic leader, whose unwavering mission is revolutionizing veteran entrepreneurship and empowerment, one certification at a time.
A Quest for Equity
After dedicating years to pursuing Federal and State government contracts, Keith became increasingly disenchanted with the arbitrary methods employed for awarding these contracts. Witnessing bids intended for small disabled veteran-owned businesses being given to companies that clearly did not meet the criteria, Keith decided to file a protest. However, he was disheartened to discover that his “victory” only resulted in the contract being re-bid, without any consideration for his own eligibility. This experience made him realize that he was not operating on a level playing field.
During this period, Keith King learned about a program called “supplier diversity” offered by many corporations, which aimed to support minority and women-owned businesses. This piqued his curiosity and led him to question why veterans were not included in such initiatives. He wanted to understand the reasons behind this exclusion and determine what steps needed to be taken to bring about a change.
Overcoming Obstacles
Once Keith King began engaging in discussions with corporations about supplier diversity and the exclusion of veteran businesses, two main issues quickly surfaced. The first challenge was to address why veterans should be included in supplier diversity initiatives and what factors contributed to their “disadvantaged” status. In 2012, Keith authored a document titled “The Rationale for Veteran-Owned Businesses to be Included in Corporate Supplier Diversity Programs,” which presented compelling data on economic disadvantages, educational disparities, and career obstacles faced by veterans. This document helped the corporations understand the need for inclusion.
After the corporations accepted the rationale, the second hurdle was establishing a certification program that met their standards. To address this need, the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC) was founded in 2013. The NVBDC’s primary objective was to identify and certify both service-disabled and veteran-owned businesses (SD/VOBs) in the commercial marketplace, aligning with supplier diversity industry best practices. They implemented a rigorous certification process designed to meet the scrutiny of governmental and corporate entities seeking to engage certified SD/VOBs.
In April 2014, the NVBDC conducted its Certification process testing, involving representatives from prominent entities such as GM, Ford, Chrysler, Kellogg’s, WBENC, NMSDC, VBOC, SCORE, and the VA. Receiving collective approval from these organizations, the NVBDC launched its certification program while simultaneously working on the development of an online certification system. This online platform was nationally released in June 2015, further streamlining the certification process for veteran-owned businesses.
Journey of Support for Vietnam Veterans
Keith began his journey of helping fellow veterans as a volunteer in the late 1980s. He had the opportunity to meet a small group of Vietnam Veterans who were attempting to establish a local chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA). Working in the inner city of Detroit, they soon encountered homeless veterans, witnessed the effects of what would later be recognized as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and discovered veterans suffering from unusual and deadly forms of cancer that were unfamiliar to them.
During this time, they also uncovered the truth about Agent Orange, realizing that they had been deceived by the misinformation surrounding its dangers. The media, and particularly movies, continued to perpetuate negative stereotypes, portraying Vietnam Veterans as drug-addicted and violent individuals.
In light of these challenges, Keith and his fellow Vietnam Veterans recognized the urgent need to organize and support each other. They understood that if they didn’t take the initiative to help their fellow veterans, nobody else would. Keith considers himself fortunate to have returned home and reintegrated into society with relative ease, acknowledging that many others faced significant difficulties in their transition.
From Witness to Advocate
Through his service, Keith King witnessed the profound impact of war on individuals. He served alongside young soldiers whose innocence quickly faded as they faced the harsh realities of combat. The transformation from fresh-faced youngsters to hardened and embittered individuals occurred within a matter of months. These experiences deeply affected Keith, and he realized that if he had the capacity to assist his fellow veterans, he had a moral obligation to do so. The stark evidence of man’s inhumanity to man motivated him to take action and provide support to those who had endured the hardships of war.
Call to Action
Keith emphasizes the importance of seemingly small gestures like saying “Welcome home” or “Thank you for your service” to veterans. These simple expressions of gratitude can make a significant impact on their well-being and sense of acknowledgment.
He also emphasizes the critical need to support the funding of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and to communicate this support to legislators. Keith King highlights that there is a widespread misunderstanding about the level of medical care provided by the VA. Many hospitals and smaller facilities lack sufficient staff to meet the healthcare needs of veterans, and it is crucial to advocate for improved resources and support for these institutions.
To his fellow veterans, Keith delivers a message encouraging them to recognize that their life experiences differ greatly from the majority of Americans. Combat veterans, in particular, have undergone life-altering changes as a result of their service. While their experiences may never be fully understood by civilians, it is important for veterans to accept the appreciation expressed by non-military individuals. Keith urges veterans to take pride in their service, as it is an act that few people would willingly volunteer for.
Empowering Veterans
The National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC) organizes two annual events that serve as platforms for certified veteran-owned businesses to engage in direct contact and one-on-one meetings with corporate members. These events provide valuable networking opportunities for both parties, fostering business connections and collaborations.
In addition to these events, the NVBDC offers ongoing training programs and educational webinars that provide guidance on the intricacies of doing business, specifically tailored to the needs of its certified veteran-owned businesses. These resources aim to equip veterans with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the business landscape successfully.
A unique program offered by the NVBDC is their focus on “future veterans.” This initiative involves a national scholarship program for high school seniors who are active in the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) and are preparing to pursue higher education. By providing scholarships to these promising students, the NVBDC supports their aspirations and recognizes their dedication to serving their country.
Through these various programs and initiatives, the NVBDC demonstrates its commitment to supporting veteran-owned businesses, fostering connections between veterans and corporate members, and investing in the education and development of future generations of veterans.
Family, Supporters, and Future Aspirations of the NVBDC
Keith’s greatest source of pride is his wife of 53 years, his children, grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. While the great-grand children have not been directly involved in his veteran activities, Keith King expresses gratitude for the involvement and support he has received from his family.
He also takes immense pride in the individuals who have lent their names, talents, and, in some cases, financial support to bring the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC) to life. Despite the existence of skeptics, Keith finds pride in those who share his vision and belief in the NVBDC’s purpose.
Another group that Keith holds in high regard is the corporations that not only provided guidance on the steps required for acceptance into their supplier diversity programs but also followed through with their promised support. Their commitment to supporting veteran-owned businesses is a testament to their dedication and integrity.
Looking to the future, Keith King envisions international expansion for the NVBDC, indicating the organization’s aspirations to broaden its reach and impact beyond national boundaries.
Finding Purpose in Veteran Volunteering
Keith’s advice to someone who wishes to get involved in volunteering for veterans but is unsure where to begin is to start by identifying a cause or purpose that resonates with them personally. With numerous organizations dedicated to assisting veterans and their families, there are many avenues to contribute.
Keith King recalls his own experience as a young child, visiting the local cemetery on Memorial Day to place flags on the graves of veterans. During one of these ceremonies, he was approached by an older woman who referred to him as a “young man.” This simple act made him feel a sense of accomplishment and purpose for the first time. This memory highlights the significance of finding a cause or activity that provides a similar sense of fulfillment and impact.
By reflecting on one’s own interests, experiences, and passions, individuals can identify specific areas within the realm of veteran support that they feel strongly about. Whether it’s volunteering at a local veterans’ organization, providing assistance to homeless veterans, supporting mental health initiatives, or any other cause, choosing a purpose close to one’s heart can help guide one toward meaningful and rewarding volunteering opportunities.
