Women Veterans Giving - Small Business Award

Melissa Washington

Small Business Award

The Melissa Washington Small Business Award (MWSBA) is an annual award. The award will be up to $5,000 and will be up to the discretion of the awards committee and Women Veterans Giving Board of Directors.

Application Period

May 5 – June 5, 2025

Three finalists will be announced the week of July 28, and each will join us at The Unconference, taking place September 26–28 in Irving, Texas.

This is your opportunity to take your business to the next level. We can’t wait to support another incredible woman veteran entrepreneur.

It's important to note that after a year of quarterly awards, we're returning to our original annual award format. If you submitted an application between January 1, 2025, and now, you will automatically be considered.

Here's a brief overview of the application process:

·  Eligibility: The MWSBA is awarded to a woman veteran to start or expand her business.

·  Submission: Applications to be submitted through our website during the submission period.

·  Criteria: We're seeking individuals who demonstrate innovation, resilience, and a commitment to making a positive impact through their ventures.

·  Grant: Recipients will receive up to $5,000, assessment, coaching, certificate of recognition, MWSBA brooch and other benefits.

Required documents to be uploaded within application:

· P&L or Tax Return

· Professional Headshot

Important Note for Applicants:

The Melissa Washington Small Business Award will be presented during the Women Veterans Alliance Unconference on September 27, 2025, at the Omni Las Colinas in Irving, Texas.

Finalists must attend the Unconference in person. Women Veteran Giving will cover Unconference registration for each finalist; however, travel and lodging expenses are the responsibility of the finalist.

MWSBA Committee Members:

Chairwoman Jennifer Vollbrecht, Marine Corps (2020 Recipient)

Ashley Gorbulja, Army (2023 Recipient)

Leanne Babcock, Air Force Reserves (2019 Recipient)

Beth Beeson, Marine Corps (2018 Recipient)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I have to already have an established business? No
I am still on active duty do I qualify? Yes
Since I am only in the start up stages, I do not have any any tax returns or P&Ls. What can I do? Submit your financial projections.
I do not have a professional headshot. Can I submit a regular photo? Any photo will work. Just be advised, if you are selected as a finalist, this photo will be shared widely!

Congratulations to our Q4 2024 MWSBA Awardee!

Maggie Peterson

Air Force Veteran

Founder & CEO

After Military Service, DBA Camp SHiEld

"This award will significantly enhance our ability to grow in several key areas.” The recognition will elevate the organization’s visibility and credibility, helping it connect with more veterans in need and attract new supporters and donors. “It will serve as a powerful endorsement of the work we do and the impact we’ve had,” she adds.