Veteran Entrepreneurs Take the Virtual Stage at Warrior Rising’s Pitch Competition

Eight bold Veteran founders stepped into the spotlight this June during Warrior Rising’s Virtual Business Shower, each delivering a powerful 7-minute pitch for a shot at a $20,000 grant and life-changing visibility for their business.

This event wasn’t just a competition—it was a celebration of what’s possible when discipline, purpose, and innovation collide. Each of these Veterans represents the next generation of founders, creators, and leaders building legacies beyond the uniform.

John Matecki – Founder, Whiskermen (Ohio)

After serving in the U.S. military, John launched Whiskermen, a veteran-owned grooming brand rooted in confidence, craftsmanship, and natural self-care. His mission? Help men grow better beards—while uplifting the military and veteran communities with pride and purpose.

Dr. Laketia “J” Johnson – Founder, 42 Klicks (Colorado Springs)

A holistic health leader and daughter, wife, and niece of Army veterans, Dr. J has transformed lives through chiropractic care, acupuncture, and nutrition. Her clinic, 42 Klicks, reflects her passion for resilience—serving those who serve through integrated wellness.

Darren Dunn – Founder, The Men’s Warrior Line 

Darren’s “wrist armor” bracelets are more than accessories—they’re a movement. Inspired by Psalm 144:1, his rugged, faith-based jewelry empowers men with purpose, strength, and spiritual identity. He’s on a mission to uplift families, men in recovery, and fellow veterans through bold design and meaningful employment.

Kent Fletcher – Co-Founder, T11, Inc. (South Carolina)

As a Marine Corps veteran and tech visionary, Kent leads T11, a company reinventing protective headgear to prevent injuries in sports. With deep ties to innovation and mental health advocacy, Kent is driving change across industries while mentoring the next wave of veteran entrepreneurs.

Jasmine Rush – Founder, Rush Media 

From Navy service to multi-hyphenate creative, Jasmine is a storyteller, author, speaker, and visual artist using her voice to connect and empower. Through media, coaching, and advocacy, she’s helping others find and share their own stories with authenticity and impact.

John Khazraee – Founder, InvestWise (San Francisco, CA)

With a background in engineering and tech, John created InvestWise, an AI-powered platform helping commercial property owners avoid massive compliance fines. His work helps fellow veterans and entrepreneurs future-proof their assets and meet sustainability mandates with confidence.

Lori Patton O’Hara – Founder, Design5sixty4 (Colorado)

As a creative strategist and design leader, Lori combines graphic design expertise with strategic brand development. Her work supports both local businesses and larger organizations, and she continues to lead the next generation of creatives through education and advisory leadership.

Donnie, an Army combat veteran and founder of Legalize Docs Plus, delivered a standout pitch that earned him 1st Place and the $20,000 grant.

Based in Ionia, Michigan, Legalize Docs Plus offers remote notarization, fingerprinting, document authentication, and apostille services—all essential for government, employment, and licensing needs. Donnie’s business stands out not only for its innovation and scalability, but for its commitment to secure, accessible services for veterans and civilians alike.

His clarity of mission, operational readiness, and drive to serve made him the ideal recipient of this year’s top prize.

As part of his prize package, Donnie will also receive pro bono support from Veteran Benefits Guide (VBG) to help him continue building a business rooted in integrity, service, and impact.