Every year brings more support for the annual Veteran Expo to support businesses owned by veterans and entrepreneurs, and this year was no different.
Town of Petawawa economic development coordinator Rudy Kadlec says roughly 350 people came out this year to show their support for the Expo, and that translates extremely well into the local community.
“Petawawa is truly a military town, and we have so many veteran owned businesses and organizations in our community,” he says. “With so many transition members in the community we feel it’s very important to support them and encourage the public to raise awareness that some people may not know about.”
Kadlec says having the Expo takes a “two-pronged” approach, as it benefits veterans but also helps boost the local economy.
“The businesses create jobs in our community and give back through business ownership and entrepreneurship, which is why it’s so important to continue supporting these businesses in the community,” he says.
The event coincides with Veterans Week and Remembrance Day; Kadlec says that’s why it’s so important to highlight the Expo and all that happens to generate businesses owned by veterans.
In addition to the Expo, the Town of Petawawa also provides support for veteran owned companies including the Banner Program and supports members of the military transitioning to opening their own company.
Town of Petawawa economic development manager Christine Mitchell says this year was a huge success, and many businesses benefited from the Expo.
“Many businesses sold out of their products, and that is very exciting,” she says. “We’re thrilled to support our small – local – businesses, and in this particular occasion our veterans and serving them.”
