Governor Lee Announces Program to Recognize Veteran-Ready Businesses

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – On Monday, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and Tennessee Department of Veterans Services Commissioner Tommy Baker announced the launch of the Tennessee Veteran Ready Business program. The initiative recognizes Tennessee businesses that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to recruiting, hiring and retaining military members, veterans and their families.

“The Tennessee Veteran Ready Business Recognition Program reinforces our state’s commitment to being the best place in the nation for veterans to live, work and raise a family,” said Governor Bill Lee. “This initiative not only honors their service, but also connects Tennessee employers with highly skilled individuals, creating economic opportunities throughout the state of Tennessee.”

The program will use a three-tier system – Bronze, Silver and Gold – to recognize companies based on their level of commitment and support to the veteran community.

“I am extremely proud to introduce the Tennessee Veteran Ready Business Recognition Program. The primary goal of the program is to recognize Tennessee businesses that go above and beyond in their efforts to recruit, hire and retain service members, veterans and their families,” said Commissioner Tommy Baker.

Participating companies will benefit from:

• Public recognition of your commitment
• Recognition on the Department of Veterans Services website
• Improved recruitment opportunities
• Demonstrated community involvement
• Access to a skilled workforce with proven leadership experience

The program also offers public recognition through official certificates, window stickers and digital badges, with additional benefits depending on the level of recognition achieved.

Applications for the Tennessee Veteran-Ready Business Recognition Program will be accepted from July 1, 2024, through October 1, 2024. Interested businesses can apply by visiting www.tn.gov/veteran/VRBP.

Tennessee Department of Veterans Services • WRS Tennessee Tower 13th Floor • 312 Rosa L. Parks Ave. • Nashville, TN 37243 Tel: 615-253-0638 • tn.gov/veteran

For more information, businesses, community organizations and chambers of commerce are encouraged to email the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services at [email protected].

About the department

The Tennessee Department of Veterans Services is dedicated to serving veterans and their families with dignity and compassion as a trusted advocate. The department strives to ensure that Tennessee veterans receive the care, support, and recognition they have earned in service to our nation. For more information about the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services, please visit www.tn.gov/veteran.

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