In the heart of the Dallas- Fort Worth (DFW) area, a pivotal organization is making strides in supporting veteran entrepreneurs. Cristie Remmel, the founder and president of the DFW Veterans Chamber of Commerce and recipient of the prestigious Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, is at the forefront of this initiative. Motivated by the challenges of the pandemic, Remmel established the chamber to ensure that veteran business owners not only survive but thrive.
Remmel’s journey began amid global turmoil when she noticed the dire need for support within the veteran business community. “I serve the Veteran business owner community,” Remmel explains, “It all started during the pandemic because I wanted to help our community stay in business and succeed in spite of world events.” This dedication stems not only from a desire to assist but also from a deep-seated value in giving back and being of service.
The goals of the DFW Veterans Chamber are ambitious yet clear. “My goal is to see our community thrive and be successful in their business endeavors,” says Remmel. Witnessing businesses flourish is a profound source of satisfaction for her, driving the chamber’s activities and programs.
The mission of the DFW Veterans Chamber of Commerce is comprehensive: enhancing the professional lives of active duty, transitioning military, and veterans through business, employment, and education. By unifying the professional veteran community, the chamber advocates for veterans and fosters collaboration with support from various sectors including nonprofits, government agencies, and corporate partners.
Looking ahead to 2024, Remmel is excited about launching a mentorship program aimed at helping businesses identify and bridge gaps in their operations, propelling them to new heights of success.
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The plan is to develop a program for our business to be able to receive mentorship so that they can close the gaps they might have in their business so that they can reach the next level of success,” she outlines.
The chamber serves the entire Dallas- Fort Worth area and is keen on expanding its network with more patriot businesses—those that are eager to engage with the veteran community. “We are here for everyone who is looking to achieve business success and have a tribe that they can belong to,” Remmel asserts.
Cristie Remmel, driven by a philosophy of unconditional service, often quotes Dr. Zhi Gang Sha: “I serve humanity unconditionally.” This reflects her deep commitment to her work and the community she serves. The DFW Veterans Chamber envisions becoming a hub for veteran-owned businesses, fostering community collaboration and business growth—a vision that Remmel is determined to realize.
With a clear mission, dedicated leadership, and innovative programs, the DFW Veterans Chamber of Commerce is setting a benchmark for support and success in the veteran entrepreneurial landscape.
