This past week, nearly 50 military spouses gathered at the USO Warrior and Family Center on Ft. Belvoir for a unique event aimed at connecting spouses and entrepreneurs. The “More than a MilSpouse Summit,” organized by the Association of Military Spouse Entrepreneurs (AMSE) and sponsored by USAA, First Command Financial Services, and Blue Cross Blue Shield, promised a day of education, networking, and empowerment.
Designed by Moni Jefferson, the summit was crafted to provide spouses with valuable resources and support without the usual fluff or filler content often found in similar events. For Jefferson, who launched her own business, the summit was the exact event she wished she had when starting out.
The morning kicked off with an inspiring keynote address from Assistant Secretary James D. Rodriguez, setting the tone for a day filled with valuable insights and practical advice. Panels and workshops covered topics ranging from business development to marketing strategies, offering attendees a wealth of knowledge to help them start, build, and sustain their careers and passion projects.
One of the highlights of the summit was the afternoon pitch session, giving attendees the opportunity to showcase their ideas and receive feedback from industry experts and fellow entrepreneurs. The event concluded with the presentation of the AMSE’s Military Spouse Entrepreneur Award, sponsored by the Military Times. The deserving winner, Simone Atkinsons, was awarded access to new opportunities and exciting learning experiences to further her entrepreneurial journey.
The “More than a MilSpouse Summit” was more than just a conference; it was a gathering of like-minded individuals committed to supporting and empowering military spouses in their entrepreneurial endeavors. By providing endless encouragement, valuable instruction, and tangible support, the summit left participants feeling prepared and inspired to take their businesses to new heights.
For those who missed out on the summit, AMSE encourages military spouses to follow them on social media, @AMSEAgency, and learn more about FREE membership today. With ongoing support and resources, AMSE is dedicated to empowering military spouses to achieve their entrepreneurial dreams and thrive in their professional pursuits.