On December 12, Warrior Rising hosted its Saluting Her Service event in Washington, D.C., bringing together veterans, entrepreneurs and leaders for a night of celebration and competition. At the heart of the event was the Business Shower, where veteran entrepreneurs pitched their businesses for funding, mentorship and national recognition.
The competition was fierce, the ideas inspiring, and the night culminated in two standout businesses taking home the top honors.
First place: SickFit
Claiming the $50,000 grand prize was SickFit, a company founded and led by Army veteran Paden Sickles. SickFit specializes in durable, high-performance apparel and socks designed to withstand the toughest conditions, inspired by the challenges of military training and outdoor activities. Sickles, who spent nearly a decade in the Army, envisioned SickFit as more than a clothing brand. It represents grit, empowerment and functionality.
“Life is sick,” Sickles often says, summing up her philosophy of embracing challenges with resilience and energy. SickFit’s mission extends beyond quality apparel: the company also gives back to local communities, staying true to its roots of service and purpose.
The win marks a significant milestone for Sickles as she transitions out of the military and fully scales her business. The $50,000 prize will fuel her next phase of growth, helping SickFit expand its wholesale relationships, invest in production and amplify its national reach. Learn more at sickfit.us.
Second place: Fundraiser Blankets
Securing the runner-up spot was Fundraiser Blankets, founded by sisters Barbara Kent and Joanna Serra, a veteran and a schoolteacher. Fundraiser Blankets makes customized, high-quality blankets that serve as creative fundraising solutions for schools, organizations and community groups.
With a focus on meaningful products, Kent and Serra’s business bridges entrepreneurship and community impact. Their blankets deliver warmth and give schools and nonprofits a sustainable way to raise funds, while supporters take home a tangible, cherished item.
The sisters’ unique approach to fundraising resonated with the judges, earning them recognition and critical funding to scale their operations. Their dedication to family, education and service shines through every blanket they produce.
Celebrating purpose-driven innovation
The D.C. Business Shower was more than a competition. It was a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit, resilience and innovation of the veteran community. Paden Sickles, Barbara Kent and Joanna Serra show what happens when passion meets purpose, inspiring others to build businesses that solve problems and uplift communities.
Participants felt it too:
“Thank you, Warrior Rising, for providing Delta Pro Services with such an incredible opportunity! Your program is truly remarkable, and I highly encourage fellow [veteran entrepreneurs] to explore it as a powerful resource to elevate their businesses to the next level.”
Sylmar Sanchez, CEO of Delta Pro Services
As Warrior Rising continues to support and elevate veteran entrepreneurs, events like Saluting Her Service are a powerful reminder that meaningful change starts with people willing to serve, again and again. Congratulations to SickFit and Fundraiser Blankets on their well-deserved wins.
About Warrior Rising
Founded in 2015, Warrior Rising is a nationwide 501(c)(3) nonprofit that empowers military veterans and their families through entrepreneurship. Through education, mentorship and grant funding, it helps veteran entrepreneurs launch and grow successful businesses. Learn more at warriorrising.org.