Eight veteran founders stepped into the spotlight this June during Warrior Rising’s Virtual Business Shower, each delivering a 7-minute pitch for a shot at a $20,000 grant and life-changing visibility for their business.
The event wasn’t just a competition. It was a celebration of what’s possible when discipline, purpose and innovation collide. Each of these veterans represents the next generation of founders, creators and leaders building legacies beyond the uniform.
Meet the founders
John Matecki
Founder, Whiskermen · Ohio
After serving in the U.S. military, John launched Whiskermen, a veteran-owned grooming brand rooted in confidence, craftsmanship and natural self-care. His mission: help men grow better beards while uplifting the military and veteran communities with pride and purpose.
Dr. Laketia “J” Johnson
Founder, 42 Klicks · Colorado Springs
A holistic health leader and the daughter, wife and niece of Army veterans, Dr. J has transformed lives through chiropractic care, acupuncture and nutrition. Her clinic, 42 Klicks, reflects her passion for resilience, serving those who serve through integrated wellness.
Darren Dunn
Founder, The Men’s Warrior Line
Darren’s “wrist armor” bracelets are more than accessories. They’re a movement. Inspired by Psalm 144:1, his rugged, faith-based jewelry empowers men with purpose, strength and spiritual identity. He’s on a mission to uplift families, men in recovery and fellow veterans through bold design and meaningful employment.
Kent Fletcher
Co-Founder, T11, Inc. · South Carolina
A Marine Corps veteran and tech visionary, Kent leads T11, a company reinventing protective headgear to prevent injuries in sports. With deep ties to innovation and mental health advocacy, Kent is driving change across industries while mentoring the next wave of veteran entrepreneurs.
Jasmine Rush
Founder, Rush Media
From Navy service to multi-hyphenate creative, Jasmine is a storyteller, author, speaker and visual artist using her voice to connect and empower. Through media, coaching and advocacy, she’s helping others find and share their own stories with authenticity and impact.
John Khazraee
Founder, InvestWise · San Francisco, CA
With a background in engineering and tech, John created InvestWise, an AI-powered platform that helps commercial property owners avoid massive compliance fines. His work helps fellow veterans and entrepreneurs future-proof their assets and meet sustainability mandates with confidence.
Lori Patton O’Hara
Founder, Design5sixty4 · Colorado
A creative strategist and design leader, Lori combines graphic design expertise with strategic brand development. Her work supports both local businesses and larger organizations, and she continues to develop the next generation of creatives through education and advisory leadership.
And the winner is Donnie Jordan, Sr.
Donnie, an Army combat veteran and founder of Legalize Docs Plus, delivered a standout pitch that earned him first place and the $20,000 grant.
Based in Ionia, Michigan, Legalize Docs Plus offers remote notarization, fingerprinting, document authentication and apostille services, all essential for government, employment and licensing needs. The business stands out not only for its innovation and scalability, but for its commitment to secure, accessible services for veterans and civilians alike.
His clarity of mission, operational readiness and drive to serve made him the ideal recipient of this year’s top prize. As part of his prize package, Donnie will also receive pro bono support from Veteran Benefits Guide (VBG) to keep building a business rooted in integrity, service and impact.
“WOW! I am overjoyed and super appreciative for all of your supportive responses! Reggie & Sam!!! You guys rock! Warrior Rising is the total package experience for entrepreneurs, especially for us veterans and military family members.”
Donnie Jordan, Founder of Legalize Docs Plus, Virtual Business Shower Champion 2025
Presented by Veteran Benefits Guide
This year’s Virtual Business Shower was proudly presented by Veteran Benefits Guide (VBG), an organization that has helped more than 45,000 veterans navigate the VA disability claims process over the past decade.
VBG’s sponsorship honored its 10-year milestone and reinforced its mission to empower veterans in every chapter of their journey, from benefits to business. Their support makes moments like this possible, not just for Donnie, but for every veteran who dares to build something greater. Learn more at vbg.com.
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.