Empowering Veterans Through Travel Entrepreneurship
A division of Internova Travel Group helps former service members transform their military skills into thriving travel businesses
In today's rapidly evolving world, many U.S. military veterans are transitioning from serving their country to serving others by providing unforgettable travel experiences. Through the Veterans in Travel (VIT) program offered by Nexion Travel Group, these veterans utilize their leadership skills, discipline, and global outlook to create successful travel businesses.
A Growing Initiative
Nexion Travel Group stands as a premier host agency dedicated to equipping independent travel agents with the necessary tools, support, and resources for business growth. As part of Internova Travel Group, one of the largest travel services companies globally, Nexion aims to uplift the travel industry while focusing on veteran empowerment.
According to recent statistics, nearly 2 million businesses in the United States are owned by veterans. Recognizing this trend, the Veterans in Travel initiative assists former service members and military spouses in channeling their values of dedication and resilience into entrepreneurship.
Transformative Success Stories
Since its inception in 2018, the VIT program has celebrated the participation of around 345 veterans. Nexion has committed over $500,000 in scholarships and training to support these individuals. Among active Nexion participants, travel sales have surpassed $15 million, showcasing how military precision and entrepreneurial energy merge to achieve remarkable outcomes. Enrollment numbers are on the rise, with 40 veterans anticipated to join in the coming year, a significant increase from the 22 who joined in the past.
Keala Burks, an Army veteran and founder of Service and Serenity Travel, discovered the VIT program while seeking ways to merge her passions with a profession. "Transitioning out of the military can be overwhelming," she stated. "The scholarship support was crucial in alleviating financial concerns, proving Nexion's genuine investment in veterans' success, both in words and actions."
Burks attributes her Army experience in logistics as instrumental in shaping her business strategy. "Time management, organization, and accountability were ingrained in me through military training," she mentioned.
Meanwhile, Air Force veteran Kurtis Haring, who now runs Sojoura Travel in San Francisco, brings three decades of experience in national defense and technology consulting to his agency. Reflecting on what brought him joy, Haring said, "It always came back to travel and connecting people with experiences that enrich their lives. The Veterans in Travel program provided the foundational support needed to build a meaningful business."
Community and Belonging
Kurtis also emphasized the sense of community he found within Nexion as a proud LGBTQ+ member: "From the very start, I felt encouraged to be my authentic self, which hasn’t always been the case in my professional journey."
The Veterans in Travel program provides hands-on training, mentorship, and business coaching at minimal costs. Participants benefit from Internova's Travel Leaders of Tomorrow Virtual Campus and gain entry to a vast network of over 100,000 travel advisors and supplier partners. Notably, about a third of new Nexion members who complete the Virtual Campus program are veterans.
Jackie Friedman, President of Nexion Travel Group, expressed, "Our veterans are not only finding new careers; they are becoming entrepreneurs. They bring the focus, integrity, and adaptability from their service into the businesses they are establishing. We take pride in witnessing their success as impactful travel professionals."
Inviting Future Entrepreneurs
As Veterans Day approaches, Nexion is actively encouraging service members, retirees, and military spouses to investigate opportunities in travel entrepreneurship. "The travel sector is booming, and veterans have the unique leadership and resilience to excel in this industry," Friedman remarked. "We are honored to aid them in continuing their service, this time by connecting others to the world through travel."
To explore more about the program or to apply, visit the official site.
About Nexion Veterans in Travel
Launched in 2018, Nexion Veterans in Travel offers partial scholarships for military veterans and their spouses to cover travel training tuition costs. Participants receive support to establish their independent travel consultancy. Once ready to launch their agency, eligible scholarship recipients benefit from waived membership fees for up to 24 months. The program has garnered endorsements from leading veteran support organizations, ensuring that participants receive the recognition and resources they need to thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nexion's Veterans in Travel program?
The Veterans in Travel program by Nexion Travel Group helps military veterans and their spouses become independent travel consultants through training and support.
How many veterans have participated in the program?
Since its launch in 2018, the program has welcomed approximately 345 participants.
What types of support does the program offer?
The program provides scholarships, training, mentorship, and access to a large network of travel industry professionals.
Who is eligible to apply for the program?
Military veterans and their spouses are eligible to apply for the Veterans in Travel program.
What impact does the program have on participants?
Participants gain necessary skills to launch their travel businesses, leading to impressive collective sales and successful careers in travel.
