Key Takeaways
- Ripple committed $250,000 to 25 veteran- and military spouse-owned businesses selected by Hire Heroes USA.
- Each recipient receives training and access to more than 20,000 military-connected candidates seeking civilian employment.
- Future hiring, retention, and business-growth data will help determine whether the program delivers measurable workforce results.
Ripple Backs Veteran Entrepreneurs With $250,000 in RLUSD Grants
A quarter-million dollars is now moving into businesses led by veterans and military spouses across the United States. Ripple has awarded $250,000 to 25 companies through The Ripple Effect: Certified Veteran Employer Grants Program, a joint initiative with Hire Heroes USA, a nonprofit organization that helps U.S. military members, veterans, and military spouses transition into the civilian workforce. Each recipient receives a $10,000 grant designed to support business growth and future hiring.
This funding is paired with workforce development rather than being offered as a standalone grant. Ripple said recipients will receive Hire Heroes USA’s Certified Veteran Employer training and access to a network of more than 20,000 military-connected job seekers. The approach is intended to help participating businesses expand while creating more employment opportunities for veterans and military spouses.
Eligible applicants were required to be at least 51% owned by a veteran or military spouse and demonstrate plans to hire from the military community within the next 12 to 18 months. Along with the grant funding, recipients will receive recruiting tools, employer resources, and guidance on building veteran-ready workplaces.
The Support Continues After the Checks Arrive
The 25 recipients span industries including information technology, cybersecurity, consulting, and professional services.
“Veteran and military spouse-owned businesses are a critical source of innovation, job creation, and economic opportunity,” Jonathan Perri, director of social impact at Ripple, said, adding:
“This program, powered by Ripple’s RLUSD donation to Hire Heroes USA, is a direct investment in entrepreneurs who are committed to hiring from the military community and building businesses that last.”
This initiative follows Ripple’s broader investment in veteran employment and small-business development. The company previously committed $25 million in RLUSD to Hire Heroes USA and Accion Opportunity Fund. Ripple said its partnership with Hire Heroes USA is expected to generate 14,000 employment opportunities and launch a program focused on financial technology careers.
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