Friday, January 19, 2024

Huge congratulations to the team at Bunker Labs

 


Huge congratulations to the team at Bunker Labs for being acquired by the Institute for Veterans and Military Families - IVMF. Reflecting on the last decade of my professional journey, it's clear how integral Bunker Labs has been, not just to me, but to countless others.

From its inception in Chicago to its expansion to Austin and then nationwide, Bunker Labs has been a beacon of growth and support for veteran entrepreneurship. I remember vividly the excitement of August 14th, 2014, when Bunker Labs launched in Chicago at 1871, thanks to Howard Tullman
's support. After exiting from Cohort 1 due to our acquisition by Mercedes, the following year we proudly opened its first chapter in our RideScout offices in Austin, Texas with the generous support of many including Bob Metcalfe
and Mayor Steve Adler.

Witnessing its remarkable growth over these nine years has been nothing short of inspiring. The impact Bunker Labs has made on veteran entrepreneurship and the greater good is monumental. This journey wouldn't have been possible without visionary founders like Todd Connor and Brandon Bodor, who laid the foundation, and the unwavering support of individuals like Blake Hogan, Jonathan and Sabrina Wojtewicz in launching the Austin chapter-- all who were instrumental in propelling us forward.

Seeing Kelly Perdew and Craig Cummings rise to the National Board of Directors, followed by Blake Hogan becoming the CEO, has been heartwarming at every turn. The events held at the Capital Factory in Austin, supported by Joshua Baer and the CF Dream Team, and the backing from The University of Texas at Austin, have been pivotal to their success.

As I eagerly anticipate hosting IVMF in Austin this February, I can't help but express my immense excitement for the entire team. The role models like Shaydi DeJesus, Marcus J. Carey, Anthony G., Bret Boyd, Miles Murray, Samantha Snabes and countless other Bunker company founders have been inspirational for Veterans across the country to live out their dreams.

Here's to the next chapter of innovation and impact.

hashtagBunkerLabs hashtagVeteranEntrepreneurship hashtagIVMF hashtagInnovation hashtagLeadership hashtagGrowthJourney"