​​​​​​ANNAPOLIS, MD—Governor Wes Moore this week delivered the keynote address to more than 100 former and current military personnel during the Governor’s Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs 2023 Military Small Business Appreciation Breakfast. The event, co-hosted by Prince George’s Community College, honored the significant contributions of Maryland’s veteran community to the state’s economy.

“Thank you to our veterans and current military personnel for continuing to give back to our state. Thank you for refusing to take the easy road,” said Gov. Moore. “When we provide opportunities to our veterans, they run with them, and make our state better. Today’s event is a celebration of that relentless spirit that says: I will serve, no matter what it takes.”

Among those in attendance were:

• ​Tiffany Davis – Washington Accounting Services
• Dr. James A. Dula – Prince George’s County Veteran Affairs Office
• Stephen Principie – SMI Environmental, Inc.
• Arthur Toole – Grenada Nut Company​

Maryland is home to the Veteran-Owned Small Business Enterprise procurement program, which ensures opportunities for veteran-owned small businesses to participate in the state’s contracting arena. Prince George’s County boasts the largest veteran community in Maryland.

“Prince George’s Community College is fortunate to serve our nation’s military, veterans, and their families,” said Prince George’s Community College Dean Geoffrey L. Colbert. “Your bravery, sacrifice, and strength do not go unnoticed, and we will forever be indebted to you and your family.”

Veteran-Owned Small Business Enterprise program certified vendors received $52 million in awards In FY 2022, which represents a 76 percent increase from the previous year.