Veteran Entrepreneurs Graduate from TikTok Shop Accelerator in Washington, D.C.
On March 4, 2026, Veteran Startup celebrated the graduation of eight veteran entrepreneurs from the TikTok Shop Veteran Business Accelerator during a special event held in the Presidential Suite at Union Station.
The accelerator is offered by Veteran Startup in partnership with TikTok Shop and our parent organization, the Association of Women’s Business Centers (AWBC). The program is designed to help veteran entrepreneurs grow their businesses through social commerce while building stronger brands and expanding their digital reach.
Over the past eight weeks, this cohort of veteran entrepreneurs participated in virtual coaching sessions designed to help them scale their businesses, strengthen their brand identity, and expand their presence on TikTok Shop. Through expert guidance, hands-on learning, and peer collaboration, participants gained practical strategies for reaching new customers and building sustainable growth in today’s digital marketplace.
The graduation event in Washington, D.C. brought together program partners, supporters, and fellow entrepreneurs to celebrate the accomplishments of the cohort and recognize the impact veteran-owned businesses continue to have across the country.
Meet the TikTok Shop Veteran Accelerator Graduates:
- Cenita Williamson — ALYS Always Love Yourself (@alys.alwaysloveyo)
- Javier E. Treviño — Azteca Greens (@azteca_greens)
- Andrew Lynam — Custom Jacks (@customjacks)
- Jessica Harris — K9 Salute (@k9salute)
- Joshua Parish — VETLIFE (@vetlifetoday)
- Charlynda Scales — Mutt’s Sauce (@muttssauce)
- Paden Sickles — SickFit (@sickfitofficial)
- Crystal Harrell — P.S. Hair Alchemy (@pshairalchemy)
These eight entrepreneurs represent a diverse range of industries and innovative businesses, showcasing the creativity and determination that define the veteran entrepreneurial community.
VeteranStartup.org is now accepting applications for the next round of the TikTok Shop Veteran Business Accelerator. Veteran entrepreneurs interested in participating can learn more and apply at veteranstartup.org/apply.
Through programs like this accelerator, Veteran Startup continues to connect veteran entrepreneurs with the resources, training, and partnerships they need to launch, grow, and scale successful businesses.