Food brands choose to give back on Veterans Day and beyond

While holidays can put certain subjects front and center, many ideas are intertwined in people’s lives even without the pomp and circumstance. On Veterans Day, free food offers, parades and other moments of gratitude take over the news cycle. While these celebrations are vital, some food brands choose to give back beyond November 11.

For some people, supporting the military, veterans, and their families is important. Putting aside political debates or other divisive subjects, these people did decide to serve. This year, several food brands are giving back to that community.

Yelp has added a new attribute to its search. Businesses can self-identify as a veteran owned business on their Yelp page. This designation does make a difference to some consumers and the new identification can help some businesses.

According to Yelp, veteran owned businesses increased 101% in Q3 2022 in comparison to the prior year period. Small business entrepreneurship continues to grow, and Yelp wants to help consumers shop locally.

In addition, Yelp launched a Veteran Business Fund. 10 deserving veteran-led or veteran owned business will be awarded $10,000.

While Budweiser might be the King of Beers, it has never shied away from its patriotic side. This year, the inaugural Budweiser Veterans Project will assist entrepreneurs in starting their businesses.

According to the beer brand, “the program was developed to address the challenges some Veterans may face in securing initial capital, despite the fact that they are more likely to start their own small business than the average American according to the Small Business Administration. “ 16 U.S. Veterans will receive seed money to support their endeavor.

Beyond offering financial support of veteran owned and operated businesses, buying certain food brands can help benefit the military community. This year, Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum launched Sailor Jerry Ironsides BBQ Sauce.

This special offering was created in partnership with Grill Your Ass Off, a Texas-based, veteran owned BBQ business. “100% of profits from each bottle sold will support veterans.”

The special BBQ highlights the Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum. While the rum is highlighted, the smoky, tomato notes bring a sweet heat that works on a variety of proteins, sides or even a cocktail. The special offering is $12.99 and can be purchased at Grill Your Ass Off.

Pillsbury worked with Operation Homefront to gift two military families new homes. These two deserving families are transitioning into civilian life and the new home will be a step toward a bright future.

In addition, Pillsbury donated portions of its Instacart sales to Operation Homefront. Sales from frozen and refrigerated Pillsbury products, like Grands Biscuits, Pie Crusts and more were included. The brand donated up to $30,000.

C4 Energy announced a two-year partnership with the Wounded Warrior Project. As part of this announcement, C4 added an exclusive C4 Energy x WWP Mango Foxtrot Can and Powder flavor. While the flavor might grab people’s attention, the name reflects the collaboration.

According to John Herman, President of Nutrabolt. “We are proud to partner with Wounded Warrior Project to honor injured veterans and their families on their journey of healing and improving their physical and mental wellbeing. C4 Energy lives by the mantra ‘grow and give back’ wherein if revenue grows, so should our giving. We have a duty to give back and are proud to be able to do so in such an impactful and organic way.”

In addition, C4 Energy has committed to a $500,000 to Wounded Warrior Project. Other activations, events and other collaborations to support injured veterans will be on the horizon.