At Lift Digital Marketing, we are thrilled to announce that we have officially obtained the VBE certification (Veteran-Owned Business Enterprise) from the City of Chicago. This recognition is not only a milestone for our company but also a testament to our ongoing commitment to service, integrity, and the veteran business community.
What Is VBE Certification?
VBE certification is an official designation awarded by the City of Chicago to businesses that are at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by U.S. military veterans. This certification opens doors to new opportunities, including eligibility for city contracts and greater visibility among organizations seeking to support veteran-owned businesses.
For Lift Digital Marketing, VBE certification means:
- Recognition of our founder’s military service and business leadership
- Eligibility to participate in City of Chicago procurement opportunities
- Inclusion in the City’s Directory of Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises
- A platform to further advocate for veteran entrepreneurship and economic empowerment
Our Founder’s Journey
Lift Digital Marketing was founded by Aaron Welch, a proud U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and disabled veteran who served two deployments to Kuwait. With nearly 25 years of experience in digital marketing, Aaron has been at the forefront of the industry, bringing discipline, innovation, and a mission-driven mindset to every client engagement.
Supporting the Veteran Business Community
Our commitment to veterans extends well beyond our own certification. We actively support and lead organizations dedicated to empowering veteran entrepreneurs:
Chicagoland Veteran Business Owners (CVBO)
Aaron Welch is the Founder and President of Chicagoland Veteran Business Owners (CVBO), a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering veteran entrepreneurs and business leaders throughout the greater Chicago area by fostering a strong, supportive network. CVBO provides valuable resources, advocacy, and opportunities for veterans who own or operate businesses, offering networking events, business growth education, mentorship, and community impact initiatives. By connecting veterans with like-minded professionals and local business opportunities, CVBO helps veteran-owned businesses thrive, while also promoting awareness and support for veteran causes across the region. Learn more at https://chicagolandveteranbusinessowners.org.
Veteran Business Project
Lift Digital Marketing also works closely with the Veteran Business Project, a nonprofit dedicated to helping veterans and their spouses succeed as entrepreneurs. Through its Certification Assistance Program, VBP guides veteran-owned businesses step-by-step through the City of Chicago’s Veteran Business Enterprise (VBE) certification process, making it easier for veterans to access city contracts and new business opportunities. VBP provides mentorship, streamlines applications, and offers ongoing support. By simplifying certification and offering personalized guidance, VBP boosts the visibility and success of veteran-owned businesses in Chicago. Learn more at veteranbusinessproject.org.
Why VBE Certification Matters
Obtaining VBE certification is more than a badge—it’s a commitment to excellence, community, and leadership. It enables us to:
- Compete for contracts that prioritize diversity and inclusion
- Serve as a role model and mentor for other veteran-owned businesses
- Advocate for policies and programs that benefit the broader veteran community
If you’re interested in learning more about the City of Chicago’s Veteran Business Enterprise (VBE) certification program—including eligibility, benefits, and how to apply—visit the official city page for detailed information and resources. This is the best place to get up-to-date guidance and access to the online application process.
Looking Forward
As we celebrate our VBE certification, we remain dedicated to supporting veteran entrepreneurs, fostering business growth, and delivering innovative marketing solutions to our clients. We invite you to connect with us—whether you’re a business seeking marketing expertise, a veteran looking for support, or an organization interested in collaboration.
Lift Digital Marketing: Veteran-owned. Community-focused. Results-driven.
