Small business is the heart of our community. And when some of those businesses are owned by military veterans, well, that makes it even better.

To celebrate and support these local operations, the first-ever Veteran Owned Business Festival is set for Saturday, Aug. 27 in Fuquay-Varina. Proceeds will benefit Military Missions in Action, Heroes United of NC, and Operation 300.

“The goal of this festival is to raise money for the three military-related charities involved, as well as gain exposure for the VOBs who are attending this event, who have given so much to our country,” said veteran and business owner Jason Grantham, who organized the fest with his colleague, Larry Reid.

Grantham says this event is different from traditional business expos, offering an outdoor festival environment.

“People can expect to find great local music from (Navy veteran) Bud Moffett & Friends, great beer from three local breweries who are all veteran-owned businesses, a variety of food trucks, and a chance to learn more about 20 local VOBs and organizations,” Grantham said. “This will be an event the entire family can enjoy, in the heart of downtown Fuquay.” 

The Veteran Owned Business Festival will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 322 S. Main St., in Fuquay-Varina.

Get all the details at facebook.com/vobfest.

More local business

Want to know more about local businesses? Here are two traditional business expos happening today and next Thursday:

Today: The Southwest Wake Business Expo runs through 3 p.m., at the Apex Community Center, 53 Hunter St. A collaboration of the Apex and Holly Springs Chambers of Commerce, the event showcases more than 80 area businesses. apexchamber.com

Next Thursday, Aug. 25: The Core Connections Business Expo runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Fuquay-Varina Community Center, celebrating new and existing businesses. fuquay-varina.org