Joe Whelchel

Meet the Founder

Hire Warriors began with a simple, restless question in the middle of the night:
“How can I help those who have given so much for our country, when I couldn’t serve in the traditional way?”

Unable to join the military due to a medical issue, I still felt a deep calling to give back. Not for profit, but out of gratitude. That moment sparked a mission—to create a platform that honors American military service through action, opportunity, and support.

Our Mission

Many American military–owned businesses face challenges that often go unseen:

Little support from their local communities
Competing in crowded markets without meaningful advantages
Limited access to capital, mentorship, and marketing resources
Service stories that remain unknown to customers

Hire Warriors exists to change that.

We connect American military entrepreneurs with people who value their service, helping them grow their businesses while honoring their sacrifices.

Why This Mission Matters

Service runs deep in my life and family:

Father: U.S. Army
Brother: U.S. Navy
Ex-wife: U.S. Air Force
A young man I helped raise: U.S. Army & U.S. Air Force

Their experiences remind me every day that supporting these warriors—through business, community, and recognition—is more than a mission; it’s a responsibility.

Giving Back

Hire Warriors proudly supports Upstate Warrior Solution, a nonprofit in Greenville, South Carolina that connects warriors, first responders and their families to housing, healthcare, employment and benefits.

Donations made through this site go directly to them. The platform itself is paid for by Honorable Marketing, so the directory never has to charge the people in it.