November is National Veterans and Military Families Month. The Department of Commerce recognizes the vital role military families, military spouses, and transitioning veterans play in our society and offers our immense gratitude for their service and the support of their families and loved ones. Earlier this month, at a National Veterans Day Observance at Arlington Cemetery in Virginia, President Biden stated, “Our Veterans are the steel spine of this nation. And their families…are the courageous heart. Most Americans never see the sacrifices that you as family members also make”.

The Department of Commerce supports this community by providing data tools, resources, and programs that facilitate economic empowerment. The U.S. Census Bureau’s 2022 Annual Business Survey reported, “Veteran-owned businesses had an estimated $922.2 billion in receipts, 3.3 million employees, and $179.9 billion in annual payroll." In this blog, we are excited to introduce two incredible innovators and entrepreneurs who have utilized services and tools provided by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to grow and expand their businesses.

Ruth Young-Loaeza is a military spouse and inventor of Neet Sheets. Ms. Young-Loaeza was a housekeeper for 24 years and understood how tedious and frustrating bed making could be. Neet Sheets is an ergonomic, innovative, and patented full line of linen solutions that alleviates the challenging task of making beds. It reduces the bed making time by 47%, and mattress lifting efforts decrease by 75%. Ms. Young-Loaeza said, “The USPTO has been key to the success, credibility, and learning the process of acquiring intellectual property protection for my products and brand.” To date, Neet Sheets has been granted three USA patents, and another three patents have been awarded from other international jurisdictions. Ms. Young-Loaeza credits USPTO for their relentless support in educating and empowering her to protect her intellectual property.

JD Clement Dickson served in the U.S. Navy and credits his military experience with providing him with a strong foundation in operations management, logistics, and strategic planning. These skills have been remarkably transferable in his new endeavor as an entrepreneur and founder of KEHOVI. According to JD, “At KEHOVI, our vision transcends commerce; it's a journey of Keeping Hope Visible. As an e-commerce store primarily operating on Amazon, our debut product is a collection of sustainable silicone water bottles. Crafted from non-toxic, BPA-free materials, these are symbols of a sustainable lifestyle and a testament to our dedication to making a difference.” JD participated in one of USPTO’s Entrepreneurship Road Show and recounts his experience as “transformative for himself and his business” Furthermore, he says, “the invaluable insights shared by seasoned entrepreneurs and intellectual property experts have not only enhanced my understanding of the intricacies of intellectual property but have provided a roadmap to safeguarding and maximizing the potential of my business innovations. This experience has empowered me with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complex landscape of intellectual property, fostering innovation and ensuring the long-term success of my ventures."

Learn more about resources for entrepreneurs at https://www.commerce.gov/entrepreneurs.

This blog is part of a series by the Commerce Department’s Office of Public Affairs and Office of Public Engagement which highlights events and initiatives that inform the public about the Department’s important work and priorities as outlined in the Department’s 2022–2026 Strategic Plan.