Robert Kolley is an outstanding candidate for the Veteran of the Year® Award due to his continued leadership, service, and recognized impact within the veteran and business communities. A proud Air Force veteran, Robert has dedicated his post-service career to empowering others particularly veterans through entrepreneurship, education, and mentorship.
In 2025, Robert was honored with the Nebraska Enterprise President Award, a distinction that recognizes his leadership, innovation, and measurable contributions to small business development. This accolade reflects his commitment to driving economic growth and creating meaningful opportunities for entrepreneurs across Nebraska.
As the Business Advisor at the Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC), Robert leads high-impact training programs, workshops, and one-on-one advising sessions that help veterans successfully launch and grow their businesses. He has built strong partnerships with community organizations, lenders, and support networks, expanding access to critical resources and capital for those he serves. His work directly contributes to sustainable business creation and long-term success for veteran entrepreneurs.
Beyond his professional role, Robert serves as General Manager of the Omaha Stockmen, where he fosters community engagement and leadership through sports. He is also actively involved with the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network (YNPN), supporting the development of future nonprofit leaders and strengthening the broader community.
Additionally, Robert is GrowthWheel certified, enhancing his ability to provide structured, results-driven business advising. His ability to connect with, mentor, and inspire others has made him a trusted leader and advocate for veterans.
Through his service, leadership, and recognized achievements, Robert continues to create lasting impact, making him an exceptional nominee for the Veteran of the Year® Award.
My wife and three kids are my biggest supporters and the reason I push as hard as I do every single day. Moving to Nebraska introduced me to an incredible community that quickly became family, and I carry with me the love and encouragement of my family and friends back in Massachusetts who shaped who I am. No matter how far life takes me, I’m grounded by the people who believe in me most.
My name is Robert Kolley, an Air Force Veteran and Business Advisor at the Veteran Business Outreach Center (VBOC) in Omaha, Nebraska, where I hold a GrowthWheel certification and specialize in supporting Veteran entrepreneurs at every stage of business development. A proud recipient of the 2025 Nebraska Enterprise Fund President’s Award, I also serve as General Manager of the Omaha Stockmen Minor League Football team and as Programming Co-Chair with the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network. With a foundation built on military service and a passion for entrepreneurship, I’m driven by a mission to help veterans turn their skills into thriving businesses.
