How many people can say they turned their childhood passion into a successful career? Brandon Holland, a U.S. Navy Veteran, ACP Protege, and entrepreneur, can make a strong case that he did exactly that.

Growing up, Holland was that savvy kid always turning a profit from selling candy, energy drinks, and protein bars to his classmates at a modest mark-up. After high school graduation, he opted for career stability, enlisting in the Navy as an Electronics Technician.

Despite a demanding military career, Holland never dropped his lifelong ambition to be a business owner. He began creating custom decals a few years into his service. “Though limited for time, I used every free moment to create graphics,” says Holland of his time stationed aboard a Virginia-based guided missile cruiser.

Holland maintained this side gig throughout the remainder of his service, passing off the majority of responsibilities to a friend and former shipmate while he was stationed in Japan. After he and his wife returned stateside in 2023, Holland separated honorably from the Navy and devoted himself full-time to the company, which he and his business partner rebranded as Stickerfy.

That year, Holland signed up for a Small Business Mentor through American Corporate Partners’ no-cost mentorship program and started working with Rob Holmes, president and founder of ForgeNow and a private investor with 20+ years of experience in multiple industries. As a fellow Veteran, Holmes also related to the unique challenges, and advantages, of entering the entrepreneurial space after military service.

“Although neither of us had previous experience with this type of mentorship program, we quickly developed a genuine and supportive connection,” says Holland. “ACP fosters real relationships and camaraderie between veterans, which is something I anticipated losing after my time in the service.”

“As a veteran, we all seek to keep serving, even after the uniform,” Holmes adds. “If I can help [with the transition] in any way, then that is time well spent.”

A seasoned owner and investor, Holmes was instrumental in helping Holland iron out the less glamorous details of his newly-formed LLC. The pair discussed tax planning, legal considerations, insurance, and how to diversify risk for greater financial stability.

“Rob underscored the importance of operating with certainty and avoiding gray areas in how the business is conducted,” says Holland, who wanted to ensure his approach was ethical and transparent in realms such as social media usage and client acquisition. “My mentor emphasized the importance of building strong, genuine relationships [with clients],” Holland attests. “I see the impact of this advice daily in my clients’ satisfaction and positive feedback. I’m confident that this relationship-focused approach will be a foundation for Stickerfy’s continued success.”

The mentorship wasn’t limited to practical considerations. “Before this mentorship, I hadn’t fully realized how entrepreneurship requires a focus on mind, body, and spirit,” says Holland. “Rob’s insights have inspired me to approach my journey more holistically, balancing personal and professional goals.”

Holmes is thrilled that he and Holland will continue their relationship past the end of their formal mentorship. “I look forward to staying in touch,” says Holmes. “[Brandon is] well on his way to great things.”

This Small Business Spotlight was written by Hailey Brindamour, a Senior Operations Associate here at ACP. A Military Spouse herself, Hailey joined us in the summer of 2022 and plays a vital role in ensuring incredible experiences like this are possible for our community.