Veteran-Owned Business Spotlight: Fundraiser Blankets®

As we honor veterans this November, we’re happy to share the story of Fundraiser Blankets®, a women-owned, veteran-led business that is transforming school fundraising across the United States.

Founded by two sisters—Army veteran Barbara Kent and retired teacher Joanna Serra—Fundraiser Blankets® is rooted in service, resilience, and the drive to make a difference in young lives.

Barbara’s military background has shaped her approach to leadership and community impact, while Joanna’s years in education have fueled her passion for supporting schools. Together, they’ve created a company that challenges the norms of school fundraising by offering custom blankets as a meaningful, sustainable alternative to traditional items.

Today, we invite you to read on to learn more about their journey, celebrate their achievements, and recognize the role that the Women’s Business Center has played in supporting their growth.

What is Fundraiser Blankets®?

Fundraiser Blankets® offers schools and sports teams an alternative to traditional fundraising. Instead of overpriced, unhealthy consumables, Fundraiser Blankets® provides customized, high-quality blankets and towels with school logos. 

These keepsakes serve as a healthier and more meaningful way for students and families to support their schools.

How Did You Get Started?

The story behind Fundraiser Blankets® is rooted in the sisters’ shared journey as immigrants growing up in challenging conditions in Hamtramck, Michigan. “Education was our way out,” says Joanna. After successful careers—Barbara as a West Point graduate and Army veteran, and Joanna as a teacher—they united their skills to give back to their community.

They saw a gap in school fundraising, describing it as “outdated, overpriced, and profit-driven.” They aimed to offer a healthier, non-consumable keepsake for families. Their solution—customizable, high-quality blankets and towels—provided schools and sports teams with a meaningful, profitable product that truly supports educational funding.

How Has the Women’s Business Center Supported Your Growth as a Small Business?

With no formal business background, Barbara and Joanna knew they needed help navigating the world of entrepreneurship. They learned about women-owned business certifications and reached out to the Great Lakes Women’s Business Council (WBC) for support.

“We heard from a friend about being able to certify as a women-owned business. This led us to research on all of the assistance that’s available online… which led us to our regional partner, Great Lakes WBC in addition to certifying us as officially women-owned.”

Through their involvement with the WBC, the sisters participated in pitch competitions, mentoring programs, and networking events—all of which helped them build confidence and refine their business approach.

“Starting our pitch road with our Women’s Business Center allowed us to gain confidence when speaking, learn the power a few words can have, and network with lots of other WBEs and corporations,” says Joanna. 

One of the most significant milestones in their journey was winning the grand prize at the Great Lakes WBC conference, which led to an opportunity to pitch at the national WBENC women-owned competition in Washington, D.C. this month (November 2024)!

Reflecting on the impact of the WBC, they shared, “Without the support of the Women’s Business Center, we would still feel too intimidated and struggle with ‘imposter syndrome’ to put ourselves out there and fully believe in our mission.”

How Does Being Veteran-Owned Influence Your Business?

As a veteran, Barbara takes immense pride in Fundraiser Blankets® being a veteran-owned business. The skills she gained in the Army—leadership, discipline, and perseverance—have been invaluable as they’ve grown their business.

Barbara shares: “I feel honored to be a veteran owned business owner and to use the skills I have learned to lead and make a difference in lives. We proudly use our veteran owned logo on our packaging and sew in labels.”

While Fundraiser Blankets® is headquartered in Romeo, MI Barbara is currently stationed in Germany with her active duty husband.

What’s Next for Fundraiser Blankets®?

Looking ahead, Barbara and Joanna are focused on expanding their reach and making a greater impact in schools nationwide. They shared their excitement: “We just found out we ranked #444 on the INC5000, with 672% growth over the past year.” 

They’re proud to be “setting an example by breaking the cycle, showing our own children that anything is possible, and creating a path to more profitable fundraising for schools. This mission to impact young lives everywhere is our greatest purpose.”

Barbara and Joanna’s journey, from humble beginnings as immigrants in Hamtramck, Michigan, to becoming national pitch competition winners, serves as an inspiring reminder of what’s possible with dedication and community support. Their story highlights the power of women-owned and veteran-led businesses and the profound impact they can have on their communities.

For women entrepreneurs or veterans considering starting their own business, the support, resources, and guidance available through a Women’s Business Center (WBC) can help turn dreams into reality and provide the mentorship you need to succeed. To learn more or find a WBC near you, click here.

To learn more about Fundraiser Blankets® and support their mission, visit them online at FundraiserBlankets.com or follow them on Instagram @shopbirdyboutique.