About Purchase with Purpose
Purchase with Purpose is a platform dedicated to supporting businesses owned and operated by current and former first responders. It connects customers with businesses built by the people who have spent their careers serving and protecting our communities.
By choosing to purchase through the platform, customers are supporting entrepreneurship, recovery, and financial independence for first responders as they navigate life beyond service. Purchase with Purpose helps shine a spotlight on these businesses, encouraging people to shop intentionally and contribute to stronger, more resilient first responder communities.
Objectives
Promotion & Visibility – Provide a dedicated on line market place platform to showcase businesses owned by former and serving first responders, increasing their exposure and customer reach.
Support & Networking – Build a strong, supportive community where entrepreneurs can connect, share experiences, and access essential business resources.
Education & Development – Offer mentorship, workshops, and training programs on key business skills, including marketing, financial management, and e-commerce.
Advocacy & Partnerships – Work with government bodies, corporate partners, and consumers to encourage meaningful investment in first responder owned businesses.
Impact & Vision
Our vision is to create a sustainable and thriving network of retired and serving first responder entrepreneurs who have the tools, support, and visibility to succeed in their business ventures. By championing their resilience and dedication, we empower them to turn their skills and passions into meaningful economic opportunities, while strengthening the broader community through purposeful purchasing.
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Sarah U'Brien
Sarah, witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by her husband Matt after he was medically retired from the career he had dedicated his life to.
Supporting Matt through this journey, Sarah realised their experience was far from unique. Many former and medically retired first responders face similar challenges when transitioning out of service—trying to rebuild their lives, rediscover purpose, and create financial security for themselves and their families.
From this realisation, Purchase with Purpose was created.
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Matt U'Brien
Matt faced the daunting task of rebuilding his identity, purpose, and future. He needed a path that could accommodate the triggers, challenges, and long-term impacts of his injury. Determined to take control of his future, Matt channelled his passion into launching Soaring Eagle Productions, a small business specialising in photography, video production, content creation, and documentary filmmaking.
Starting a business while navigating recovery was not easy. Matt had to develop and refine his craft, build a client base, learn the complexities of running a business, and manage the daily realities of living with a psychological injury. Yet through it all, his determination and resilience inspired those around him.