Continuing the Mission of Advocacy Through Retail
On July 24–25, 2024, Sean Brownlee was once again recognized by the National Retail Federation (NRF) as one of America’s Retail Champions, honoring small business owners who advocate for policies that strengthen the retail industry and local communities. The recognition took place in Washington, D.C., during the NRF Retail Advocates Summit, where 45 business leaders from across the country gathered to meet with lawmakers and discuss the future of American retail.
Sean, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, entrepreneur, and founder of Ravenox, has been a long-time advocate for American manufacturing, small business empowerment, and veteran employment. His 2024 recognition marks his third time being honored by the NRF, a testament to his enduring commitment to advocacy, leadership, and public policy engagement.
“Advocacy, for me, means using every platform available to continue serving—beyond the uniform,” said Brownlee. “It’s about leadership, responsibility, and leveraging resources to make a tangible difference in people’s lives and their communities.”
Representing Small Businesses on the National Stage
The NRF America’s Retail Champions program celebrates retailers who go beyond business operations to make a difference in policy and community service. This year’s event brought together entrepreneurs, policymakers, and corporate leaders to discuss how retail drives economic growth, job creation, and innovation in the U.S.
Sean’s advocacy work reflects the values he honed during his 25 years in the U.S. Marine Corps, leadership, accountability, and service. Through his business and public engagements, he champions issues that matter to small manufacturers, e-commerce sellers, and veterans entering entrepreneurship.
During the summit, Sean joined more than 100 retailers and policymakers in conversations about the economic impact of small business, sustainable growth, and the role of technology in shaping the future of retail. His participation reinforced his belief that the voice of small business must be central to national economic policy.
A Veteran Entrepreneur Committed to American Manufacturing
After retiring from the Marine Corps, Sean founded Ravenox, a U.S.-based rope and cordage manufacturer headquartered in Burlington, North Carolina. His mission was clear: to create jobs, strengthen domestic production, and help other American companies thrive. Today, Ravenox is a top-selling manufacturer on major e-commerce platforms, serving industries from aerospace and defense to marine and outdoor recreation.
Beyond manufacturing, Sean uses his platform to support veteran and first responder communities, partnering with nonprofits like Operation Freedom Paws and the Marine Raider Foundation. His leadership embodies the NRF’s message that retail is not just an industry, it’s a network of people and businesses shaping communities across America.
Advocacy in Action
Sean’s 2024 recognition follows years of dedicated advocacy through multiple organizations, including:
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National Retail Federation’s Small Business Council – Advancing policy discussions that impact small retailers and e-commerce sellers nationwide.
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Washington Retail Association (WRA) – Serving as a past chairman and board member, representing the needs of small businesses at the state level.
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Intuit Small Business Council – Contributing to conversations on financial technology, AI policy, and small business access to digital tools.
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Community Emergency Response Volunteers (CERV) – Promoting disaster preparedness and public safety through community engagement.
His participation in these organizations underscores a consistent theme: using entrepreneurship as a platform for service, economic empowerment, and civic engagement.
A Celebration of Retail Leadership
The NRF Retail Advocates Summit remains one of the retail industry’s most important gatherings, connecting entrepreneurs directly with lawmakers. The 2024 event also highlighted partnerships with major corporate sponsors, including Amazon, whose Independent Seller Program recognized Sean as one of nine small business owners honored for community impact and innovation.
“The small businesses selling and thriving in the Amazon store are at the heart of their local communities,” said Natalie Angelillo, Director of Seller External Relations at Amazon. “These sellers are shining examples of the creativity, grit, and community focus that define so many of our independent sellers.”
Sean’s inclusion among these leaders reflects not only his entrepreneurial success but also his dedication to the broader mission of strengthening American retail through advocacy and education.
Looking Ahead
For Sean, being named a 2024 America’s Retail Champion represents more than a personal honor, it’s an opportunity to continue bridging the gap between business, policy, and public service. His work embodies the NRF’s mission of showcasing how small retailers drive innovation, resilience, and economic growth across the country.
Sean remains committed to using his business experience and advocacy roles to support policies that empower veterans, small business owners, and domestic manufacturers, ensuring that the next generation of entrepreneurs inherits a stronger, more sustainable retail landscape.