At Exitoso Cigars, we believe a premium cigar experience is about more than tobacco. It is about connection. It is about taking a moment to slow down, reflect, and share meaningful conversations with people who value craftsmanship, purpose, and community.
That is exactly why partnering with Tech For Troops as the exclusive cigar sponsor for the Inaugural Bourbon & Cigars event was an easy decision for me.
As a Navy Veteran myself, supporting organizations that create real opportunities for Veterans is personal. I understand the transition many service members face after leaving the military, and I appreciate the work Tech For Troops is doing to help Veterans and their families gain access to technology, digital training, and workforce development opportunities.
On May 22, 2026, supporters from across Virginia will gather along the James River at American Legion Post 354 for an evening centered around premium bourbon, handcrafted cigars, live music, and community, all in support of Veterans transitioning into today’s workforce.
Tech For Troops has spent years helping Veterans and their families build skills, confidence, and access to career pathways through technology. Their mission is practical, impactful, and focused on creating long-term opportunities for the people who served our country.
When I first learned more about what Tech For Troops was building, I immediately saw alignment with the values we hold at Exitoso Cigars.
Our brand was founded around intentional experiences and meaningful moments. Every cigar we produce is handcrafted in Miami’s Little Havana by the Bello family using traditional hand-rolled techniques that reflect generations of craftsmanship.
For us, cigars have always represented something deeper. They create space for conversations, relationships, and reflection. The Bourbon & Cigars event brings those same elements together with a mission that genuinely matters.
This event is not simply another social gathering. It is designed to become a signature experience that supports Veteran workforce development while creating an atmosphere that people genuinely want to be part of. Guests will experience premium bourbon tastings, curated cigar experiences, live entertainment, auctions, and conversations with leaders and supporters who care about making a difference.
As the exclusive cigar partner, Exitoso Cigars is proud to help shape that experience.
There is something powerful about bringing people together around premium cigars in an environment built on purpose. Some of the best conversations happen over a good cigar. Business relationships are built there. Friendships are strengthened there. Ideas are exchanged there. And in this case, support for Veterans grows there too.
Richmond has a strong and growing cigar culture, and I believe events like this help elevate that culture while tying it to something meaningful beyond the experience itself.
I also appreciate that Tech For Troops understands quality matters. From the venue overlooking the James River to the elevated atmosphere and intentional planning, this event was built to create a memorable experience from beginning to end.
At Exitoso Cigars, we are selective about the partnerships we pursue because we want our brand connected to organizations and experiences that align with our standards and values. Tech For Troops represents exactly that type of partnership.
This is the first year of what I believe will become one of Richmond’s premier annual events.
I invite you to join us on May 22 for an evening of premium cigars, bourbon, conversation, and community, all while helping support Veterans as they transition into new careers and opportunities.
We look forward to sharing an unforgettable experience with you.
Ray Daniels
Founder & CEO
Exitoso Cigars