From Marine Corps Service to Successful Entrepreneurship
The U.S. Small Business Administration has named Thomas Hartley, owner of Hartley Transportation in Pembroke, the 2026 SBA’s New Hampshire Small Business Person of the Year.
After proudly serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, Thomas Hartley applied discipline and leadership he learned in the service to launch his own business. In 1992, he founded Hartley Transportation, LLC, following a successful career with several of the nation’s largest less-than-truckload (LTL) carriers.
Hartley Transportation is an independent Landstar agent and provides dependable truckload, less-than-truckload, rail, air, and ocean freight services across North America as well as servicing clients in several foreign markets. As the business expanded, Tom formed Hartley Management group in 2001 as a commercial real estate and investment enterprise. His ventures today include operations in numerous industries, logistics support, and international product distribution from several countries.
Over the years, the company has grown and now marks 34 years in business, a testament to Tom’s leadership and entrepreneurial drive. With support from Capital Regional Development Council (CRDC) and TD Bank, Hartley Transportation obtained an SBA 504 loan in 2001 to purchase the office building that serves as Hartley Transportation’s headquarters. Recently certified as a Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB), Hartley earned recognition and strengthened the company’s ability to compete for federal contracting opportunities.
Beyond his business success, Tom is deeply involved in his community serving over a decade on his town’s planning board, coaching youth soccer, instructing martial arts, and supporting the Wounded Warrior Project.
“Tom Hartley exemplifies the spirit of service, leadership, and dedication that defines veteran entrepreneurs,” said Amy Bassett, SBA New Hampshire district director. “His story is a powerful reminder that the skills, work ethic and ambition learned while serving one’s county can carry forward and continue through entrepreneurship and community commitment. This Marine veteran has built a diversified transportation and logistics network that continues to strengthen New Hampshire’s economy while supporting trade and industry across the borders.”
Tom was recently recognized by the National Coffee Association (NCA) for his efforts in developing an anti-theft and fraud initiative to combat organized crime which targets this high value industry. Also, in April of this year, Tom was recognized by Landstar for his revenue contribution as an independent agent since 1992.
Award winners will be honored at the SBA NH 2026 Small Business Week celebration on Thursday May 7, 2026 at the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, 2 Institute Dr, Concord, NH 03301 from 4:30-6:30 pm. Register to join us.
Tom will travel to Washington DC for National SBA award ceremony, where one national winner will be announced ahead of a possible White House visit the following day.