Lighting the Way: Veteran-Owned TBD Lighting Shines Bright
After 16 years of service in the U.S. Army—from 1992 to 2008—Deb Kravitz retired as a Communications Specialist and Electrician, having served across NH, MA, WA, Canada, and overseas. Today, she’s still on a mission—only now, her battlefield is energy inefficiency, and her tools are expertise, innovation, and light.
From Service to Service
When Deb founded TBD Lighting, LLC in 2017, she carried forward the values learned in uniform: precision, resilience, and service before self. As a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned and Woman-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB and WOSB), TBD Lighting leads with purpose—helping clients across the country reduce energy use, cut costs, and enhance workplace well-being.
Deb laughs when she calls herself a “professional light bulb counter,” but her impact is anything but small. From office complexes and schools to government facilities, her team provides comprehensive energy audits and cutting-edge lighting solutions that deliver up to 50% cost savings and improve everything from productivity to mood.
The SBDC Connection
When Deb lost her job of ten years, she faced an uncertain future. Encouraged by peers, she took a leap and built her own company—but she knew she needed business guidance. Through the Pathway to Work program, Deb connected with her NH SBDC Advisor, Julie Glosner, who helped her write a business plan, develop financial projections, and navigate the complex world of government contracting.
Eight years later, Deb and Julie still meet regularly. TBD Lighting has grown steadily—adding services, securing government contracts, and achieving one of its highest revenue years in 2024. “If Julie doesn’t know the answer, she finds someone who does!” – Deb K.
Lighting That Changes Lives
TBD Lighting’s work reaches far beyond kilowatts and invoices. In schools and workplaces, improved lighting enhances focus, reduces fatigue, and even boosts learning outcomes. Deb’s projects prove that smart lighting doesn’t just save energy—it transforms environments.
A Bright Future
Despite shifting policies and funding challenges, Deb remains optimistic. TBD Lighting has expanded into new areas like EV infrastructure and biosecurity, while continuing to support military and government clients nationwide.
Her advice to entrepreneurs: “Be true to yourself. Run your business the way you believe in.”
For Deb, every project is another chance to serve—illuminating spaces, saving energy, and improving lives. From soldier to CEO, she’s proof that veterans don’t stop serving when the uniform comes off.