Derik Ellis

Born and raised in Idaho, Derik Ellis served in the U.S. Air Force before returning to Boise to work in the software industry. After helping several software companies scale, he began consultant work with manufacturers and noticed there were gaps in tools and support. He launched Vessel eight years ago to address those needs and has since rolled out software solutions across the United States.

Ellis shares that being recognized as the U.S. Small Business Administration’s 2025 Veteran-Owned Small Business Person of the Year for Idaho was a major milestone for him.

“I’m drawn to big, meaningful challenges with long-term impact,” Ellis said. “Vessel has directly supported many manufacturers in Idaho, helping them identify operational gaps, strengthen their supply chains, and prepare for growth. Our work strengthens local economies by helping businesses stay competitive in a global market.”

Looking ahead, Ellis anticipates scaling Vessel’s technology in new states as well as in federal agency networks.

He explained, “We’re aiming to empower thousands of manufacturers and small businesses with actionable data, stronger partnerships and streamlined access to growth opportunities.”