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Jumpstart Your Federal Contracting Success with VIP START Training

VIP START is an entrepreneurial program created for Veteran-owned small businesses ready to enter the federal market. Our expert-designed curriculum delivers practical tools and strategies to help you compete and win. Learn how to avoid costly mistakes and position your company for procurement success from day one.

  • Since its launch in April 2016, 1,537 companies have graduated from VIP START.

  • On average, VIP START graduate companies are in business for 5 years and have 3 full-time employees.

VIP is nationally recognized by the Small Business Administration, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, and leading federal agencies for championing Veteran-Owned and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses. The training program empowers agencies to reach their VOSB and SDVOSB goals faster and more effectively.

VIP START graduate companies increased their revenue by an average of 96% within their first year of graduation and 181% two years after graduation.

How we help Veteran-owned small businesses

How We Accelerate Success

VIP START surrounds you with a powerful network of industry leaders and experienced peers. You will learn best business practices and gain insights into navigating the federal marketplace.

  • A new network of key relationships
  • Learn best business practices
  • Learn from industry and government
  • Navigate the federal marketplace

Eligibility Requirements

For-profit Veteran-Owned small business

In business for at least one year

Generated revenue in the past year

Owner who is working full-time in the company

Live website

Active SAM.gov registration

Sample Curriculum

Requirements to do Business with a Prime or Government

Strategic Planning in the Federal Market

Accounting / Budgets / Developing Rates Compliance

Cybersecurity

Contracting – Sub-Contracting/ RFP/ RFI

Operational Program Controls

Financing / Capital Management / Banking

Human Assets Management

Business Insurance

Business Development / Proposals

Attendance Requirements

Full attendance is required to graduate. If a participant misses more than 3 hours, their enrollment in the session will be terminated and they will be charged the cancellation fee.

Cancellation Policy

Upon acceptance into the VIP Program participants must provide a credit card to secure their spot. VIP participants will not be charged for services outlined above. The credit card will only be used if the VIP participant cancels their participation in the program after the date that is noted in their acceptance email. Cancellations must be received in writing. The cancellation charge is $1,000.

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