Empowering Businesses Through Exclusive Program Benefits
Simi Valley, CA – Savage Machining Inc recently completed the Veteran Institute Procurement (VIP) START Program, a comprehensive training and certification program that helps Veteran-owned businesses strengthen their ability to win government contracts and do business with both military and civilian agencies.
On October 23, 2025, Savage Machining Inc was one of 51 businesses from 20 states to graduate from the Veteran Institute for Procurement (VIP) START Program.
“Participating in the VIP Program is a major step forward for Savage Machining,” said Wade Savage President. “It’s opening doors to new opportunities, partnerships, and resources that are helping us scale our operations and strengthen our position in the industry.”
The first of its kind in the nation, VIP START is facilitated by subject matter experts from industry and government with a goal of increasing the participants’ ability to win and maintain government contracts. VIP START participants receive hands-on market-based instruction that helps establish best business practices for federal government contracting. There are over 20 topics taught, including law, accounting, insurance, human resources, marketing, and proposals.
“We are honored to give back to the men and women who served our country by providing them with the tools they need to succeed as government contractors,” said Barbara Ashe, President of the Montgomery County Chamber Community Foundation. “We hope this training fosters their success as businesses and employers.”
VIP START is an intensive three-day certification program that spans 27 hours. The program is structured for C-level leaders of Veteran-owned small businesses that have been operating for at least one year and have generated revenue during that time. To be eligible, participants must be W-2 employees or work full-time in the company.
The Montgomery County Chamber Community Foundation fully funds the program, which collaborates with various partners and supporters, including the SBA, Lockheed Martin, the State of Maryland, corporate sponsors, and alumni donors. VIP START is available to participants at no cost.
For information: Cassi Bergevin, Cbergevin@SavageMachiningInc.com, (805) 584-8047
For information on VIP: Barbara Ashe, 301-738-0015 x215; bashe@nationalvip.org
For additional information, please visit nationalvip.org
