THE ORANGE PEEL COLLABORATIVE RECEIVES VETERAN INSTITUTE FOR PROCUREMENT CERTIFICATION

SBA Program Positions Woman Veteran Owned Business for Scalable Success 

Tia Christopher, Founder of The Orange Peel Collaborative 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 June 25, 2026, The Orange Peel Collaborative was one of 43 businesses from 18 states, plus Washington, DC, to graduate from the Veteran Institute for Procurement (VIP) START Program.

“The entire program was world class. I am so appreciative of the breadth of knowledge that the instructors shared with us and the time that Executives, both trainers and alumni, devoted to this program. Since our training wrapped, I have follow-up meetings with fellow attendees and instructors. The network is engaged and top tier and I cannot say enough about this program.” 

- Tia Christopher, Founder,The Orange Peel Collaborative

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: Contact The Orange Peel Collaborative tia@theopcollab.com 

For information on VIP: Barbara Ashe, 301-738-0015 x215; bashe@nationalvip.org

For additional information, please visit nationalvip.org