California’s 2025 wildfire season has already inflicted wide-ranging devastation, with Los Angeles County experiencing major blazes like the Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst. Together, these fires have consumed over 40,000 acres, destroyed thousands of structures, and pushed the estimated damage to $250 billion.

The Federal VIPR Program is now open for the 2025 season, running from January 1, 2025, to March 10, 2025, to help rebuild and bring in skilled professionals. This specialized initiative connects qualified contractors with federal funding opportunities, enabling them to assist in debris removal, infrastructure repairs, and community rehabilitation.

Wildfire Impacts and the Need for Contractors

When a wildfire sweeps through a region, roads, utilities, and entire neighborhoods can be left in ruins. Federal agencies such as FEMA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers respond by allocating significant funds to urgent recovery efforts. The VIPR Program aims to make these opportunities more accessible, especially to small and disadvantaged businesses looking for a chance to step forward with their skills and resources.

What the VIPR Program Offers

• Simplified Pathway: The VIPR Program eliminates some of the extensive red tape seen in standard federal contracting.
• Focused Projects: Most funded efforts target wildfire cleanup, temporary housing solutions, environmental restoration, and broader community rebuilding.
• Priority for Set-Asides: Contractors who qualify under small business or other set-aside categories have a strong opportunity to secure projects with less competition.

Steps to Get Started

1. Register or Update Your SAM Profile
   Make sure your System for Award Management (SAM) registration is current. Carefully choose NAICS codes that match services needed for wildfire recovery.

2. Submit Your VIPR Application
   During the open window—January 1, 2025, through March 10, 2025—complete the necessary forms. Keep deadlines in mind: late submissions often lead to missed contract opportunities.

3. Prepare Essential Documents
   Compile proof of insurance, bonding, and any certifications. Gather references and past performance information that highlight your qualifications for wildfire or disaster recovery projects.

4. Watch for Upcoming RFPs
   Federal contract announcements begin rolling out shortly after VIPR registration closes. Stay informed via official procurement sites, and be ready to submit a comprehensive proposal.

5. Stay Compliant and Up to Date
   Whether it’s bonding capacity, insurance, or set-aside eligibility, keep your certifications current to stand out in the competitive federal marketplace.

Broader Context on Federal Disaster Assistance

California has seen multiple wildfire disasters in recent years—from 2017 to 2020, and now the 2025 season. FEMA’s past disaster assistance programs have shown that federal priorities go beyond temporary fixes to foster community resilience, environmental rehabilitation, and economic revitalization. The VIPR Program is part of this larger effort, focusing specifically on wildfire response and creating a swifter process for contractors to engage in critical projects.

Why This Matters to Your Business

Securing federal contracts for wildfire recovery can yield significant revenue while allowing you to contribute to a worthy cause. Contracts often reach several million dollars, and there is a growing emphasis on partnering with smaller entities that have the local knowledge and flexibility to address immediate challenges.

Next Steps for Interested Contractors

If you’re ready to pursue wildfire recovery contracts, don’t hesitate. The VIPR Program window is limited to just a few weeks at the start of the year. USFCR can support you by guiding your SAM registration, ensuring you fulfill requirements, and helping you respond to new RFPs effectively. Together, we can place your business on the frontline of rebuilding California’s wildfire-affected areas.