Service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses (SDVOSBs) and veteran-owned small businesses (VOSBs) can win contracts set aside just for them, especially at the Department of Veterans Affairs. To count, you must be certified by SBA's Veteran Small Business Certification program (VetCert), which took over from the VA's old verification program in January 2023.
Who qualifies
- The business is small under the size standard for the NAICS code (check here).
- At least 51% owned and controlled by one or more veterans (VOSB) or service-disabled veterans (SDVOSB).
- For SDVOSB, the owner has a service-connected disability rating from the VA or the Department of Defense.
- The veteran owners manage day-to-day operations and make long-term decisions.
How to get certified
- Register in SAM.gov.
- Apply on SBA's VetCert site (free) with your DD-214, the disability rating letter (for SDVOSB), and the company's ownership and governing documents.
- Respond to SBA questions. Once approved, certification generally lasts three years.
- Update your SAM.gov representations so buyers see your status.
What it gets you
- VA "Veterans First" set-asides: VA gives priority to SDVOSBs, then VOSBs. See how to bid VA contracts.
- Governmentwide SDVOSB set-asides at other agencies.
- Prime contractors looking for veteran-owned subcontractors.
Frequently asked questions
Who certifies SDVOSBs now?
SBA's Veteran Small Business Certification program (VetCert). The VA's former CVE verification moved to SBA in January 2023.
Is SDVOSB certification free?
Yes. Applying to SBA is free.
Can I self-certify as an SDVOSB?
Not for set-aside contracts. You need SBA VetCert certification to win SDVOSB or VOSB set-asides.
Find open veteran set-asides on our contracts board.