If you’re a veteran who owns a business, certification could help you compete for contracting opportunities reserved for businesses like yours.
The first step is understanding which certification fits your company and the customers you want to reach. Federal, state, and local programs have different requirements, and their benefits are not interchangeable.
This guide explains the main certification options, who may qualify, and how to get started.
What Is Veteran-Owned Business Certification?
Veteran-owned business certification verifies that a company meets a program’s requirements for veteran ownership, control, and business eligibility.
At the federal level, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) administers the Veteran Small Business Certification program, known as VetCert.
Through VetCert, eligible businesses can receive Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) or Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification. Each designation provides access to different contracting opportunities.
Certification establishes your eligibility for a program. Winning work still requires finding suitable opportunities and demonstrating that your business can meet the buyer’s needs.
Types of Veteran-Owned Business Certifications
Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB)
VOSB certification is for qualifying small businesses owned and controlled by veterans.
Certified VOSBs can pursue designated set-aside and sole-source contracts through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) under its Veterans First Contracting Program.
A set-aside limits competition to businesses that meet specific eligibility requirements. A sole-source award allows a contract to be awarded without a competitive bidding process when the applicable conditions are met.
Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)
SDVOSB certification is for qualifying small businesses owned and controlled by veterans with service-connected disabilities.
Its contracting benefits extend beyond the VA. Certified SDVOSBs can pursue eligible set-aside and sole-source opportunities across the federal government.
Veteran Business Enterprise (VBE) and State Certifications
Some states offer veteran-owned business certification through their own procurement programs. These may use the name Veteran Business Enterprise (VBE) or another designation.
For example, Florida offers state certification for eligible veteran-owned small businesses through its Office of Supplier Development.
Review the specific program before applying. A state certification serves a different procurement system from federal VetCert certification, so choose based on the buyers you want to reach.
Who Qualifies for Federal Veteran-Owned Business Certification?
Owning a business and having served in the military are important starting points, but certification also examines ownership, control, and business size.
For federal certification, key requirements generally include:
- Small-business eligibility: The company must meet the applicable SBA size standard.
- Veteran ownership: At least 51% of the business must be owned and controlled by one or more qualifying veterans.
- Management and control: Qualifying owners must meet the program’s requirements for managing operations and making long-term decisions.
- Service-disabled ownership for SDVOSB: At least 51% must be owned and controlled by qualifying service-disabled veterans.
Additional rules and exceptions can apply. The full federal requirements appear in Title 13, Part 128 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
Your ownership documents and the way your company operates should both support your eligibility.
How Is Veteran Status Verified?
Military service and veteran status must be supported by the records required for the certification program.
SBA’s eligibility guidance refers to veteran or service-disabled veteran status identified by the VA. SDVOSB applicants must also meet the applicable service-connected disability requirements.
If your service history includes Reserve or National Guard service, or your circumstances require further review, use the program’s official eligibility guidance rather than relying on a general description of who qualifies.
How Is Veteran Status Verified?
Military service and veteran status must be supported by the records required for the certification program.
SBA’s eligibility guidance refers to veteran or service-disabled veteran status identified by the VA. SDVOSB applicants must also meet the applicable service-connected disability requirements.
If your service history includes Reserve or National Guard service, or your circumstances require further review, use the program’s official eligibility guidance rather than relying on a general description of who qualifies.
What Happened to the Vets First Verification Program?
Older resources may direct business owners to apply through the VA’s Center for Verification and Evaluation.
Responsibility for federal VOSB and SDVOSB certification transferred from the VA to SBA on January 1, 2023.
The VA’s Veterans First Contracting Program continues, but SBA now handles the certification that establishes eligibility for its veteran contracting preferences.
Businesses seeking federal certification should follow SBA’s current application instructions.
How Can Certification Support Your Business?
The main benefit is eligibility to pursue contracting opportunities associated with your certification.
But certification works best as part of a broader business development plan.
Once certified, consider these next steps:
- Research agencies that buy your products or services.
- Identify opportunities that match your experience and capacity.
- Prepare a capability statement that clearly explains what your company delivers.
- Include your certification in relevant supplier profiles and marketing materials.
- Build relationships with buyers and potential contracting partners.
A capability statement is a short business introduction that outlines your services, experience, qualifications, and contact information.
Lead with the value your company provides. Your certification supports that message, while your capabilities give the buyer a reason to consider you.
Get Help With Veteran-Owned Business Certification
Government Services Exchange helps veteran-owned businesses navigate certification requirements, organize application documentation, and prepare for procurement opportunities.
Whether you’re considering VOSB, SDVOSB, or a state veteran-owned business certification, the starting point is understanding your eligibility and your business goals.
Could certification help your business reach the right buyers? Would a quick conversation help you decide where to start?
Call 866-850-1710 to speak with GSE about your certification options.
