SDVOSB and VOSB Certification
Certification for veteran-owned firms moved to the SBA under the Veteran Small Business Certification program. For VA work in particular, verified status is decisive: the Veterans First Contracting Program places SDVOSB and VOSB firms ahead of other socioeconomic categories.
- Who it's for
- Veteran-owned and service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses
- Primary benefit
- Government-wide SDVOSB set-asides plus VA Veterans First priority
- Term / renewal
- Three years
- Certifying authority
- SBA (Veteran Small Business Certification program)
Key takeaways
- Certification opens doors — it does not win proposals on its own.
- Keep your SAM.gov registration, NAICS list, and capability narrative synchronized with the certification record.
- Target set-aside solicitations where the certification narrows the field to a handful of credible bidders.
- Pair the certification with same-scope past performance to convert eligibility into awards.
Eligibility requirements
At least 51% ownership and control by one or more veterans; for SDVOSB, by veterans with a service-connected disability rated by the VA. The business must qualify as small under the relevant NAICS size standard and the veteran owner must control day-to-day management and long-term decisions.
How to apply
Apply through the SBA's veteran certification portal with your DD-214, VA disability rating letter (for SDVOSB), ownership documents, operating agreements, and financial records. Certification lasts three years, with recertification required to remain eligible.
How to use it competitively
Prioritize VA solicitations first, where the preference hierarchy is strongest, and then pursue government-wide SDVOSB set-asides. Pair your status with clinical, construction, or IT past performance that matches VA scope — status gets you into the pool, delivery evidence wins the award.
FAQ
Who certifies veteran-owned firms now?
The SBA administers veteran small business certification; VA's CVE process was consolidated into it.
Do I need certification for non-VA SDVOSB set-asides?
Yes. Certification is required for SDVOSB set-aside awards across the federal government.
What proof of disability is required?
A VA rating decision letter or equivalent documentation establishing a service-connected disability.
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