Getting Started
What Is the Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Program?
Understand SBA VetCert, SDVOSB and VOSB distinctions, and certification-specific contracting routes.
Distinguish the business categories
SBA administers veteran business certification through VetCert. Service-disabled veteran-owned and veteran-owned categories are related but not interchangeable. Certified SDVOSBs can pursue applicable government-wide opportunities, while certified VOSBs have a distinct role in VA's Veterans First program.
Review before applying
- 01Read the current official requirements for the exact status sought.
- 02Verify qualifying ownership, actual control, business size, and required veteran evidence.
- 03Review governing documents and management arrangements.
- 04Gather requested records securely and use SBA's current application route.
- 05Understand ongoing obligations and when procurement eligibility is measured.
Avoid automatic assumptions
A veteran owner does not alone establish every required condition. A state veteran-business credential or self-description is not necessarily federal certification. A pending application does not authorize an approved-status claim.
Build the business alongside certification
Identify buyers of your capability and learn their procurement routes. Certification may enable participation in specified opportunities, but it does not create demand or assure award. Accurate representations, relevant evidence, sustainable pricing, and the ability to perform remain essential.
Official sources
Check current instructions and requirements directly with the relevant agency.
Next guide
What Is a Total Small Business Set-Aside?
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