As a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), you already carry a designation that sets your business apart. But that’s just the beginning. There are several certifications available to SDVOSBs that open doors to government contracts, corporate partnerships, grants, and exclusive marketing opportunities.
This guide breaks down the most valuable certifications, what they mean, how to get started, and how they can give your SDVOSB a competitive edge.
A business certification is an official verification by a federal, state, or private organization that your company meets specific criteria—such as ownership by a service-disabled veteran, minority, woman, or business located in an economically distressed area.
For SDVOSBs, certifications are more than labels. They are:
Formerly verified through the VA (VetBiz), SDVOSB certification is now processed via the Small Business Administration’s Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert) program.
Benefits:
How to Get Started:
Timeframe:
45–90 days on average.
This is similar to SDVOSB but does not require a disability rating.
Benefits:
How to Get Started:
Benefits:
How to Get Started:
Timeframe:
60–90 days average.
Benefits:
Eligibility Requirements:
How to Get Started:
Benefits:
Eligibility (SDVOSBs may qualify if also socially/economically disadvantaged):
How to Get Started:
Benefits:
How to Get Started:
Note: Many SDVOSBs use a consultant to prepare the GSA package.
These are private sector certifications that give you access to supplier opportunities with major corporations.
Examples:
Benefits:
How to Get Started:
Most SDVOSBs are eligible for multiple certifications. For example:
Why this matters:
Stacking certifications allows you to qualify for multiple bid types, more visibility, and stronger partnerships—especially when teaming with prime contractors.
If you’re an SDVOSB and you haven’t gotten certified, you’re leaving opportunity on the table. Government agencies have mandates to award contracts to certified businesses—but if you’re not in the system, you won’t even be considered.
These certifications aren’t just about getting contracts. They’re about:
Are you certified yet? What certifications have helped your SDVOSB the most? Let’s share resources and support below.
#SDVOSBCertification #VetCert #HUBZone #8aProgram #GSAContracting #VeteranOwnedBusiness #GetCertified #SmallBusinessGrowth #SDVOSBForum #SupplierDiversity #FederalContracts #GovernmentContracting
This guide breaks down the most valuable certifications, what they mean, how to get started, and how they can give your SDVOSB a competitive edge.
What Is a Certification, and Why Does It Matter?
A business certification is an official verification by a federal, state, or private organization that your company meets specific criteria—such as ownership by a service-disabled veteran, minority, woman, or business located in an economically distressed area.
For SDVOSBs, certifications are more than labels. They are:
- Your ticket to set-aside contracts
- A tool for building trust and authority
- The basis for priority in agency bidding
- Required for listing in procurement databases
- Helpful in forming strategic partnerships
Core SDVOSB Certification Types
1. VA-Certified SDVOSB (Through SBA)
Formerly verified through the VA (VetBiz), SDVOSB certification is now processed via the Small Business Administration’s Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert) program.
Benefits:
- Eligible for SDVOSB set-aside contracts with the Department of Veterans Affairs and other agencies
- Access to federal contracting preference programs
- Qualify for VOSB/SDVOSB directories used by primes
How to Get Started:
- Register with [SBA VetCert Portal]
- Provide documentation: DD214, disability rating letter, business formation docs
- Pass ownership and control verification
Timeframe:
45–90 days on average.
2. VOSB (Veteran-Owned Small Business)
This is similar to SDVOSB but does not require a disability rating.
Benefits:
- Access to VOSB-only opportunities in some state and local programs
- Directory listing on various supplier diversity platforms
- Build brand trust in the private sector
How to Get Started:
- Also through SBA VetCert
- Same portal and process, minus the disability documentation
3. New York State SDVOB Certification (for NY-based businesses)
Benefits:
- NYS agencies must award 6% of contracts to certified SDVOBs
- Access to the OGS SDVOB directory used by primes and subcontractors
- Strong credibility in state and local bids
How to Get Started:
- Visit the NYS Office of General Services (OGS) SDVOB program site
- Submit application, including proof of service-disability, business ownership, and operation
- Prepare for interview or site visit
Timeframe:
60–90 days average.
4. HUBZone Certification (Historically Underutilized Business Zone)
Benefits:
- 10% price preference in full and open contract bids
- Set-aside eligibility for HUBZone-certified businesses
- Increases your chance of winning competitive federal bids
Eligibility Requirements:
- Principal office must be in a designated HUBZone
- 35% of employees must live in a HUBZone
- Must be a small business (per NAICS code)
How to Get Started:
- Use SBA’s HUBZone map to verify location
- Apply via SBA’s general certification portal
- Provide business docs, employee info, and HUBZone mapping
5. 8(a) Business Development Program
Benefits:
- Access to sole-source federal contracts
- Dedicated SBA Business Opportunity Specialists
- Reserved contract pools for 8(a) firms
Eligibility (SDVOSBs may qualify if also socially/economically disadvantaged):
- Must meet economic disadvantage thresholds
- Must be in business for at least 2 years
- Must be owned 51%+ by socially/economically disadvantaged individual (may include veterans in some cases)
How to Get Started:
- Complete SBA’s 8(a) online application
- Include business financials, owner net worth, and personal history
- Must re-certify annually during 9-year program
6. GSA Schedule / MAS Contract (Optional but Powerful)
Benefits:
- Sell directly to federal agencies
- Price negotiation is pre-set (faster contracting)
- Listed in GSA Advantage marketplace
How to Get Started:
- Get all other certifications first
- Register at SAM.gov
- Prepare capabilities statement and pricelist
- Apply through GSA eOffer system
Note: Many SDVOSBs use a consultant to prepare the GSA package.
7. Corporate Supplier Diversity Certifications
These are private sector certifications that give you access to supplier opportunities with major corporations.
Examples:
- NGLCC: For LGBT-owned veteran businesses
- WBENC: For woman-owned SDVOSBs
- NMSDC: For minority veteran-owned businesses
Benefits:
- Exposure to Fortune 500 procurement teams
- Invitation-only matchmaking events
- Database visibility
How to Get Started:
- Apply through each organization’s website
- Submit proof of ownership, control, and diversity status
- Attend supplier diversity outreach events
Strategic Tip: Stack Your Certifications
Most SDVOSBs are eligible for multiple certifications. For example:
- A service-disabled veteran who is a minority can qualify for SDVOSB, HUBZone, 8(a), and NMSDC
- A woman veteran can qualify for SDVOSB, WOSB, WBENC, and HUBZone
Why this matters:
Stacking certifications allows you to qualify for multiple bid types, more visibility, and stronger partnerships—especially when teaming with prime contractors.
Tools to Help You Apply
- SAM.gov: Register your business for federal contracts
- SBA Certify Portal: For VetCert, HUBZone, and 8(a)
- Capability Statement Builder: Prepare a one-pager for outreach
- Dynamic Small Business Search (DSBS): SBA’s business search tool—keep this up to date
- NAICS Code Lookup: Use the correct code for your industry
Final Thoughts: Why You Can’t Afford to Wait
If you’re an SDVOSB and you haven’t gotten certified, you’re leaving opportunity on the table. Government agencies have mandates to award contracts to certified businesses—but if you’re not in the system, you won’t even be considered.
These certifications aren’t just about getting contracts. They’re about:
- Positioning your business to grow
- Building trust with large partners
- Opening new revenue channels
- Standing out in a crowded market
Are you certified yet? What certifications have helped your SDVOSB the most? Let’s share resources and support below.
#SDVOSBCertification #VetCert #HUBZone #8aProgram #GSAContracting #VeteranOwnedBusiness #GetCertified #SmallBusinessGrowth #SDVOSBForum #SupplierDiversity #FederalContracts #GovernmentContracting