SDVOSB Certification and Program | GovCon Glossary

Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)

A Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) is a federal contracting designation for businesses owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans. The program, managed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), provides set-aside and sole-source contracting opportunities to help veterans succeed in the federal marketplace.

What is an SDVOSB

The SDVOSB meaning is tied to both ownership and veteran status. At least 51 percent of the business must be owned and controlled by one or more service-disabled veterans. These veterans must also manage day-to-day operations and make long-term decisions. The goal of the program is to recognize the sacrifices of service-disabled veterans by helping them build and grow successful small businesses.

SDVOSB Certification

To compete for SDVOSB contracts, firms must complete the SBA SDVOSB certification process. Previously, verification was managed by the VA, but as of January 2023, the SBA is the official certifying body.

SDVOSB Certification Requirements

To qualify, companies must meet the following requirements:

• At least 51% owned and controlled by one or more service-disabled veterans
  
  

• Veterans must have a service-connected disability rating from the VA
  
  

• The business must be small under applicable SBA size standards
  
  

• Veterans must manage day-to-day operations and long-term decision-making
  
  

Once approved, companies are considered a certified SDVOSB and eligible for set-aside opportunities.

Where to Find SDVOSB Contracts

SDVOSB contracts are available across federal agencies, with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) awarding a large share. Contractors can search for opportunities on SAM.gov, the SBA website, or through agency procurement forecasts. Many agencies also have subcontracting opportunities where primes are required to meet SDVOSB participation goals.

SDVOSB Program Benefits

The Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business program offers key advantages:

• Access to SDVOSB set-aside and sole-source contracts
  
  

• Increased opportunities with the VA and other agencies with veteran contracting goals
  
  

• A 3% governmentwide contracting goal reserved for SDVOSBs
  
  

• Strong teaming opportunities with large primes seeking to meet subcontracting requirements
  
  

SDVOSB Logo and Branding

Certified businesses can use the SDVOSB logo to promote their status in proposals, marketing materials, and capability statements. This logo demonstrates compliance and certification under the SBA program.

SDVOSB Grants and Support

While there are no direct federal SDVOSB grants, certification enhances access to federal contracts, which serve as the primary funding and growth mechanism. Some state governments and nonprofit organizations provide additional grants or resources to support service-disabled veteran entrepreneurs.

How GovDash Helps SDVOSBs

Winning SDVOSB contracts requires compliant, competitive proposals. GovDash helps SDVOSBs by automating compliance matrices, streamlining proposal development, and organizing past performance data. With GovDash, SDVOSBs can focus on highlighting their veteran-owned advantages while reducing administrative workload.

Final Thoughts

The Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business program is a powerful pathway for veterans to build successful companies in the federal marketplace. With SBA SDVOSB certification, businesses gain access to set-aside contracts, sole-source awards, and increased teaming opportunities. Certification and strong proposals give SDVOSBs the tools to compete and grow while honoring their service.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is an SDVOSB?
An SDVOSB is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, certified by the SBA to compete for federal set-aside and sole-source contracts.

How do I get SDVOSB certification?
Businesses must apply through the SBA certification portal, providing proof of veteran status, service-connected disability, ownership, and control.

What are the SDVOSB certification requirements?
Requirements include 51% ownership and control by service-disabled veterans, VA disability rating, and SBA size standards.

Where can I find SDVOSB contracts?
Contracts can be found on SAM.gov, SBA resources, and agency forecasts. The Department of Veterans Affairs is a major source of SDVOSB awards.

Are there SDVOSB grants available?
There are no direct federal SDVOSB grants, but certification improves access to federal contracts and some state or nonprofit programs may offer grants.