VOSB Certification and Program

Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB)

A Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) is a small business that is at least 51 percent owned and controlled by one or more U.S. military veterans. The VOSB program is designed to recognize veterans’ service and support their transition into business ownership by providing access to federal contracting opportunities.

What is a VOSB

The VOSB meaning is straightforward: it is a business owned and managed by veterans who meet SBA small business size standards. While not as specialized as the Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) designation, VOSBs still benefit from increased visibility in the federal marketplace, especially with agencies that have goals for contracting with veteran-owned firms.

VOSB Certification

VOSB certification is now managed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Businesses must apply through the SBA’s online certification portal, providing proof of veteran status, ownership, control, and small business eligibility.

How to Get VOSB Certification

To obtain SBA VOSB certification, businesses must:

• Demonstrate at least 51% veteran ownership and control
  
  

• Show that veterans manage day-to-day operations and long-term decision-making
  
  

• Qualify as a small business under SBA standards
  
  

• Submit documentation through the SBA VOSB certification portal
  
  

Once approved, businesses are officially certified VOSBs and can use their designation to compete for opportunities and partnerships.

SBA VOSB Program

The SBA VOSB program is part of the broader federal small business contracting initiatives. It provides resources, guidance, and certification to help veterans grow their businesses and compete for federal work. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) also supports VOSBs through procurement opportunities.

VOSB Logo

Certified companies may use the official VOSB logo on proposals, websites, and marketing materials. This branding signals credibility and certification, making it easier to stand out in the federal marketplace.

VOSB vs SDVOSB

It’s common to compare SDVOSB vs VOSB:

• VOSB: Veteran-owned small business with at least 51% ownership and control by veterans
  
  

• SDVOSB: VOSB that also qualifies as service-disabled, with additional SBA certification and set-aside opportunities
  
  

While both certifications recognize veteran ownership, SDVOSBs have expanded federal contracting opportunities due to a government-wide 3% contracting goal for service-disabled veterans.

VOSB Benefits

VOSB certification helps businesses:

• Compete more effectively for contracts with veteran preferences
  
  

• Partner with prime contractors seeking veteran-owned subcontractors
  
  

• Leverage veteran status in marketing and business development
  
  

• Access federal and VA procurement opportunities
  
  

How GovDash Helps VOSBs

Winning contracts as a VOSB requires strong, compliant proposals. GovDash makes it easier by automating compliance matrices, organizing proposal responses, and streamlining capture management. This helps VOSBs highlight their veteran-owned status while reducing time spent on administrative tasks.

Final Thoughts

The Veteran-Owned Small Business program provides opportunities for veterans to build and grow businesses in the federal marketplace. With SBA VOSB certification, firms gain recognition, access to procurement opportunities, and the ability to display the official VOSB logo. Whether pursuing set-asides or teaming with larger contractors, certified VOSBs are well-positioned to compete.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a VOSB?
A VOSB is a Veteran-Owned Small Business, certified by the SBA as at least 51% owned and controlled by veterans.

How do I get VOSB certification?
Apply through the SBA VOSB certification portal by submitting proof of veteran ownership, control, and small business status.

Does the VA offer VOSB opportunities?
Yes. The Department of Veterans Affairs is one of the largest supporters of veteran-owned small businesses and awards many contracts to VOSBs.

What is the difference between VOSB and SDVOSB?
SDVOSBs are VOSBs that also qualify as service-disabled, with access to additional set-aside opportunities.

Can I use the VOSB logo once certified? Yes. Certified businesses may use the official VOSB logo to market their veteran-owned status.