Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB)
Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB)
Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB)
The Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contract Program is a government initiative administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Its purpose is to level the playing field for women-owned companies in federal contracting by setting aside opportunities for certified WOSBs in specific industries where women are underrepresented.
What is the WOSB Program
The WOSB program gives eligible women-owned businesses access to set-aside and sole-source contracts. This helps promote diversity and competitiveness in the federal marketplace while supporting women entrepreneurs. To participate, companies must complete the SBA WOSB certification process and remain compliant with program requirements.
WOSB Certification
WOSB certification is required for businesses that want to compete for set-aside contracts under the program. Companies can apply through the SBA’s online portal, certify.wosb, or use an approved third-party certifier.
WOSB Certification Requirements
To qualify for WOSB certification, businesses must meet SBA requirements, including:
At least 51 percent ownership and control by one or more women who are U.S. citizens
Women must manage day-to-day operations and make long-term decisions
Business must qualify as a small business under SBA size standards
Proper documentation must be submitted through the SBA WOSB application process
Once certified, the business becomes a certified WOSB eligible for set-aside opportunities.
SBA WOSB Program Benefits
The SBA WOSB program offers several advantages:
Access to WOSB set-aside and sole-source contracts
Opportunities in industries where women are underrepresented
Increased visibility as a certified WOSB in the federal marketplace
Ability to strengthen teaming opportunities with prime contractors seeking to meet subcontracting goals
WOSB vs EDWOSB
The WOSB program is closely related to the Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB) program. While all EDWOSBs qualify as WOSBs, not all WOSBs qualify as EDWOSBs.
Key difference:
WOSB: Women-owned small business that meets standard certification requirements
EDWOSB: WOSB that also meets specific economic disadvantage criteria, such as personal net worth and adjusted gross income limits
Both certifications provide access to federal contracting opportunities, but EDWOSB businesses may qualify for additional set-aside contracts.
WOSB Application Process
The SBA WOSB application is completed online through certify.wosb. Applicants must upload required documents, including proof of ownership, citizenship, business formation records, and resumes. After review, the SBA grants certification, which must be updated regularly to maintain eligibility.
How GovDash Helps WOSB Businesses
Winning contracts as a certified WOSB requires more than certification—it requires strong, compliant proposals. GovDash helps women-owned small businesses compete more effectively by generating compliance matrices, organizing proposal content, and streamlining capture planning. With GovDash, WOSBs can save time, reduce administrative burden, and submit stronger proposals.
Final Thoughts
The Women-Owned Small Business program opens valuable contracting opportunities for women entrepreneurs. With SBA WOSB certification, businesses gain access to set-aside and sole-source contracts, increase visibility, and strengthen their competitive edge. Understanding WOSB vs EDWOSB requirements ensures women-owned firms take full advantage of these federal programs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the WOSB Federal Contract Program?
It is an SBA program that provides contracting opportunities for women-owned businesses in industries where women are underrepresented.
How do I get WOSB certification?
You can apply online through the SBA’s portal at certify.wosb or through an approved third-party certifier.
What are the requirements for WOSB certification?
At least 51% ownership and control by women, U.S. citizenship, small business size standards, and women managing daily operations and long-term decisions.
What is the difference between WOSB and EDWOSB?
EDWOSB businesses meet additional economic disadvantage criteria, giving them access to more set-aside opportunities.
Where can I find the SBA WOSB certification application? The official application is available online at certify.wosb through the SBA website.