The SDVOSB program reserves federal contracts for small businesses owned and controlled by veterans with service-connected disabilities. The government has a statutory goal for prime contract dollars awarded to SDVOSBs.
Who qualifies
- A small business at least 51% owned and controlled by one or more service-disabled veterans (or, in some cases involving permanent and severe disability, with a spouse or permanent caregiver).
- Service-disabled veterans must control day-to-day management and long-term decisions.
Certification
Since January 2023, SBA certifies veteran-owned (VOSB) and service-disabled veteran-owned (SDVOSB) small businesses through its VetCert program, which took over certification from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Certification is required to compete for SDVOSB set-asides.
Benefits
- SDVOSB set-asides and sole-source awards across federal agencies, under FAR subpart 19.14.
- At the Department of Veterans Affairs, the "Veterans First" contracting program gives priority to SDVOSBs and then VOSBs.
Details: SBA veteran contracting programs and 13 CFR Part 128.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules change — always check the solicitation and the official sources linked here.