EDWOSB (Economically Disadvantaged Woman-Owned Small Business) Certification
EDWOSB (Economically Disadvantaged Woman-Owned Small Business) certification is an enhanced SBA program for women-owned businesses meeting additional economic disadvantage criteria. EDWOSBs have access to more federal contract set-asides than standard WOSBs, as they can compete in industries where both WOSB and EDWOSB set-asides are available.
Quick Overview
What isEDWOSB?
EDWOSB requires all WOSB criteria plus demonstrated economic disadvantage. Woman owners must have a personal net worth under $850,000 and meet adjusted gross income and fair market value of assets thresholds.
Who Qualifies?
- Meet All WOSB Requirements
- Personal Net Worth Under $850,000
- Adjusted Gross Income Limit
Eligibility Requirements
Key requirements you must meet to qualify for EDWOSB certification
Meet All WOSB Requirements
Business must first qualify as a WOSB: small business, 51% woman-owned, woman-controlled, U.S. citizen owners.
Personal Net Worth Under $850,000
Each woman owner claiming economic disadvantage must have personal net worth below $850,000 (excluding primary residence and business ownership).
Adjusted Gross Income Limit
Average adjusted gross income over three years cannot exceed $400,000.
Fair Market Value of Assets
Fair market value of all assets cannot exceed $6.5 million.
Benefits of EDWOSB Certification
What you gain with EDWOSB certification
Access to all WOSB set-aside contracts plus additional EDWOSB-only opportunities
Sole-source contracts up to $7 million (manufacturing) or $4.5 million (other)
Competitive advantage in more NAICS code categories
Federal 5% contracting goal for women-owned businesses
Enhanced credibility with economic disadvantage verification
Can combine with HUBZone for additional preferences
Application Process
Step-by-step guide to getting your EDWOSB certification
Verify WOSB Eligibility
1-2 daysEnsure you meet all WOSB requirements: small business, 51% woman-owned, woman-controlled.
Document Economic Disadvantage
1-2 weeksGather personal financial statements, tax returns, and asset documentation for each woman owner.
Apply Through Certify.SBA.gov
1-2 weeksComplete the EDWOSB application with all required financial documentation.
SBA Review
30-60 daysSBA reviews application, WOSB eligibility, and economic disadvantage documentation.
Annual Recertification
OngoingAfter approval, recertify annually to maintain EDWOSB status.
Required Documents
Documentation needed for your EDWOSB application
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about EDWOSB certification
What is EDWOSB certification?
EDWOSB (Economically Disadvantaged Woman-Owned Small Business) certification is an enhanced SBA program for woman-owned businesses whose owners meet economic disadvantage thresholds. It provides access to more federal contract set-asides than standard WOSB certification.
What is the net worth limit for EDWOSB?
Each woman owner must have a personal net worth under $850,000. This excludes the value of your primary residence (up to FMV) and your ownership interest in the business applying for certification.
Do I need WOSB certification first?
EDWOSB builds on WOSB requirements. You apply for EDWOSB through the same SBA process, and if you meet economic disadvantage requirements, you receive EDWOSB status. If not, you may still qualify for standard WOSB.
What additional contracts can EDWOSBs access?
EDWOSBs can compete for all WOSB set-asides plus contracts in additional NAICS codes where only EDWOSB (not WOSB) set-asides exist. This expands your federal contracting opportunities significantly.
Is EDWOSB like 8(a) certification?
While both have economic disadvantage requirements, they are separate programs. 8(a) has more extensive requirements and provides additional business development assistance. You can hold both certifications if you qualify.
How is net worth calculated for EDWOSB?
Net worth includes all assets minus liabilities. Primary residence equity is excluded if reasonable. Business ownership in the applying firm is excluded. Retirement accounts are included at current value minus early withdrawal penalties.
Related Certifications
Other certifications that may benefit your business
Ready to Get Your EDWOSB Certification?
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