Federal Certification
EDWOSB (Economically Disadvantaged Woman-Owned Small Business) Certification
EDWOSB (Economically Disadvantaged Woman-Owned Small Business) is the SBA WOSB category for eligible firms whose qualifying women owners also meet economic-disadvantage limits. Under current FAR procedures, EDWOSB and WOSB set-asides apply to different SBA-designated NAICS groups, and each solicitation must satisfy the applicable competition conditions.
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.
Eligibility Requirements
Common factors reviewed for EDWOSB
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.
Potential Program Benefits of EDWOSB Certification
Program benefits for EDWOSB certification
Eligibility for EDWOSB set-asides in underrepresented NAICS codes when FAR conditions are met
Eligibility as a WOSB for substantially underrepresented NAICS codes when FAR conditions are met
Potential sole-source awards up to $8.5 million (manufacturing) or $5.5 million (other NAICS codes), when FAR 19.1506 conditions are met
Participation toward the 5% government-wide WOSB prime-contracting goal
Application Process
Common preparation and agency-review steps for EDWOSB certification
Verify WOSB Eligibility
Ensure you meet all WOSB requirements: small business, 51% woman-owned, woman-controlled.
Document Economic Disadvantage
Gather personal financial statements, tax returns, and asset documentation for each woman owner.
Apply Through MySBA Certifications
Complete the EDWOSB application in MySBA Certifications with the required financial documentation.
SBA Review
Up to 90 calendar days after a complete package, whenever practicableSBA reviews application, WOSB eligibility, and economic disadvantage documentation.
Maintain Certification
OngoingKeep SAM.gov information current, report material changes, and complete the applicable SBA program examination. SBA currently holds annual WOSB/EDWOSB attestations in abeyance.
Commonly Requested Documents
The current agency or certifier checklist controls the records needed for a EDWOSB application
Apply yourself or use paid support
You can apply directly through the issuing agency or certifier. Our optional paid service helps organize the checklist and review your application materials within an agreed scope.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about EDWOSB certification
What is EDWOSB certification?
EDWOSB is the category within SBA's WOSB Federal Contract Program for eligible WOSBs whose qualifying women owners meet additional economic-disadvantage limits. EDWOSB and WOSB set-aside eligibility depends on the solicitation's NAICS code and FAR 19.1505 conditions.
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?
Under FAR 19.1505, contracting officers may use EDWOSB set-asides in NAICS codes where WOSBs are underrepresented. Certified EDWOSBs also qualify as WOSBs for set-asides in substantially underrepresented codes. The current SBA NAICS list, market research, fair-price expectation, and solicitation control.
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?
SBA applies the exclusions and calculation rules in 13 CFR 127.203. The ownership interest in the applicant firm and equity in the primary residence are generally excluded, and funds invested in an official retirement account are excluded from the personal-net-worth assessment. Income and total-asset tests are separate.
Primary Sources
Reviewed July 20, 2026.
Related Certifications
Separate program guides that may be relevant to your business
Get help with SAM.gov and certifications
Ask about paperwork and paid support on a free call.