VOSB (Veteran-Owned Small Business) Certification
VOSB (Veteran-Owned Small Business) certification verifies that a small business is at least 51% owned and controlled by one or more veterans. While there is no federal contracting set-aside goal specifically for VOSBs, certification validates veteran ownership for procurement preferences and opens doors to veteran-focused contracting opportunities.
Quick Overview
What isVOSB?
VOSB certification requires the business to be a small business under SBA size standards, at least 51% owned by veterans, with veterans controlling management and daily operations.
Who Qualifies?
- Veteran Status
- 51% Veteran Ownership
- Veteran Control
Eligibility Requirements
Key requirements you must meet to qualify for VOSB certification
Veteran Status
Owner(s) must be veterans as defined by 38 U.S.C. 101(2): served on active duty and was discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
51% Veteran Ownership
One or more veterans must unconditionally own at least 51% of the business.
Veteran Control
Veterans must control the management and daily business operations. The highest officer position must be held by a veteran.
Small Business Size
Business must qualify as small under SBA size standards for its primary NAICS code.
Benefits of VOSB Certification
What you gain with VOSB certification
Verified veteran status for contracting credibility
Access to veteran-focused procurement preferences
Foundation for SDVOSB certification if service-disabled
Participation in VA Vets First contracting program (if SDVOSB)
Networking through veteran business organizations
Some agencies have informal veteran preferences
Application Process
Step-by-step guide to getting your VOSB certification
Verify SAM Registration
If not registered: 7-10 daysEnsure active SAM.gov registration. This is required before applying for VOSB certification.
Gather Veteran Documentation
1-2 weeksObtain DD-214 or other documentation proving veteran status for all veteran owners.
Apply Through Certify.SBA.gov
1-2 weeksComplete the VOSB certification application with ownership and control documentation.
SBA Review
30-60 daysSBA reviews application and verifies veteran status, ownership, and control.
Certification Decision
1-30 daysSBA issues certification decision. Annual recertification required.
Required Documents
Documentation needed for your VOSB application
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about VOSB certification
What is VOSB certification?
VOSB (Veteran-Owned Small Business) certification verifies that a small business is at least 51% owned and controlled by veterans. It provides verified veteran status for federal contracting and is a prerequisite for SDVOSB certification.
Is there a federal set-aside for VOSBs?
There is no federal contracting percentage goal specifically for VOSBs. However, SDVOSB (Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business) has a 3% federal contracting goal. VOSB certification validates veteran ownership status.
What is the difference between VOSB and SDVOSB?
VOSB requires veteran ownership and control. SDVOSB requires the same plus that the veteran owner(s) have a service-connected disability rating from the VA. SDVOSB has access to federal set-aside contracts; VOSB does not.
What documentation proves veteran status?
DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) is the primary document. Veterans who lost their DD-214 can request a replacement through the National Personnel Records Center or eVetRecs.
Can Reserve or National Guard members qualify?
Reserve and National Guard members who were called to active duty and served qualify as veterans. Those who only served inactive duty training typically do not qualify unless they have a service-connected disability.
How long is VOSB certification valid?
VOSB certification requires annual recertification through the SBA. You must confirm continued eligibility each year to maintain certified status.
Related Certifications
Other certifications that may benefit your business
Ready to Get Your VOSB Certification?
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