What Is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)?
A service-disabled veteran-owned small business (SDVOSB) is a powerful force in federal contracting. Learn what it means, how to qualify, and how to partner with one to win more bids.
A Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) is a federally recognized small business that is at least 51% owned and controlled by a veteran with a service-connected disability. These businesses are eligible for set-aside and sole-source federal contracts, playing a critical role in supporting veteran entrepreneurship in the public sector.
The U.S. government is committed to awarding at least 3% of all federal contract dollars to SDVOSBs every year.
SDVOSB Certification Requirements
To qualify as an SDVOSB, a company must:
Be a small business under applicable NAICS size standards
Be at least 51% owned and operated by one or more service-disabled veterans
Have day-to-day operations managed by a service-disabled veteran
Be certified through SBA’s Veteran Small Business Certification Program (VetCert)
👉 Apply here: veterans.certify.sba.gov
Once approved, SDVOSBs are listed in the Dynamic Small Business Search (DSBS) and are eligible for participation in SDVOSB set-aside and sole-source contracts.
Why Work with an SDVOSB?
There are several strategic reasons agencies and prime contractors seek out SDVOSBs:
Competitive Advantage
SDVOSB set-asides reduce competition and increase the chance of an award for qualified vendors.
Teaming Value
Primes benefit from teaming with SDVOSBs to meet small business subcontracting goals and qualify for SDVOSB points in proposal evaluations.
Mission Alignment
Supporting SDVOSBs honors the federal government’s commitment to veteran entrepreneurship and the inclusion of service-connected veterans.
SSRJ Consulting: A Certified SDVOSB Proposal Partner
SSRJ Consulting is a certified service-disabled veteran-owned small business (SDVOSB) that assists other federal contractors in achieving success.
Our core service is proposal writing for federal, state, municipal, and DOD clients, serving a range of clients from small businesses to large primes across various sectors, including defense, cybersecurity, logistics, and professional services.
We offer:
Full-service RFP/RFQ response development
Teaming support and good-faith effort documentation
Insight into agency preferences and evaluation scoring
SDVOSB participation on prime-led bids
Whether you’re seeking an SDVOSB subcontractor or need expert proposal support, we bring veteran insight and award-winning writing to every engagement.
Partner With a Proven SDVOSB
📞 Seeking an experienced and responsive SDVOSB?
Need help writing or responding to a federal proposal?
Connect with SSRJ Consulting—your trusted SDVOSB partner in government contracting success.
What Is an SDVOSB?
An SDVOSB certification is more than a label—it’s a strategic advantage in the federal marketplace. Here's what it means and how it can help your agency or business win.
SDVOSB stands for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business—a federal designation for small businesses that are at least 51% owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans.
This certification allows eligible companies to compete for set-aside and sole-source contracts under federal small business programs. It’s a core part of the government’s effort to recognize and reward veterans through economic opportunity.
SDVOSB Certification Requirements
To qualify as an SDVOSB, a business must meet these basic criteria:
Be a small business under the SBA size standards
Be 51% owned and controlled by one or more service-disabled veterans
Have day-to-day operations and long-term decision-making managed by a service-disabled veteran
Be verified through SBA’s Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert) portal
👉 Learn more or apply at: veterans.certify.sba.gov
Why SDVOSB Status Matters in Federal Contracting
The U.S. government has set a goal of awarding 3% of all federal contracting dollars to SDVOSBs. Many agencies—including the VA, DoD, DHS, and GSA—actively seek SDVOSB participation across procurement programs.
Benefits include:
Set-aside contracts reserved exclusively for SDVOSBs
Sole-source awards for urgent or unique procurements
Competitive advantage on prime contracts
High demand for SDVOSB teaming partners and subcontractors
SSRJ Consulting: Your SDVOSB Proposal Partner
SSRJ Consulting is a verified SDVOSB focused on federal proposal development. We help government contractors:
Develop winning proposals for RFPs, RFQs, and IDIQs
Satisfy SDVOSB participation goals as a subcontractor or teaming partner
Write compliance-driven responses tailored to each agency's needs
Navigate government sales strategy with veteran insight and experience
Whether you're responding to a VA set-aside or looking for an SDVOSB teammate to strengthen your bid, we’re ready to support you.
Work With an SDVOSB That Knows How to Win
Contact SSRJ Consulting to explore subcontracting, teaming, or full-service proposal writing. As a federal SDVOSB, we understand both sides of the contract—what agencies expect, and how to deliver it.
SDVOSB Certification Guide | Benefits & Success Tips for Veteran-Owned Businesses
SDVOSB certification offers veteran-owned small businesses access to set-aside contracts, networking opportunities, and a competitive edge in federal procurement. This guide explains how to qualify, apply, and fully leverage the benefits of certification to grow your government contracting business.
Understanding SDVOSB Certification and Its Benefits
Introduction
The Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification is a valuable designation that offers unique advantages in the federal contracting marketplace. This certification can be a powerful growth tool for businesses owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans—unlocking access to exclusive opportunities, resources, and partnerships. This guide overviews the SDVOSB certification process, its key benefits, and how to leverage it for contracting success.
What Is SDVOSB Certification?
SDVOSB certification is granted to small businesses that are majority-owned and operated by U.S. service-disabled veterans. Managed by the Small Business Administration (SBA), the certification enables qualifying businesses to compete for set-aside and sole-source contracts from federal agencies that prioritize veteran participation.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for SDVOSB certification, a business must meet the following criteria:
At least 51% owned and controlled by one or more service-disabled veterans
A service-disabled veteran must manage day-to-day operations and long-term decisions
The veteran must have a verified service-connected disability rating from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
How to Obtain SDVOSB Certification
The certification process involves submitting an application through the Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert) program at the SBA. Applicants must provide documentation proving veteran status, ownership structure, control, and business operations. A successful application results in a three-year certification, subject to renewal and compliance audits.
Key Benefits of SDVOSB Certification
1. Access to Set-Aside and Sole-Source Contracts
Federal agencies are mandated to reserve a portion of their procurement budgets for SDVOSBs, creating dedicated pathways for contract awards.
2. Competitive Edge in Procurement
SDVOSB status can enhance proposal competitiveness and demonstrate a commitment to public service values.
3. Networking & Business Development Opportunities
Certification opens doors to matchmaking events, procurement fairs, and teaming opportunities with prime contractors seeking SDVOSB partners.
4. Access to Government Resources
Certified SDVOSBs can tap into training, counseling, and technical assistance offered by SBA and PTAC offices nationwide.
Leveraging Your SDVOSB Status
Certification alone isn’t enough—businesses must actively market their SDVOSB status. Highlight it in:
Proposal narratives and capability statements
Company website and marketing collateral
Registrations on SAM.gov and other procurement platforms
Engage with the agencies’ Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) to increase visibility and partnership potential.
Conclusion
SDVOSB certification is a strategic asset for service-disabled veteran entrepreneurs entering the government market. By understanding the requirements and benefits, and by actively promoting your certification, your business can gain a significant advantage in the competitive world of federal contracting.
Understanding SDVOSB Certification and Its Benefits in Government Contracting
SDVOSB certification offers a competitive edge in federal contracting for service-disabled veteran-owned businesses. This in-depth guide covers how to qualify, apply, and use the certification to unlock exclusive opportunities and grow in the government marketplace.
Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification offers significant advantages in government contracting. This article provides a comprehensive overview of SDVOSB certification, its benefits, and how it can help your business succeed in the competitive federal marketplace.
What is SDVOSB Certification? SDVOSB certification is given to small businesses owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans. This certification provides SDVOSB firms access to specific government contracting opportunities.
Eligibility Requirements To qualify for SDVOSB certification, your business must meet specific criteria, including veteran ownership and control and a valid service-connected disability rating from the VA.
How to Obtain SDVOSB Certification The certification process involves applying for the VA or SBA and supporting documentation. Understanding the requirements and gathering the necessary paperwork is key to a successful application.
Understanding SDVOSB Certification and Its Benefits
Benefits of SDVOSB Certification
Access to Set-Aside Contracts: Government agencies must allocate a certain percentage of contracts to SDVOSB firms, increasing your chances of winning contracts.
Competitive Advantage: SDVOSB certification can differentiate your business from competitors and demonstrate your commitment to public service.
Networking Opportunities: Certified SDVOSBs can join exclusive networks and attend events that connect them with government buyers and prime contractors.
Support and Resources: SDVOSBs can access various support programs and resources to help them succeed in government contracting.
Leveraging Your Certification Once certified, it’s essential to market your SDVOSB status actively. Highlight it in your proposals, website, and marketing materials to attract government buyers and partners.
Conclusion: SDVOSB certification is a powerful tool for service-disabled veteran-owned businesses looking to expand into government contracting. Understanding the benefits and leveraging your certification effectively can unlock new opportunities and drive your business growth.