VOSB Certification Explained

VOSB Certification Benefits and Perks

The U.S. government has a mandate to award a certain percentage of contracts to small businesses, including those owned by veterans. It makes your business eligible for these set-aside contracts, which are a large and reliable source of revenue when your company is certified as a VOSB.

This certification can help increase your company’s profile among government agencies, other businesses, and contractors that are looking for veteran-owned suppliers. It also provides you with a distinct identity that can be used for networking and marketing.

Many large companies seek to partner with veteran-owned businesses in order to meet diversity and inclusion goals or fulfill specific contract requirements. This certification gives you a competitive edge in both the public and private sectors.

These are specialized resources, training programs, funding, and mentorship from organizations like the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) or the Veteran Business Outreach Center (VBOC) that are available to VOSBs in order to help your business grow.

This is because you become part of the VOSB community and this opens up access to other veterans and business owners, which can lead to collaboration, partnerships, and mutual support.

In addition to subcontracts, a VOSB can compete for prime contracts, which generally offer larger, longer-term opportunities. The government often prioritizes VOSBs in certain industries for prime contracting work.

The VOSB designation also enhances your company’s credibility as it shows your dedication to your service and to your community. It can also lead to trust with clients and partners especially those who have a preference for doing business with veteran owned businesses.

VOSB Certification Eligibility Criteria

Ownership and Control

  • The business has to be at least 51% owned and controlled by one or more veterans.
  • If the veteran is a service disabled veteran, the business must be 51% owned by the service disabled veteran and controlled by him/her as well.
  • The veteran(s) must control the day to day management, decision making and operations of the business.

Veteran Status
Owner(s) must be a veteran who has served in the U.S. Armed Forces and was discharged with honorable discharge or general discharge under honorable conditions. A service disabled veteran is someone who has a disability rating from the VA as a result of their military service.

Size Standards
The business must meet the criteria for a small business as defined by the Small Business Administration (SBA) size standards. These standards are usually industry based and are determined by annual revenue or number of employees.

U.S. Based
The business has to be based in the United States, meaning that its primary place of business and operations must be in the U.S.

Active and In Business
The business has to be operating. It can not be a “shell” or dormant business that was formed with the intention of certification.

No Unresolved Issues
The business and its owners must not have any outstanding issues with the government such as tax or other debts.


Contact FEDCON today to get assistance with contracting or certification.

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