Federal program for service-disabled veterans. Provides federal contract set-asides and sole-source authority. Fastest-growing federal contracting category with strong veteran focus.
Federal Spending
$25B+ annually in SDVOSB contracts
3% federal contracting goal
Application Cost
$0 through SBA VetCert
Duration
Maintain current SBA VetCert status and continuing eligibility
Eligibility Requirements
Ownership
At least 51% owned and controlled by service-disabled veteran (U.S. citizen)
Net Worth / Income
No net worth or income limitations
Experience
Veteran must be involved in daily management and decisions
Other Requirements
- Service-connected disability rating from VA (any percentage, even 0% if service-related)
- Proof of VA disability rating (VA Letter of Eligibility)
- No other firm can control the business
- Small business size standards must be met for your NAICS
Certification Benefits
Federal SDVOSB set-asides and sole-source opportunities when certified and eligible
Sole-source contracting (government can award without competition up to $6.5M)
Fast-track to awards due to government veteran support policy
Veteran employment incentives
Access to VA loans and SBA support programs
Priority in federal veteran contracting initiatives
No limit on contract size for SDVOSB compete
Can hold SDVOSB + 8(a) certification simultaneously
Application Process & Timeline
Verify VA Disability Rating
Obtain VA Letter of Eligibility showing service-connected disability rating. Go to VA.gov, create eBenefits account, download rating letter.
⏱️ 1-2 weeks (online request)
Register in SAM.gov
Create or update your SAM.gov registration and keep the NAICS representations consistent with the solicitation.
⏱️ 1-2 weeks
Apply for SBA VetCert
Submit ownership, control, and veteran documentation through SBA VetCert. Self-certification is not a substitute for certification for SDVOSB set-asides.
⏱️ Varies by application and SBA review
Bid on SDVOSB Set-Asides
Start bidding on SDVOSB-designated contracts. VA is largest buyer of SDVOSB contracts.
⏱️ After certification is active
Top Procuring Agencies
VA
DoD
GSA
DHS
Treasury
Common Contracts
Healthcare and medical services (VA focus)
IT services and modernization
Logistics and supply chain
Facilities and maintenance
Professional and consulting services
Contractor Competitive Advantage
SBA VetCert certification can unlock SDVOSB set-asides and sole-source opportunities; eligibility and NAICS size status must be maintained.
Next Steps:
- Verify you meet eligibility requirements
- Gather required documentation (financial statements, ownership proof, etc.)
- Apply through official program channel (SAM.gov / SBA)
- Once certified, register in SAM.gov and start bidding
- Track your set-aside contract wins and renewal deadlines
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SDVOSB (Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)) certification?
+
Federal program for service-disabled veterans. Provides federal contract set-asides and sole-source authority. Fastest-growing federal contracting category with strong veteran focus.
What are the eligibility requirements for SDVOSB?
+
To be eligible for SDVOSB, a firm must meet requirements regarding: (1) Ownership: At least 51% owned and controlled by service-disabled veteran (U.S. citizen), (2) Financials: No net worth or income limitations, and (3) Experience: Veteran must be involved in daily management and decisions.
What is the federal spending volume for SDVOSB contracts?
+
Federal agencies spend approximately $25B+ annually in SDVOSB contracts annually through SDVOSB set-aside and sole-source contracts. This makes it one of the most valuable certifications for eligible firms seeking government work.
How long does it take to get SDVOSB certified?
+
Processing times vary. SBA certifications like 8(a) and WOSB through certify.SBA.gov typically take 90 days, though complex applications can take 6 or more months. SDVOSB self-certification is immediate but attestation-based, while VA CVE verification takes 30-60 days. Begin the process 6 or more months before you plan to pursue your first set-aside.
Can I hold multiple federal certifications including SDVOSB?
+
Yes. Many firms hold multiple certifications simultaneously. A woman-owned, service-disabled veteran-owned small business in a HUBZone can hold WOSB, SDVOSB, and HUBZone certifications concurrently. Each certification opens different set-aside pools. The only restriction is that some SBA programs require the firm remain within size standards while certified.
What are the most common mistakes in the SDVOSB application?
+
Common disqualifying mistakes include: ownership documentation that does not clearly show the required ownership percentage; operating agreements that give non-qualifying members too much control; missing or outdated financial statements; and past performance claimed that predates the certification period. Work with a PTAC counselor before submitting because rejections reset your processing clock.