In the evolving world of supplier diversity, one organization has redefined what it means to be certified: the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC). As the gold standard for third-party certification of veteran and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses (VOBs/SDVOBs), NVBDC is more than a certifier—it’s a catalyst for opportunity.
Delivering Results
NVBDC is the only veteran certification body recognized by the Billion Dollar Roundtable (BDR)—a mark of integrity, impact and influence. In 2023 alone, NVBDC-certified businesses secured more than $4.3 billion in contracts and expenditures, directly connecting veteran entrepreneurs with major supply chains.
These businesses span every industry and background. To ensure equity, NVBDC offers subsidized certification fees, removing financial barriers for qualified veteran-owned businesses.
According to BDR’s 2023 Economic Impact Report, NVBDC’s corporate members—who make up 30% of BDR companies—contributed to a $6.7 billion economic impact through their work with certified VOBs. Certification isn’t just a credential—it’s a growth strategy.
Mission-Driven Leadership
At NVBDC’s helm is Keith King, a Vietnam veteran with over 40 years in advertising, public policy and corporate strategy. His leadership helped enact Michigan legislation that awarded more than $90 million in state contracts to SDVOBs in 2021, reinforcing his long-standing commitment to veteran entrepreneurship.
President Brigadier General (Ret.) Dick Miller brings 33 years of military leadership and an enduring dedication to veterans’ health and economic opportunity. From PTSD treatment initiatives to enabling thousands of veterans to access corporate contracts, General Miller exemplifies NVBDC’s service-driven mission.
Together with a board of supplier diversity and procurement professionals, NVBDC’s leadership is building tangible pathways to success for veteran businesses.
From Certification to Contracting
Certification is just the beginning. NVBDC provides direct, hands-on support to help veterans turn their certification into real contracts. Staff work one-on-one with veteran business owners to navigate procurement requirements, respond to RFPs and develop relationships with corporate buyers.
And NVBDC’s reach extends well beyond U.S. borders.
In a landmark partnership, NVBDC joined forces with the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration (ITA) to help certified VOBs access international markets. Through the U.S. Commercial Service, veteran-owned businesses gain trade education, export support and strategic introductions.
Working with the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM), NVBDC also connects businesses to trade finance tools, reducing risk and making global expansion more attainable.
As part of the federal VetsGoGlobal initiative, NVBDC plays a critical role in preparing veteran-owned businesses for export success—offering market intelligence, global matchmaking and export-readiness training. With NVBDC’s certification, veterans gain not only domestic access but also a launchpad to global commerce.
Digital Innovation
To enhance impact, NVBDC is rolling out major upgrades to its Veteran-Owned Certification System (VOCS). These improvements help veterans stand out in a competitive supplier diversity marketplace.
Key features include:
- Success Story Integration: Businesses can highlight wins, innovations and community impact.
- Introductory Video Uploads: Putting a face behind the business fosters trust and connection with buyers.
- Expanded Search & Filtering: Corporate members can more easily find certified businesses by region, industry and other key traits.
- Profile Optimization: NVBDC provides guidance to help veterans build compelling digital profiles that attract attention and drive engagement.
These tools transform certification into market visibility, allowing more veterans to be discovered and awarded contracts.
Growing the MVO Task Force
NVBDC also leads the Military & Veteran Organization (MVO) Task Force, now 80 members strong. This national coalition unites veteran-serving nonprofits, government agencies and corporate partners to promote NVBDC certification, share resources and support veteran entrepreneurship.
As NVBDC strengthens its global partnerships, the Task Force continues to grow in reach and influence—amplifying the message that certified veteran-owned businesses are essential to the economy.
What’s Ahead for 2025
NVBDC’s 2025 roadmap includes bold initiatives:
- International Expansion: Ongoing export education and support via ITA, EXIM and VetsGoGlobal.
- Training & Education: Expert-led sessions to help certified businesses maximize their potential.
- Digital Transformation: Continued improvements to the VOCS platform.
- Scholarship Growth: Expansion of the JROTC Scholarship Program for future leaders.
- National Conference: The 2025 Veteran Business Matchmaking Event takes place Oct. 29-30 in Spartanburg, South Carolina, featuring “Vets Night Out” and a live Veteran Marketplace.
A Veteran-Owned Future
From certification and contracting to training, advocacy and now international expansion, NVBDC is helping veterans turn service into scalable success. For business owners ready to grow, connect and compete—NVBDC certification is more than a credential. It’s a gateway to the future.
Learn more or start your certification journey at NVBDC.ORG.
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