Hey there, veteran entrepreneurs!
So, you’ve served your country, started your own business (no small feat!), and now you’re wondering: How can I get officially certified as a veteran-owned or disabled veteran-owned business? Whether you’re aiming to land government contracts, access special programs, or just want to make your status official, you’re in the right place.
Let’s break it down—plain and simple—so you can get certified without pulling your hair out.
First Things First: What Does Certification Even Do?
Being certified as a Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) or Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) opens doors. We’re talking:
Access to set-aside government contracts
Increased visibility on federal and corporate supplier lists
Networking opportunities
Resources and mentorship from veteran-focused business programs
If your business meets the requirements, getting certified can give you a serious edge.
Step 1: Make Sure You Qualify
To qualify for VOSB or SDVOSB certification, your business must be:
✅ At least 51% owned and controlled by a veteran or service-disabled veteran
✅ A small business according to SBA size standards
✅ Managed on a day-to-day basis by a veteran or service-disabled veteran
For SDVOSBs, your service-connected disability must be verified by the VA.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
Like any government process, there’s paperwork (surprise!). Here’s what you’ll generally need:
Proof of veteran status (DD-214)
VA disability letter (for SDVOSB certification)
Business documents (operating agreement, bylaws, business license, etc.)
Tax returns and financial statements
Ownership and control documentation
Tip: Get a folder (digital or physical) and organize everything in advance. Future-you will thank you.
Step 3: Apply for Certification
You’ve got two main pathways:
🟢 Through the SBA (Small Business Administration)
As of 2023, SBA officially took over certification from the VA. You’ll use their Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert) program.
Apply here: https://veterans.certify.sba.gov
It’s all online and free. (Yup, no application fee.)
🟠 Through Third-Party Certifiers (for private-sector opportunities)
If you’re targeting private corporations (like Fortune 500 supplier diversity programs), consider getting certified through the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC) or Disability:IN (for SDV-owned businesses).
These certifications might have a fee, but they’re well respected in the private sector.
Step 4: Be Patient (But Stay on Top of It)
Government processing times can be… well, slow. Expect it to take several weeks, sometimes a couple of months. You can log into your SBA account to track the status.
Respond quickly if they request additional info—it helps speed things up.
Step 5: Market Your Certification
Congrats! You’re certified. Now what?
Add it to your website and marketing materials
Register on the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) if you haven’t already
Join veteran business directories and supplier databases
Look into local procurement and veteran biz networking events
Getting certified as a veteran-owned or service-disabled veteran-owned business isn’t always fast or easy—but it’s worth it. Think of it as investing in your business’s future. You’ve already shown you have the grit and discipline it takes to lead. This is just one more tool in your arsenal.
So take a deep breath, follow the steps, and don’t hesitate to ask for help along the way (SBA has resources, and so do veterans’ organizations).
You’ve got this. 🇺🇸
Read more articles for the Veteran Community here.
