Small Business Certifications

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The U.S. government is the world’s largest customer. It buys all types of products and services, and is required by law to provide opportunities for small businesses.

The government works to make sure small businesses get at least 23% of all federal contracting dollars.

Additionally,

5% to Women-owned small businesses
5% to 8(a) Business Development program
3% to Service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses
3% to HUBZone program participants

Being certified as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB), and/or 8(a) company, will help the business tremendously. The certified companies and entrepreneurs will have ample opportunities for new contracts, training, education programs, and networking opportunities.

The 8(a) Business Development Program

What is an 8(a) Business Development Program?

The 8(a) Business Development Program is a business assistance program for small disadvantaged businesses. The 8(a) Program offers a broad scope of assistance to firms that are owned and controlled at least 51% by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. The program helps thousands of aspiring entrepreneurs to gain a foothold in government contracting.

Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) Certification

What is VOSB?

Veteran-owned small business (VOSB) is a small business that is 51% unconditionally owned and controlled by a veteran.

Services-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) Certification

What is SDVOSB?

Service-disabled-veteran-owned small business (SDVOSB) is a small business that is 51% unconditionally owned and controlled by a service-disabled veteran.

Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Certification

To qualify as an MBE with the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) or a local MBE program, a business must meet the following criteria:

For-profit business located in the United States
51% owned, operated, capitalized, and controlled by a member(s) of a presumed group (e.g., Black American, Hispanic, Native American, Asian Pacific, Subcontinent Asian)
The top executive officer responsible for managing daily operations with technical expertise in the firm’s primary business expertise
U.S. Citizenship is generally required, though legal residents (green cards) are accepted by most programs administered by city, county, or state. Click here for details.

These certifications open doors to various opportunities and resources, empowering small businesses to thrive in government contracting and beyond.