What Is VOSB Certification?
A VOSB (Veteran-Owned Small Business) is a small business majority-owned and controlled by one or more veterans. VOSB certification provides access to federal set-aside contracts — primarily at the Department of Veterans Affairs — and positions your business for the growing veteran-focused federal marketplace.
VOSB vs SDVOSB
Both certifications are for veteran-owned businesses, but with a key difference:
- VOSB — Any veteran, no disability requirement. Access to VA VOSB set-asides.
- SDVOSB — Veterans with a VA or DoD-rated service-connected disability. Access to SDVOSB + VOSB set-asides — broader opportunity access.
If you qualify for SDVOSB, pursue that certification instead — it provides all VOSB benefits plus additional sole-source and set-aside access.
VOSB Eligibility Requirements
- Small business under applicable NAICS size standard
- 51%+ unconditionally owned by one or more veterans
- Management and daily operations controlled by veteran(s)
- Veterans must have served in the US military and received an honorable or general discharge
- US citizen
How to Apply for VOSB
- Confirm veteran status — DD-214 required
- Ensure SAM.gov registration is active
- Apply at certify.sba.gov
- Upload DD-214, business ownership documents, operating agreement
- SBA review — typically 30-60 days
- Annual recertification
VOSB Contracts at the VA
The VA Veterans First Contracting Program mandates that VA contracting officers consider VOSB set-asides before opening competition. This creates a significant advantage for veteran-owned businesses pursuing VA healthcare, IT, construction, and professional services contracts.
How to Maximize VOSB Status
- Register VOSB status in SAM.gov and update DSBS profile
- Focus on VA as a primary target agency
- Attend VA industry days and matchmaking events
- Connect with VA Vendor Information Pages (VIP) database
- Consider upgrading to SDVOSB if you have a service-connected disability rating
GovCon Media Mosiac provides VOSB and SDVOSB certification consulting and VA-focused business development support. Book a free consultation to evaluate your veteran contracting pathway.