Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business(SDVOSB)
A small business at least 51% owned and controlled by one or more veterans with a service-connected disability, eligible for federal set-aside contracts.
Overview
The Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) program provides federal contracting preferences to small businesses owned by veterans with service-connected disabilities. The federal government has a statutory goal of awarding at least 3% of all contracting dollars to SDVOSBs, creating a substantial pool of set-aside and sole-source opportunities.
Why It Matters in GovCon
SDVOSB certification is a significant competitive advantage across all federal agencies, and it is particularly valuable at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), which has additional set-aside and sole-source authority under the Veterans First Contracting Program. SDVOSB status can be combined with other certifications for even more targeted opportunities.
Key Details
- Eligibility: At least 51% owned and controlled by one or more service-disabled veterans. The disability must be service-connected as determined by the VA or DoD.
- Certification: Must be certified by SBA through the Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert) program.
- Sole-Source: Agencies can award sole-source contracts up to $4.5 million for services and $7 million for manufacturing.
- VA Veterans First: The VA gives priority to SDVOSBs and VOSBs before other small business categories.
- 3% Goal: The government-wide goal is 3% of prime contracting dollars to SDVOSBs.
How GovCon Data Can Help
GovCon Data lets you filter opportunities by SDVOSB set-aside across all federal agencies and tracks VA-specific Veterans First opportunities in a dedicated view.
Related Terms
- Small Business Administration (SBA)
- Set-Aside
- 8(a) Business Development Program
- HUBZone
- Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB)
More Programs Terms
An SBA program that helps small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals compete for federal contracts.
A subcategory of WOSB for women-owned small businesses where the owners are also economically disadvantaged, eligible for additional sole-source contracts.
An SBA program that gives preferential access to federal contracts for small businesses located in economically distressed areas.
A program pairing large experienced contractors with small businesses to help them build capabilities through joint ventures, subcontracting, and technical assistance.
A small business at least 51% owned and controlled by one or more women, eligible for federal set-aside contracts in underrepresented industries.
A government-to-government program where the U.S. sells defense articles and services to allied nations.
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