Cornerstone guide
SDVOSB certification guide 2026
Everything a veteran founder needs to know about SBA VetCert, the current SDVOSB certification program, federal contracting set-asides, and the NDAA changes that reshaped self-certification.
BLUF
- SBA VetCert is the only path. Self-certification for subcontracting and goaling ended December 22, 2024 under NDAA FY2024.
- Federal goal: at least 5 percent of all federal prime contracting dollars to SDVOSBs annually.
- VA sets aside at least 7 percent of its contracts specifically for certified VOSBs and SDVOSBs.
- Apply at MySBA Certifications. No cost. SBA does not charge fees or ask for capability statements.
Eligibility (from SBA)
- Identified by the VA as a veteran or service-disabled veteran (SDVOSB requires VA rating).
- Small business per SBA size standards for at least one NAICS code in your SAM profile.
- At least 51 percent owned and controlled by one or more veterans (SDVOSB: veterans rated as service-disabled).
- For permanently and totally disabled vets who cannot manage daily operations, a spouse or appointed permanent caregiver can manage.
The NDAA timeline
- NDAA 2021: Transferred certification function from VA (CVE) to SBA. Effective January 1, 2023.
- November 29, 2022: Final rule published in the Federal Register.
- NDAA FY2024: All veteran firms must be SBA-certified for subcontracting and goaling purposes before December 22, 2024.
- December 22, 2024: Self-certification grace period ended. Firms that applied before this date retain eligibility during SBA review.
- Ongoing: VA sole-source and set-aside opportunities require SBA certification. No self-cert path for VA opportunities.
"Certify.us" is not affiliated with SBA. SBA will only email from @sba.gov addresses. The only legitimate SBA phone for Certifications is 1-866-SBA-HELP. Capability statements are not required. There is no cost to apply.
How to apply
- Register in SAM.gov. You need an active SAM profile.
- Confirm VA identifies you as a veteran or service-disabled veteran.
- Confirm you meet SBA size standards for at least one NAICS in your SAM profile.
- Go to MySBA Certifications and apply.
- Await SBA determination. Firms that applied before Dec 22, 2024 retain eligibility during review.
What certification gets you
- SDVOSB set-asides and sole-source contracts across the federal government.
- VOSB set-asides at the VA under the Vets First program.
- Eligibility to purchase surplus federal personal property through GSA/state SASP programs.
- Automatic small-business set-aside eligibility on federal purchases $10,000 - $250,000.
Primary sources
- SBA VetCert Portal: veterans.certify.sba.gov
- SBA Veteran Contracting Assistance Programs: sba.gov/sdvosb
- Federal Register final rule: FR 2022-25508
- MySBA Certifications portal: certifications.sba.gov
Related programs in the library
Certifications, procurement training, and federal contracting programs that pair with SDVOSB.
U.S. Small Business Administration
Socially and economically disadvantaged small business owners; 9-year program providing mentorship and access to sole-source contracts.
U.S. Small Business Administration
Business located in a HUBZone (historically underutilized) area with 35%+ HUBZone employees.
SBA Office of Veterans Business Development
Service-disabled veteran (10%+ VA rating) with 51%+ ownership and control of the business. Self-certification for federal subcontracting and goaling ended December 22, 2024 (NDAA FY2024). SBA VetCert is now the only path.
SBA Office of Veterans Business Development
Veteran-owned (51%+) and controlled small business; no service-disability requirement.
NaVOBA
Vet-owned businesses seeking corporate supplier diversity certification.
U.S. General Services Administration
Any business seeking federal contracts.
Monday Deadlines
Weekly digest of certifications, set-aside opportunities, and federal contract windows. Every Monday at 6am ET. Free.