Veteran entrepreneurs have a unique advantage in federal contracting—but too few use it strategically.
In this post, we’ll break down exactly how to get certified, find opportunities, and position your Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) to win consistently in 2026 and beyond.
Watch the full video: Winning Government Contracts as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business
1. Why Veteran Status Is a Strategic Advantage
The U.S. government reserves 5% of all federal contracting dollars for SDVOSBs—roughly $25 billion per year. That’s in addition to subcontracting incentives for large primes that must include veteran-owned partners in their bids.
For veterans, this means fewer competitors, potential for sole-source awards, and increased credibility with contracting officers who value discipline, reliability, and mission alignment.
Your service isn’t just honorable—it’s a business differentiator.
2. Getting Certified Through SBA VetCert
Since early 2023, the Small Business Administration (SBA) has taken over certification from the VA.
To qualify, you must:
- Own 51% or more of the company.
- Control day-to-day and long-term operations.
- Meet SBA small business size standards.
- Provide VA disability documentation.
Apply through the VetCert Portal (certifications.sba.gov). Expect a review period of weeks to months, and ensure your business name, ownership details, and tax documents are consistent across all records to avoid delays.
Once approved, renew every three years and keep documentation ready for verification.
3. Finding the Right Contract Opportunities
Your SAM.gov profile is your federal résumé. Keep it updated with:
- Current NAICS codes
- Accurate keywords and capability statements
- Verified SDVOSB status and past performance
Use SAM.gov filters to find SDVOSB set-asides and Sources Sought notice. Those early signals can help you influence whether a contract becomes veteran-exclusive.
And don’t stop at online searches:
- Attend VA industry days and veteran small business events.
- Connect with Apex Accelerators and Veteran Business Outreach Centers.
- Engage with VA’s National Veteran Small Business Engagement (NVSBE) to build relationships and visibility.
4. Avoid These Common Pitfalls
Veteran-owned businesses face the same challenges as everyone else—plus a few extra paperwork traps. The most common reasons SDVOSBs lose bids are:
- Non-compliance: Missing forms, font errors, or late submissions.
- Generic proposals: Copy-pasting old content without agency insight.
- Weak past performance: Failing to highlight teaming partners or subcontractors.
- Unrealistic pricing: Overbidding or underbidding both signal risk.
Pro Tip: Use a compliance matrix for every RFP and review it multiple times before submission.
5. Teaming: The Fast Track to Bigger Wins
Teaming helps you “fight above your weight class.” Partner with experienced primes to build credibility and past performance faster.
Explore:
- Mentor-Protégé programs (SBA All Small)
- Joint Ventures with larger firms
- Subcontracting with primes who must meet SDVOSB goals
These partnerships open access to million-dollar contracts while maintaining your small business status.
6. How SAS-GPS Supports Veteran Entrepreneurs
At SAS-GPS, we guide veteran-owned businesses from certification to execution:
- Reviewing RFPs and compliance
- Building teaming strategies
- Managing proposals that align with federal standards
We don’t charge veterans for services they can access free through the SBA or Apex Accelerators—but when you’re ready for advanced proposal management and bid strategy, we’re here to help you scale.
We’ve helped clients secure over $45 billion in federal awards—and we’re proud to stand beside veteran entrepreneurs leading the next generation of contracting success.
Learn more at sas-gps.com
