What Is an SDVOSB?
An SDVOSB (service-disabled veteran-owned small business) is a small business at least 51% owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans.
SDVOSB (service-disabled veteran-owned small business) in plain English
Since January 1, 2024, SDVOSB set-asides and sole-source awards require SBA certification through VetCert. It's free, you apply through MySBA Certifications, and you recertify every three years.
The veteran's service-connected disability is determined by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), not SBA.
SDVOSBs can win set-asides at any agency and sole-source awards up to $8.5 million for manufacturing and $5 million for other work. Veteran-owned (VOSB) set-asides, by contrast, are only at the VA.
Related terms
- Set-aside: A set-aside is a contract reserved for small businesses, or for one type of small business such as HUBZone or women-owned firms. Others can't bid.
- Sole-source contract: A sole-source contract is awarded to one company without competition, which is allowed only in specific cases.
- 8(a) program: The 8(a) program is SBA's nine-year business development program for small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged U.S. citizens.
- HUBZone: A HUBZone is a Historically Underutilized Business Zone. SBA's HUBZone program helps small businesses based in these areas win federal contracts.
- WOSB (women-owned small business): A WOSB is a small business at least 51% owned and controlled by women who are U.S. citizens, with women managing daily operations.
Put it to work
Looking for another term? Browse the full glossary or the government contracting glossary guide.