Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB)
Set-aside primarily used for VA contracts under the VA's 'Vets First' contracting program.
Authority: 38 USC 8127 (VA) / 13 CFR 128
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Eligibility checklist
- Small business by SBA size standard for primary NAICS
- At least 51% owned and controlled by one or more veterans
- Veteran controls day-to-day management and long-term decisions
- Honorable discharge from U.S. military service
- Certified by SBA (VetCert)
How to get certified
- Confirm honorable discharge. DD-214 with discharge characterization.
- Apply via VetCert. Submit ownership, control, and veteran-status documentation.
- Pursue VA contracts first. VA's Forecast of Contracting Opportunities is the primary place to look.
Recommended NAICS
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FAQ
Where can I use a VOSB set-aside?
Primarily VA contracts under the 'Vets First' program. Other agencies generally use SDVOSB instead. VOSB certification still helps with non-set-aside primes who want veteran-owned subcontractors.
How does VOSB differ from SDVOSB?
VOSB requires veteran ownership; SDVOSB requires service-disabled veteran ownership. SDVOSB has broader government-wide set-aside use; VOSB is mostly VA.