Are you a veteran looking to leverage your service-disabled status to access federal contracting opportunities? The Small Business Administration’s Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) program could be your pathway to success. This program aims to provide assistance to veterans who have sustained service-related disabilities while also promoting their participation in government contracting. So, how can your company qualify for this program? Let’s walk through the process:

1. Verify Your Eligibility:

• Veteran Status: Ensure you are a veteran of the U.S. armed forces, with an honorable discharge.
• Service-Connected Disability: Have a service-connected disability rated by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
• Ownership & Control: At least 51% of your business must be owned and controlled by one or more service-disabled veterans.

2. Gather Required Documentation:

• DD Form 214: Provide a copy of your DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, to verify your veteran status.
• VA Disability Rating: Obtain documentation from the VA confirming your service-connected disability rating.
• Ownership Evidence: Prepare documentation demonstrating your ownership and control of the business, such as stock certificates, operating agreements, or meeting minutes.

3. Register with SAM:

• System for Award Management (SAM): Register your business in SAM (https://sam.gov/content/home ) to be eligible for federal contracting opportunities. Ensure your SAM profile is up to date and accurately reflects your SDVOSB status.

4. Complete the VetBiz Verification Process:

• VetBiz Verification: Apply for verification through the VA’s Center for Verification and Evaluation (CVE). This process verifies your eligibility as a SDVOSB or VOSB (Veteran-Owned Small Business).
• Submit Documentation: Provide all necessary documentation to support your eligibility, including your DD Form 214, VA disability rating letter, and ownership documents.

5. Await Verification:

• Verification Review: The CVE will review your application and supporting documentation to determine your eligibility for the SDVOSB program.
• Respond to Requests: Be prepared to respond promptly to any requests for additional information or clarification during the verification process.

6. Achieve Verification:

• Approval Notification: If your application is approved, you will receive notification of your verified SDVOSB status.
• Maintain Your Status: Once verified, ensure ongoing compliance with program requirements to retain your SDVOSB eligibility.

7. Leverage SDVOSB Opportunities:

• Pursue Federal Contracts: Take advantage of set-aside contracts and sole-source opportunities reserved for SDVOSBs to grow your business and expand your federal contracting portfolio.
• Network and Collaborate: Build relationships with government agencies and prime contractors to increase your visibility and access to contracting opportunities.

8. Stay Informed and Engaged:

• Stay Updated: Keep abreast of changes to program requirements and regulations to ensure ongoing compliance.
• Participate in Training: Take advantage of training and resources offered by the SBA and other organizations to enhance your business capabilities and competitiveness.

9. Foster Growth and Success:

• Strategic Planning: Develop a growth strategy that leverages your SDVOSB status to maximize opportunities in the federal marketplace.
• Continuous Improvement: Continuously evaluate and refine your business processes and capabilities to position your company for long-term success.

10. Pay It Forward:

• Mentorship and Support: Pay it forward by mentoring other veteran-owned businesses and supporting initiatives that promote veteran entrepreneurship and employment.

By following these steps and meeting the eligibility criteria, your service-disabled veteran-owned small business can qualify for the SBA SDVOSB program and unlock a world of opportunities in federal contracting. Seize the opportunity to make a meaningful impact and achieve your business goals with the support of the SDVOSB program!

Contact SDB Growth at https://sdbgrowth.com/ for more information.