From Networking to Contracts: How to Get Certified as a Veteran-Owned Business

For many veterans, entrepreneurship isn’t just a career choice: it’s the next mission. And like any mission, success requires strategy, preparation, and access to the right resources. One of the most powerful tools available to veteran entrepreneurs today is business certification. Whether your goal is to work with government agencies, partner with major corporations, or elevate your brand’s credibility, becoming a certified Veteran-Owned Business can open doors other companies simply don’t have access to.

Yet, for many, the certification process feels overwhelming: paperwork, eligibility requirements, acronyms, agencies, and unclear benefits. 

The good news? Once you understand the path, it becomes manageable, and the payoff is worth every step.

 

This blog will walk you through:

• What veteran business certifications exist
• Why certification matters
• The exact process to get certified
• How to use your certification to win contracts
• Tips to maximize your visibility and opportunities

 

Why Certification Matters for Veteran Entrepreneurs

Before diving into the process, it’s important to understand why certification is so valuable. Veteran-owned business certifications provide access to a range of benefits, including:

 

1. Government Contracting Opportunities

Federal, state, and local governments set aside billions of dollars annually specifically for:

• Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (VOSB)
• Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB)

Certification is your ticket to compete for these set-aside contracts, which smaller businesses are more likely to win.

 

2. Corporate Supplier Programs

Major corporations such as Amazon, UPS, AT&T, Walgreens, and others run supplier diversity programs. Many actively seek to work with certified veteran-owned businesses.

 

3. Increased Credibility & Visibility

Certification demonstrates:

• Authenticity
• Reliability
• Commitment to quality
  Many veteran business owners report that certification directly increases trust with clients.

4. Access to Exclusive Networks

Once certified, you gain access to networking events, matchmaking sessions, procurement fairs, and searchable directories used by large buyers.

 

Types of Veteran-Owned Business Certifications

There are multiple certifications, depending on your goals. Here are the most important ones:

1. VA Certification (VETS First Program)

Includes:

• VOSB (Veteran-Owned Small Business)
• SDVOSB (Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business)

This is required for contracting with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, but is also recognized across the federal government.

2. SBA Certification (Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Program)

This provides access to federal SDVOSB contracting opportunities outside the VA.

3. State & Local Certifications

Some states (including Illinois) offer their own verification programs for:

• Veteran-Owned Businesses (VOB)
• Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses (SDVOB)

These open doors to local and state contracting opportunities.

4. National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC)

A third-party certification is widely respected in the corporate supplier diversity world.
Companies often require NVBDC certification to participate in supplier programs.

Step-by-Step: How to Get Certified as a Veteran-Owned Business

Becoming certified involves organization and documentation, but it’s absolutely doable. Below is a clear, structured walkthrough.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

To qualify as a Veteran-Owned Small Business, you must meet four main requirements:

1. 51% Ownership
   The business must be at least 51% owned by one or more veterans.
2. Management & Control
   A veteran must manage day-to-day operations and long-term decisions.
3. Small Business Status
   Your business must meet SBA size standards (varies by industry).
4. Documentation
   Typically includes DD-214 for veterans and a VA disability letter for SDVOSB applicants.

If you meet this criterion, you’re ready to move forward.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Regardless of the agency, you’ll need to prepare:

Personal Documentation

• DD-214 showing honorable discharge
• VA disability rating letter (if applying for SDVOSB)
• Government-issued ID

Business Documentation

• Articles of incorporation or organization
• Operating agreement or bylaws
• Stock certificates or member ownership ledger
• Business license
• Tax returns (business and personal)
• Resumes for veteran owners
• Contracts or leases, if applicable

Tip: Create a digital folder for easy re-uploading if applying to multiple programs.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application

Each certification program has its own platform:

VA VETS First (VOSB/SDVOSB)

Apply through the VA’s Center for Verification and Evaluation (CVE).

SBA SDVOSB Certification

Submit through the SBA’s Veteran Small Business Certification platform.

Illinois VOB/SDVOB Certification

Apply through the Illinois Procurement Gateway.

NVBDC

Submit through the NVBDC’s third-party verification portal.

Expect to spend 1–2 hours completing the forms.

Step 4: Prepare for the Document Review

After submission, your application enters a review phase. Agencies may:

• Request clarification
• Ask for missing documents
• Schedule an interview
• Conduct a site visit (NVBDC often does this)

Don’t be alarmed—this is routine.

Step 5: Pass the Interview or Site Visit (if required)

This usually involves confirming that the veteran:

• Makes all key business decisions
• Controls day-to-day operations
• Holds appropriate titles and responsibilities

Be honest, concise, and confident.

Step 6: Receive Certification

Once approved, you’ll receive:

• A formal certification letter
• A certificate (digital or printable)
• Access to directories and procurement systems

Most certifications last 1–3 years before requiring renewal.

How to Use Your Certification to Win Contracts

Certification is the first step. Using it effectively is where the real opportunity begins.

1. Register on Key Procurement Platforms

• SAM.gov (federal contracting)
• USA Spending (contract research)
• IPG / BidBuy (Illinois contracts)
• City of Chicago Vendor Portal
• NVBDC corporate vendor databases

2. Attend Veteran Supplier Events

Look for:

• Matchmaking sessions
• Procurement fairs
• Corporate supplier summits
• Veteran business expos
  These create face-to-face relationships with buyers.

3. Add Your Certification Everywhere

• Website
• Email signature
• LinkedIn profile
• Business cards
• Capability statement

4. Build a Strong Capability Statement

This one-page document is essentially your business résumé. It should include:

• What you do
• Past performance
• NAICS codes
• Certifications
• Contact information

5. Network with Other Veteran-Owned Businesses

Many veteran entrepreneurs collaborate on joint bids to win larger contracts.

6. Leverage Local Veteran Organizations

Groups such as Chicago Veteran Business Owners (CVBO) can help amplify your business and connect you with opportunities faster.

Tips for a Successful Certification Journey

• Stay organized: paperwork is the toughest part.
• Be patient: reviews can take 2–4 months depending on the agency.
• Use your network: other veteran business owners can be invaluable guides.
• Renew early: certification lapses can cost you contract eligibility.
• Tell your story: customers connect with your mission and service background.

Are you ready to grow your business, expand your network, and connect with other veterans who understand your mission? Join the Chicago Veteran Business Owners (CVBO) network.

CVBO is more than a directory; it’s a community built on support, collaboration, mentorship, and shared success. Whether you’re seeking contracting opportunities, business partnerships, or simply other veteran entrepreneurs who “get it,” this is where you’ll find your people.

Become part of the CVBO community today.