Step-By-Step Guide: Getting Your Business VA-Certified

If you're a military veteran who owns or is starting a business, one of the most powerful steps you can take is getting your company officially recognized through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. VA certification, formally known as Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) or Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification, opens the door to many opportunities. These opportunities include but are not limited to federal contracting, exclusive set-asides, and a network of veterans supporting veterans in commerce.

At the Maryland Veterans Chamber of Commerce, we are committed to empowering veteran owned businesses with the tools, knowledge, and community connections they need to succeed. This guide walks you through the VA certification process from start to finish. This way you can spend less time navigating red tape and more time growing your business.

What Is VA Certification and Why Does It Matter?

VA certification is an official designation issued by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs that verifies your business is legitimately owned and controlled by a veteran. There are two primary certifications available:

•        Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB): For any veteran who owns at least 51% of the business and controls its daily operations.

•        Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB):For veterans with a service-connected disability who own and control at least 51% of the business.

This designation comes with additional federal contracting preferences.

Being VA-certified means your business is listed in the VA's Vendor Information Pages (VIP) database. This makes you visible to federal procurement officers who are specifically required to seek out veteran-owned businesses for contracts. In fiscal year 2023 alone, the federal government awarded billions of dollars in contracts specifically to certified veteran-owned businesses. Getting certified is not just a badge, it is a direct path to real revenue.

Who Qualifies for VA Certification?

Before diving into the steps, it's important to confirm that you meet the basic eligibility requirements. To qualify, you must:

•        Be a U.S. military veteran: You must have served in the active military, naval, or air service and been discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable.

•        Own at least 51% of the business: The veteran(s) must hold the majority ownership stake in the company.

•        Control daily operations: The veteran owner must be responsible for the long-term decision-making and day-to-day management of the business.

•        Be a U.S. citizen: All veteran owners claiming the certification must be U.S. citizens.

•        Meet small business size standards: Your business must meet the SBA's definition of a small business based on your industry's NAICS code. You can find your industry NAICS codes here https://www.census.gov/naics/

The Step-by-Step VA Certification Process

STEP 1  Register in SAM.gov

Before you can apply for VA certification, your business must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov). This is the federal government's primary contractor database and is required for any business seeking federal contracts or certifications. Go to sam.gov, create an account, and complete your business profile. You will need your Employer Identification Number (EIN), NAICS codes for your industry, and your business banking information. Registration is free and must be renewed annually.

STEP 2  Gather Your Documentation

The VA certification process requires a thorough review of your business and your veteran status. Collect the following documents before you begin your application:

·       your DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty)

·       proof of citizenship

·       business licenses and registrations

·       articles of incorporation or organization

·       operating agreements or bylaws

·       financial statements

·       proof of ownership (stock certificates, membership agreements, etc.), and if applying for SDVOSB status

·       your VA disability rating letter.

STEP 3  Create an Account on the SBA Veterans Advantage Portal

As of January 2023, VA certification for VOSBs and SDVOSBs is now processed through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) via their Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert) program at veterans.certify.sba.gov. Create your account, select the certification type you are applying for (VOSB or SDVOSB), and begin your application.

STEP 4  Complete and Submit Your Application

Fill out your application carefully and completely. The SBA reviewers will be looking for clear evidence that a military veteran genuinely owns and controls the business. Be thorough, honest, and consistent across all documents. Upload all required documentation as requested. Incomplete applications are a leading cause of delays. DOUBLE-CHECK everything before you hit submit.

STEP 5  Respond to Any Requests for Additional Information

After submission, a program analyst will review your application. They may reach out requesting clarification or additional documentation. Respond promptly and completely. Delays in response can significantly slow down your certification timeline. This phase can take anywhere from 30 to 90 days depending on application volume and complexity.

STEP 6  Receive Your Certification and Get Listed

Once approved, your business will be officially certified and listed in the SBA's database. This database is accessible to federal contracting officers across all agencies including the VA. Your certification is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Make sure to update your SAM.gov profile to reflect your certification status.

What To Do After You're Certified

Certification is the beginning, not the finish line. Here's how to make the most of your new status:

•        Update your website, marketing materials, and LinkedIn profile to prominently feature your VOSB or SDVOSB status.

•        Search USASpending.gov and SAM.gov for federal contracting opportunities with VOSB/SDVOSB set-asides.

•        Connect with your local Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) for free help pursuing government contracts.

•        Engage with the Maryland Veterans Chamber of Commerce to network with other veteran owned businesses who can mentor, partner, and refer.

•        Look into supportive services for veterans and their families through VA and SBA programs that can provide additional business support.

How the Maryland Veterans Chamber of Commerce Can Help

Navigating the VA certification process can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. The Maryland Veterans Chamber of Commerce exists to be a resource, an advocate, and a community for veterans in business. We believe in veterans supporting veterans. Our hope is to connect you with members who have already been through this process.

Our network includes experienced business owners, legal professionals, financial advisors, and contracting specialists. We are all committed to the success of Maryland's military veteran business community. We also maintain connections to supportive services for veterans and their families. This includes programs that address housing, financial stability, and business development for those transitioning from service to entrepreneurship.

Are you just beginning your certification journey or looking to level up a certified business? The Maryland Veterans Chamber Of Commerce is here to walk alongside you. Reach out to us, attend one of our events, and plug into a community that understands the unique challenges, and extraordinary strengths, that veterans bring to the business table.

Ready To Join The Community?

Connect with the Maryland Veterans Chamber of Commerce today and take the next step in building your business.

Maryland Veterans Chamber of Commerce  |  Veterans Supporting Veterans  |  https://www.mdvcc.org