Supporting Veteran Small Business Entrepreneurs: Resources and Opportunities from GSA
This Veterans Day, K&G and the General Services Administration (GSA) proudly recognizes the invaluable contributions and sacrifices of our veterans. GSA’s commitment to veterans goes beyond honoring them once a year. They actively support veteran-owned small businesses (VOSBs) by connecting them with essential resources to succeed in the federal procurement landscape.
Why Contracting with VOSBs Benefits Everyone
Veteran-owned businesses are uniquely positioned to bring discipline, resilience, and leadership skills honed through military service into their entrepreneurial ventures. By contracting with VOSBs, the federal government and American taxpayers benefit from the innovation and expertise of these dedicated business owners. In return, these contracts help VOSBs grow, create jobs, and continue contributing to our nation’s economy.
During fiscal year 2023, GSA awarded over $1.1 billion in prime contracts to veteran-owned small businesses. Out of this, $808 million went specifically to service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses (SDVOSBs). These businesses are an essential bridge between the private sector and government operations, providing services and solutions that directly support federal initiatives.
Tools and Resources for VOSB’s
If you are a veteran entrepreneur exploring federal procurement or an experienced VOSB seeking additional support, GSA offers a suite of resources tailored to your needs. Here’s how you can get started:
1. GSA Veteran-Owned Business Tools & Resources
GSA is dedicated to expanding access to federal contracts for VOSBs. Their video series, Doing Business with GSA - SDVOSBs, provides insights into how SDVOSBs can work with GSA. Additionally, you can review the eligibility requirements for set-aside contracts designated for SDVOSBs, ensuring you meet the criteria to take advantage of these opportunities.
2. Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert)
Certification can open doors for VOSBs to pursue federal contracts. By visiting veterans.certify.sba.gov, veteran-owned businesses can receive certification from the Small Business Administration (SBA). Certified VOSBs and SDVOSBs gain access to sole-source and set-aside contracts, including exclusive opportunities under the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Vets First program and additional contracts across the federal government.
3. Boots to Business (B2B)
For veterans interested in entrepreneurship but unsure where to start, the SBA offers Boots to Business (B2B), an entrepreneurial education and training program. Part of the Department of Defense’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP), B2B provides a comprehensive introduction to entrepreneurship fundamentals. Active duty service members, veterans of all eras, National Guard and Reserve members, and spouses are all eligible for this valuable training.
4. Additional VA OSDBU Assistance
The VA’s Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) offers multiple resources to support veteran entrepreneurs:
Acquisition Support helps you find VA procurements, contract awards, and acquisition resources available to small and veteran businesses.
Direct Access Program offers unique opportunities for veteran-owned small businesses to build partnerships, maximize networking, and gain access to procurement decision makers through Direct Access Events.
Strategic Outreach and Communications connects Veteran-owned and other small businesses interested in doing business with VA to resources, education, and training.
Moving Forward Together
Whether you’re just starting or have been in business for years, both K&G and GSA’s resources are here to support your journey. Veteran-owned small businesses bring exceptional value to the federal government.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your federal contracting journey, explore the resources above, connect with our community, and let us help you succeed. This Veterans Day, let’s honor our veterans not only with words, but with meaningful opportunities to grow and prosper.
