The NEW MySBA Veteran Certification for Veteran Owned Small Businesses Explained

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If you’re a veteran entrepreneur running a Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) or a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), there’s exciting news coming your way!

The Small Business Administration (SBA) is launching MySBA Certifications, a streamlined, user-friendly system that will open in October 2024.

This new platform will make it easier for veteran-owned businesses to apply for and manage federal contracting certifications, unlocking access to invaluable government contracting opportunities.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the new MySBA Certifications platform, how it affects your veteran-owned small business, and the steps you can take to prepare for the rollout.

Whether you’re a seasoned business owner or just starting out, getting certified opens doors to significant federal contracting opportunities that can propel your business to new heights!

Summary of Key Points

• MySBA Certifications: The SBA is launching MySBA Certifications in October 2024, a unified system that simplifies the application process for federal contracting certifications, including VOSB, SDVOSB, WOSB, and HUBZone.

• Veteran-Owned Small Business SBA Certification Benefits: Certified veteran-owned businesses can access set-aside and sole-source contracts, with the VA reserving at least 7% of contracts for VOSBs and SDVOSBs, and 5% of all federal contracting dollars set aside for SDVOSBs.

• Preparation Steps: Ensure your SAM.gov registration is up to date, organize necessary documents (e.g., proof of 51% veteran ownership), and monitor SBA updates to be ready for the new platform.

• Tools & Support: MySBA now provides a single login, centralized document storage, and customer support, with the added benefit of automatic notifications about other certifications your business may qualify for.

What is the SBA Veteran Certification (VetCert)?

The Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert) is an official certification program run by the Small Business Administration (SBA) that allows Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (VOSBs) and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs) to compete for valuable federal contracts.

This certification is critical because it grants access to sole-source and set-aside contracts within the federal government.

• VOSBs: Certified veteran-owned small businesses can pursue contracts specifically reserved for them through programs like the VA’s Vets First program. This program allocates contracts exclusively to VOSBs, giving them an edge in federal procurement at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

• SDVOSBs: For service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses, certification provides opportunities to compete for sole-source and set-aside contracts not just at the VA, but across the entire federal government. This significantly increases opportunities for government business.

How to Register for the SBA’s VetCert

You can register a new account with the SBA or sign in if you already have an SBA account.

Note: The MySBA Certifications, which is a new, single application for all SBA federal contracting certifications that will open to the public in October.

What is a SBA Veteran Owned Business?

To qualify for VetCert through the SBA, your small business must meet the following requirements:

• 51% or More Veteran Ownership: The business must be at least 51% owned by one or more veterans or service-disabled veterans. This ownership requirement ensures that veterans retain control over the business and its operations.

• Registered in SAM.gov: Your business must be properly registered as a small business with SAM.gov (System for Award Management). SAM.gov is the official database where businesses register to do business with the U.S. government.

• Meet SBA’s Size Standards: The business must qualify as a small business according to the SBA’s established size standards, which vary depending on the industry. These size standards ensure that only small businesses benefit from the VetCert program and the set-aside contract opportunities. You can check the SBA’s Size Standards to determine if your business qualifies.

By obtaining the VetCert certification, veteran-owned small businesses gain a competitive edge in the federal contracting space, opening doors to lucrative government contracts that help grow and scale their businesses.

What is the New MySBA Certifications Platform?

MySBA Certifications is the SBA’s new unified system for all federal contracting certifications.

Previously, small business owners had to navigate multiple platforms depending on the type of certification they needed.

With MySBA, that’s all about to change.

This new platform consolidates the application and management process for all major federal certifications, including:

• Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB)

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

• Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB)

• Economically Disadvantaged WOSB (EDWOSB)

• 8(a) Business Development Program

• HUBZone Certification

This streamlined system will reduce paperwork, speed up processing times, and make it easier for businesses like yours to secure valuable federal contracts.

Why This Matters for Veteran-Owned Small Businesses

Certification through the SBA can be a game-changer for your veteran-owned small business.

Here’s why:

#1. Access to SBA Tools and Resources

Certified VOSBs and SDVOSBs also gain access to a variety of SBA tools and resources designed to help small businesses succeed in federal procurement and beyond.

These tools include:

• Federal procurement preparation: Resources to help you understand how to compete for government contracts.

• Commercial supply chain connections: Opportunities to build relationships with major companies.

• Local business community involvement: Networking and collaboration with other businesses in your area.

• Surplus federal property: Certified businesses can purchase excess government property at reduced costs.

• Access to capital: SBA resources help veteran-owned businesses secure the financing needed to grow.

• Disaster mitigation tools: Support to help protect your business from disasters.

#2. Automatic Set-Aside for Small Businesses

One of the key benefits is that all federal purchases between $10,000 and $250,000 are automatically set aside for small businesses, as long as there are at least two businesses that can provide the product or service at a fair and reasonable price.

This ensures that smaller companies, including veteran-owned businesses, have the opportunity to secure government contracts.

#3. Benefits for Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (VOSBs)

Being certified as a VOSB allows your business to:

• Compete for sole-source and set-aside contracts at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The VA reserves at least 7% of its contracts each year for certified VOSBs and SDVOSBs.

• Participate in other socio-economic programs: VOSBs can also qualify for other federal programs that provide contracting opportunities for small businesses.

#4. Benefits for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs)

Certified SDVOSBs receive additional advantages:

• Sole-source and set-aside contracts: These businesses can compete for federal contracts that are specifically set aside for service-disabled veterans.

• 5% of all federal contracting dollars: At least 5% of the total federal contracting budget is earmarked for SDVOSBs each year, providing significant opportunities for growth.

• Like VOSBs, SDVOSBs can also participate in other socio-economic contracting programs, giving them even more chances to secure government business.

How to Prepare for the MySBA Certification Rollout

The SBA paused new certification applications starting August 1, 2024, to prepare for the transition to MySBA Certifications, which will go live in October 2024.

If you submitted your certification before August 1, it will still be processed, but no new applications will be accepted until the system launch.

Here’s how you can get ready:

• Update Your SAM.gov Profile: Ensure your SAM.gov registration is current. This includes verifying your UEI, TIN, bank account information, and other business details. An active SAM.gov registration is required to apply for or maintain SBA certifications.

• Organize Your Documents: The new system will largely use the same documentation as the current process. Take this time to gather and update any necessary documents, such as proof of 51% veteran ownership and compliance with SBA size standards.

• Stay Informed: The SBA will release additional resources and guidance as we get closer to the launch. Be sure to monitor SBA updates and visit the certification upgrade page for the latest information.

How MySBA Certifications Benefits Veteran-Owned Businesses

The new MySBA Certifications system offers several benefits designed to make life easier for veteran-owned businesses:

• One Login, Multiple Certifications: With one account, you can apply for and manage multiple federal certifications. This eliminates the hassle of using multiple systems for different certifications.

• Centralized Document Storage: MySBA provides a document repository where you can store and reuse your business documents across multiple applications. This reduces repetitive paperwork and speeds up future applications or renewals.

• Notifications and Updates: The platform will notify you about additional certifications you may qualify for, helping you maximize your business’s opportunities.

• Customer Support: A single customer service center will assist you with any questions related to the MySBA system or certification applications.

Why You Should Get SBA Certified

If you’re on the fence about whether certification is worth it for your business, here are a few compelling reasons:

• Access to Federal Contracts: Certification allows your business to compete for government contracts specifically set aside for veteran-owned or service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses.

• Revenue Growth: Winning federal contracts can provide a stable revenue stream and help your business scale faster than in the private sector alone.

• Networking Opportunities: Certification can also connect you with a network of other veteran-owned businesses, resources, and mentorship programs designed to support your business’ growth and success.

Need Help? MySBA Contact and Support Information

There are several ways for your veteran-owned business to get support from the SBA, including phone, email, and online resources such as FAQs:

General SBA VetCert Support:

• Phone: 1-800-862-8088

• Online: FAQs

• Hours of Operation: 8am – 6pm ET

Time Sensitive SBA VetCert Support:

• Email: [email protected]      

• Phone: 202-205-6459

Conclusion & Wrap-Up

The launch of MySBA Certifications is a major win for veteran-owned small businesses, making it easier to navigate federal contracting and unlock valuable opportunities.

Whether you’re looking to secure set-aside contracts or grow your business with government partnerships, certification is your key to success.

Get prepared now by updating your SAM.gov profile and gathering the necessary documentation.

Fellow Veterans, this is your chance to grow your business—get certified, get connected, and get contracting!

MySBA Small Business Certification Program: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When will MySBA Certifications start accepting applications?

MySBA Certifications is expected to begin accepting applications in October 2024. The SBA paused new applications on August 1, 2024, to prepare for the transition to this new system.

What happens if I already submitted a completed application in Certify, WOSB Certify, VetCert, or HUBZone (HCTS) systems? Will my application be automatically transferred to MySBA Certifications?

If you submitted your certification application through one of the legacy systems before August 1, 2024, it will continue to be processed in that system until a decision is made. These applications will not be automatically transferred to MySBA Certifications. However, if you’re eligible for multiple certifications, you can withdraw your existing application and start a new one in MySBA using many of the same documents—though these will not be transferred over automatically.

What if I started an application in Certify, WOSB Certify, VetCert, or HUBZone (HCTS) but haven’t completed or submitted it?

Applications that were started but not submitted, or applications returned for corrections before August 1, 2024, will be closed. To apply for certification, you will need to submit a new application in MySBA Certifications, which is expected to open in October 2024.

What happened on August 1, 2024, and which services were affected during the transition?

On August 1, 2024, the SBA stopped accepting new certification applications in preparation for the launch of MySBA Certifications. Applications submitted before this date are still being processed. Draft or returned applications were closed. The SBA has ensured that small businesses pursuing contracts during the current fiscal year will experience minimal disruption during this transition.

What should I do if I have a pending contract opportunity this fiscal year but don’t have certification?

If you’re awaiting certification and have a pending contract opportunity, email [email protected] with the solicitation number, the contracting officer’s contact information, and the bid due date. Be sure to include “Pending Contract” in the subject line, and the SBA will work to expedite a manual review to ensure a decision is made.

What happens to firms with active certifications in the current legacy systems? Will information be automatically transferred to MySBA Certifications?

If your firm already has an active certification, you will continue to manage it in the legacy system until October 14, 2024. The SBA will notify certified firms about how to transfer their certifications to MySBA Certifications before the new continuing eligibility module launches in November 2024.

What should I do if my certification needs to be renewed before MySBA Certifications goes live?

For firms with certification renewals due between August 1, 2024, and August 1, 2025, the SBA has granted a one-year extension. The renewal process will take place in MySBA Certifications after your anniversary date. Specific timelines depend on the type of certification:

• WOSB/EDWOSB: Firms will renew after June 1, 2025.

• VOSB/SDVOSB: Firms will renew on their anniversary date after August 1, 2025.

• HUBZone: Firms with renewal dates before October 1 will use the legacy system; after October 1, they will use MySBA Certifications starting November 6, 2024.

• 8(a) Business Development Program: Annual reviews will continue in the legacy system until October 15, 2024, and then move to MySBA on November 6, 2024.

How will contracting officers verify the certification status of firms during the transition?

Contracting officers will continue to verify the certification status of firms through the SBA’s Dynamic Small Business Search database or VetCert for veteran-owned firms. This process will remain uninterrupted during the transition to MySBA Certifications.

What new features will MySBA Certifications offer? Will everything be the same as before?

MySBA Certifications will offer several new features, including a single login for all certifications, centralized document storage, and a comprehensive knowledge base with user guides, checklists, and eligibility requirements. The system will also provide notifications about other certifications your business may qualify for and have a unified customer service center to support all certification-related inquiries.

What should I do if I need to report a material change before MySBA Certifications goes live?

Until October 15, 2024, firms in the VOSB/SDVOSB or WOSB/EDWOSB programs should continue reporting material changes through the legacy systems. 8(a) Business Development Program participants should contact their servicing Business Opportunity Specialist. After November 6, 2024, all firms will report material changes in MySBA Certifications.

What if my certification application was declined in the legacy system?

If your certification application was declined or you withdrew it, you will need to apply as a new applicant in MySBA Certifications starting in October 2024. Information from legacy systems will not transfer to the new platform, so you’ll need to submit a fresh application.

What if I need more assistance during this transition?

For additional assistance, you can reach out to [email protected] or call 202-205-6459. You can also visit the SBA’s certification upgrade page for the latest information and updates.

How can I prepare to apply in October?

To prepare for the launch of MySBA Certifications in October 2024, make sure your SAM.gov account is active and that your business information, including UEI, TIN, and bank account details, is up to date. Familiarize yourself with the eligibility requirements for the certifications you want to apply for, and gather the required documents now so you’re ready to apply once the system opens.

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