How to: Government Contracting for Veteran-Owned Businesses

In addition, you’ll need either a disability rating letter from the VA or a disability determination from the Department of Defense. Entrepreneurs and industry leaders share their best advice on how to take your company to the next level. Good CompanyEntrepreneurs and industry leaders share their best advice on how to take your company to the next level. Connect with your local branch manager to start moving your business forward. Schedule an appointment at your local financial center using our online tool. The VA certifies small businesses through its Vets First Verification Program, administered by the Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization .

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Although initially unsuccessful, Winemiller did not become discouraged, and Greenleaf’s main focus has been on government contracts since 2008. The company provides services to government grounds such as the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Wilmington, Delaware; Togus National Cemetery in Maine; Beverly National Cemetery in New Jersey; and many others. Greenleaf’s success has allowed Winemiller to hire other veterans, a hiring practice that helps boost the culture of respect differentiating Greenleaf from other businesses. Most exciting is a recent contract awarded in September, 2014 which gave Greenleaf the authority to take care of 640 acres at Arlington National Cemetery for a base year with two option years.

This is especially useful if you operate a business that may see a lot of military clients, such as a cleaners, barber shop, cleaning service, movers, etc. One of the most challenging aspects of starting a new business from the ground up is securing the necessary funding to back your dream. While there are grants and SBA programs available to veterans, you may also consider financing through a microlender. Microlenders, such as Accion Opportunity Fund, provide loans for start-up and operational business costs. These loan programs may not be available from more traditional lenders and are often easier to get than traditional bank loans.

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Their services include mentoring, career counseling, and networking with corporate and academic professionals. As a veteran, you’ve served your country bravely and honorably. You may be considering your next job opportunity and wondering if now is the time to start your own business. The good news is that there are many business resources specifically available to veteran-owned companies.

Steps to Verification

To start the certification process, register with VetBiz Registry, a veteran business database through the U.S. If you are service-disabled, you will need a disability status letter from the VA during the application process. The City of Chicago VBE certification will ensure that businesses that are seeking to take advantage of the incentives and programs established for veterans are legitimately sempersolaris owned, operated, and controlled by veterans. The VBE certification program mirrors the application process that is in place for minority and women-owned business enterprises (MBE/WBE). This partial listing of contracting opportunities is also frequently updated with opportunities for veteran owned small businesses. Being a veteran already sets you apart, and it can also boost your business.

Only verified businesses listed in the database have access to the opportunities available under his program. They will then be eligible to subcontract with VA’s prime contractors. This program allows the VA to set aside procurement opportunities specifically for verified VOSB and SDVOSB small businesses. This involves being listed in the VIP database mentioned above. The majority (54%) of veteran-owned firms have just one to four employees and 71.3% have between one and nine. With that in mind, lawmakers have made it their business to help veteran entrepreneurs succeed — especially those who own small businesses.