Service Disabled Veteran Business Owners Info

The purpose of the Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Concern Procurement Program is to provide procuring agencies with the authority to set acquisitions aside for exclusive competition among service-disabled veteran-owned small business concerns. The program also has the authority to make sole source awards to service-disabled veteran-owned small business concerns if certain conditions are met.

At VAMBOA (Veterans and Military Business Owners Association), our focus is connecting Service Disabled Veteran Business Owners, Veteran Business Owners and Military Business Owners with opportunities to grow their businesses.

Statistics show that that 70 percent of Americans would prefer to do business with a veteran-owned business than one that is not veteran-owned. Veterans are trusted by Americans.

The private sector also represents endless contract potential. And while there is a demand for service disabled and veteran businesses qualified for contract opportunities, the certification process can be difficult to navigate.

To become certified as Vet-owned, you will need your DD 214. If you intend to apply for service-disabled status, you will also need a letter from the United States Department of Veteran Affairs stating that you are, indeed, service-disabled. Contact the VA’s benefits office if you have lost or misplaced this disability status letter.

The more important factor centers on whether in fact there exists actual veteran ownership, control, and direct “hands on” operating/ management, or whether a veteran’s status is being used in name only.

There will always be those who are ready, willing and able to play the system, evading laws, regulations, or guidelines to win a contract. But for those who want to play by the rules, help is available.

If you are a veteran or service-disabled veteran, the Small Business Administration (SBA) has a multitude of resources to help you start and grow your small business. From creating a business plan to finding your first customer, the SBA will assist you and help you succeed. They also have funding sources for your business.

And don’t forget to join VAMBOA. Membership is free, and you will receive all of the benefits of membership. Here is a link to join: http://www.vamboa.org/member-registration/