In order to promote a fair business environment for women, the government has established the Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contract program, which restricts competition for certain contracts to participating businesses.
These contracts are specifically for goods and services in industries where women-owned small businesses are underrepresented, as identified by NAICS codes. Some contracts within the program are further limited to economically disadvantaged women-owned small businesses (EDWOSBs). The SBA maintains a list of eligible industries and their corresponding NAICS codes.
By joining the WOSB Federal Contract program, a business becomes eligible to compete for federal contracts that are reserved exclusively for certified participants of the program. These contracts, known as “set-asides,” offer opportunities specifically designated for WOSB-certified firms. Additionally, WOSB-certified businesses remain eligible to compete for contract awards through other socio-economic programs such as 8(a) and HUBZone, provided they meet the respective criteria.
It is important to note that the benefits of WOSB certification are applicable solely to federal contracting opportunities and do not extend to the private sector.
To check your WOSB Eligibility, click below!