Author: Noah King

Federal certifications, like HUBZone, WOSB, VOSB, and 8(a), open the door to lucrative government contracts and exclusive opportunities. But qualifying for these certifications requires meeting specific criteria designed to promote equity and economic growth. To get started, it’s essential to understand the unique requirements of each certification and gather the necessary documentation.

• HUBZone: Your business must be located in a designated HUBZone, and at least 35% of your employees must reside there.
• Woman-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB/WOSB): Women must own and control at least 51% of the business.
• Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB/VOSB): The business must be at least 51% owned and controlled by a veteran.
• 8(a) Business Development Program: Applicants must prove social and economic disadvantage and meet revenue thresholds.

Preparing for certification involves research, strategic planning, and a clear understanding of how these designations align with your business goals. Need help? Partnering with experts can simplify the process and ensure you meet all the requirements for success.

USBRI has been assisting companies with federal registrations and certifications for over 13 years. A dedicated CRS (Certified Registration Specialist) would be assigned to your company, working directly with you to ensure your company is active and compliant. Additionally, they will keep up-to-date and inform you if your company meets requirements for additional certifications and opportunities.

If you’d like to find out if you qualify as a Small Business according to the SBA Size Standards, use the tool by clicking “Small Business Calculator Tool” below. Additionally, a SAM Registration is required to participate in Federal Contracting. Use the SAM Search Tool to find out if you have a registration or if the one you have has expired.

Small Business Success with Federal Contracting

Federal contracting offers small businesses a pathway to growth and sustainability through exclusive opportunities designed just for them. Programs like HUBZone, WOSB, VOSB, and 8(a) provide access to contracts set aside specifically for small businesses, limiting competition and increasing the likelihood of success.

Becoming a federal contractor also ensures a stable revenue stream. Government contracts often span multiple years with predictable payment schedules, giving businesses the financial consistency needed to plan for long-term growth.

In addition, federal contracts enhance your business’s credibility. Working with the government demonstrates your ability to meet strict standards, making you more attractive to future clients in both public and private sectors.

Some key benefits include:

• Exclusive access to small business set-aside contracts
• Steady, reliable revenue from government payments
• Increased credibility that boosts your market position

USBRI has been assisting companies with federal registrations and certifications for over 13 years. A dedicated CRS (Certified Registration Specialist) would be assigned to your company, working directly with you to ensure your company is active and compliant. Additionally, they will keep up-to-date and inform you if your company meets requirements for additional certifications and opportunities.

If you’d like to find out if you qualify as a Small Business according to the SBA Size Standards, use the tool by clicking “Small Business Calculator Tool” below. Additionally, a SAM Registration is required to participate in Federal Contracting. Use the SAM Search Tool to find out if you have a registration or if the one you have has expired.

The difference between state and federal certifications is that the state certification (more commonly known as the SBE Certification) is given out by state and local government. Federal Certifications (such as WOSB, VOSB, HUBZone, and 8(a) Minority Owned) are specifically those who plan to do business with the federal government.

The federal government allocates 23% of contracting dollars to those who are a Small Business according to the SBA’s Size Standards. Additionally, those companies that qualify for Set-Aside Certifications will have the opportunity to be award no-bid contracts.

USBRI has been offering assistance for Federal Registrations and Certifications since 2013. If you are looking to begin your journey in federal contracting, do not hesitate to reach out to the USBRI Help Desk at 1-888-646-9998 and a CRS will be able to help you with any questions you may have.

A SAM Registration is required for all businesses looking to be contracted by the federal government. If you are unsure if your business has a SAM Registration, use the SAM Search Tool by clicking the button below.