In July 2025, Representative Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin introduced an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that could have a major impact on veteran-owned small businesses (VOSBs) nationwide. Officially titled the “Department of Defense Contracting Goals for Small Business Concerns Owned and Controlled by Veterans”, this amendment is designed to give veteran entrepreneurs a bigger, clearer seat at the federal contracting table.

And here’s the best part—there’s no waiting period to get VOSB certified. Start your business today, get certified tomorrow, and be ready to compete for contracts as soon as your name appears in the official database.

If you’re a veteran-owned business—or you’ve been considering applying for VOSB or SDVOSB (Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business) certification—this is news you can’t afford to overlook.

In this article, we’ll break down:

What the amendment says and why it matters
The potential impact on veteran-owned small businesses
How VOSB and SDVOSB certification works
Why now is the right time to prepare
How FedBiz Access can help you certify faster and compete stronger

Understanding the VOSB Amendment

The amendment proposed by Rep. Van Orden directs the Department of Defense (DoD) to set specific, measurable contracting goals each fiscal year for small business concerns owned and controlled by veterans.

These annual goals would be no less than the government-wide target for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business participation already established under the Small Business Act. In other words, the DoD wouldn’t just be encouraged to work with VOSBs—it would be required to set a numeric benchmark for awarding contracts to them.

Key Provisions of the Amendment:

Annual Contracting Goals – The DoD must set a participation target for VOSBs at least equal to the service-disabled veteran target.
Sole Source Awards – Contracting officers could award certain contracts to veteran-owned small businesses without full competition, provided specific criteria are met (responsible vendor, fair price, and under certain dollar thresholds).
Restricted Competition Authority – Contracts could also be set aside specifically for competition among VOSBs if at least two are expected to submit competitive offers.
Eligibility Verification – Businesses must be verified and listed in the official veteran-owned small business database to qualify.

Why This Matters for Veteran-Owned Businesses

Historically, while the federal government has set participation goals for SDVOSBs, non-service-disabled veteran-owned businesses haven’t always been prioritized in the same way. This amendment could change that by creating formal accountability within the Department of Defense—the largest single buyer of goods and services in the federal marketplace.

The Positive Impact

Increased Opportunity – Defined targets mean contracting officers will be actively looking for VOSBs to fulfill procurement goals.
Competitive Advantage – Sole source and restricted competition awards lower the barrier to entry for many contracts.
Stronger Market Visibility – Once the DoD is tracking and reporting VOSB participation, your certification becomes a powerful marketing asset.
Economic Empowerment for Veterans – Beyond contracts, this could mean more veteran-owned firms scaling operations, hiring, and investing in communities.

How VOSB and SDVOSB Certification Works

To benefit from the amendment’s potential opportunities, you must first be officially certified as a Veteran-Owned Small Business or Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business.

Basic Eligibility:

At least 51% owned and controlled by one or more U.S. military veterans (or service-disabled veterans).
Day-to-day management and long-term decision-making must be conducted by the veteran owner(s).
Proper documentation proving veteran status and, for SDVOSB, service-connected disability rating.

Verification Process:
Certification requires registration in SAM.gov and verification through the Veteran Small Business Certification Program administered by the SBA. The process includes:

Application Preparation – Gathering required business, personal, and military service documentation.
Application Submission – Filing with the SBA through its certification portal.
Review and Approval – SBA review, clarification requests, and final determination.

While this might sound straightforward, errors, incomplete documents, or delays can easily push your approval out for months—potentially causing you to miss contracting windows like the ones this amendment could create.

Call Today for Eligibility: (877) 387-2204

Why Timing Is Critical

Legislation can move quickly once momentum builds. If this amendment becomes law, the DoD could set its first VOSB goals as early as the next fiscal year. That means:

Contracting officers will begin searching for verified VOSBs in the government database.
Sole source and set-aside contracts could be posted immediately after targets are adopted.

And remember—there’s no waiting period. You can start your business and get certified right away. The sooner you’re certified, the sooner you’re visible to decision-makers.

How FedBiz Access Helps Veteran-Owned Businesses Succeed

At FedBiz Access, we’ve spent over two decades helping veteran entrepreneurs cut through red tape and get certified faster. We’re not just familiar with the process—we’ve guided thousands of businesses to successful VOSB and SDVOSB verification.

What Sets Us Apart:

Expedited VOSB Certification Support – We know what the SBA reviewers look for and how to submit a clean, complete application that avoids unnecessary delays. Learn more
SAM.gov Optimization – Your federal profile is just as important as your certification; we ensure it’s aligned to attract contracting officers. Learn more
End-to-End Assistance – From document gathering to submission to post-certification marketing, we cover it all.
Proven Results – Our clients have gone on to win millions in federal set-aside contracts, leveraging their certification status as a competitive edge.

Leveraging Your Certification After Approval

Certification is just the beginning. Once you’re approved:

Update Your Capability Statement to showcase your new status. We can help
Market Directly to Contracting Officers—especially in the DoD—using tools like the Federal Connections Package.
Respond to Set-Asides Quickly—you’ll need systems in place to track and respond to opportunities in SAM.gov and other platforms.
Build Partnerships—teaming with other contractors can position you for larger awards.

FedBiz Access provides guidance in all these areas, ensuring you turn certification into contracts.

Real-World Example

One of our clients, a service-disabled veteran-owned IT firm, came to us frustrated after trying to certify on their own for nearly a year. We completed their application in just a few weeks, secured approval, and helped them rewrite their capability statement. Within six months, they secured their first DoD sole source contract, valued at over $250,000—work they would never have been eligible for without SDVOSB status.

The Bottom Line: Prepare Now, Compete Stronger

The VOSB amendment is more than a policy change—it’s a potential turning point for thousands of veteran-owned businesses. But opportunities only matter if you’re ready to seize them. Certification isn’t optional; it’s your entry ticket to the upcoming wave of contracts.

By starting now, you position your business to:

Be visible in the DoD’s search for VOSB vendors.
Compete for contracts reserved exclusively for veteran-owned firms.
Benefit from the sole source authority outlined in the amendment.

And with the right support, you can get there faster and with less frustration.

Special Offer for Veteran Entrepreneurs

To help more veterans get certified ahead of this potential change, FedBiz Access is offering 10% off VOSB/SDVOSB certification services through September 5, 2025.

Call us today at (877) 387-2204 to check your eligibility and get started.

About FedBiz Access

FedBiz Access has helped small businesses navigate the federal marketplace for over 20 years. Our services include registrations, socio-economic certifications, GSA Schedule proposals, market research, and targeted marketing campaigns. We’ve assisted thousands of veteran-owned and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses in securing certification and winning federal contracts.

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2 weeks ago

THE TEAM--Wayne-Frank-Ashley =A+ Team. All of them are there for you, and unlike many other places we interviewed, they are keen to answer your calls and questions in an expeditious manner. We never have to wait very long to get help. We tried many firms, and NONE can hold a candle to "THIS" team. Thx guys for your "CARING"

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4 weeks ago

I met Sidney Waters one year ago on a conference call. Really personable and ready to help companies become properly equipped government contractors. Their resources and expert guidance provide everything you need to implement your strategy and hit the ground running. Although I haven't subscribed to Fed Biz Access, Sidney Waters has consistently checked in on our progress, providing "gold nuggets" and directing us to government resources. To be honest, he doesn't have to, but he's a quality individual. And for that, we appreciate him. The team at Fed Biz Access consists of former contracting officers who clearly know their stuff. If you are looking to start a government contracting business, I highly recommend calling Sidney Waters before spending your budget elsewhere. He is a genuine, professional who genuinely wants you to succeed.

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1 month ago

Ashley Futral and the entire staff at FedBiz Access are very knowledgable and helpful. Ashley has helped me navigate the arduous process of GSA approval with great care and speed.

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diane canovas

1 month ago

I've been working with Ashley Futral for almost 2 years, after taking over as Account Administrator for our SAM.gov account. Interaction with Ashley has always been pleasant. She took the time to explain what she was doing as she navigated through the process of updating our account information. Very knowledgeable, which was a relief as I was just taking over the role of Admin. Thank you Ashley, "Thumbs Up"

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1 month ago

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1 month ago

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Al Hogan

1 month ago

I cannot say enough good things about Ashley Futral and the exceptional support she provided throughout my SBA and SDVOSB certification process. From start to finish, Ashley demonstrated an outstanding level of professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to customer service. Navigating the certification process can be overwhelming, but her knowledge, guidance, and responsiveness made the entire experience smooth and stress-free. Ashley took the time to thoroughly review every requirement, identify potential issues before they became problems, and ensure that all documentation was accurate and complete. Her meticulous attention to detail played a significant role in helping me successfully obtain both my SBA certification and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification. What impressed me most was her genuine dedication to her clients. She was always available to answer questions, provide updates, and offer expert advice throughout the process. Her communication was timely, clear, and professional, giving me confidence every step of the way. If you are seeking assistance with SBA certifications, SDVOSB certifications, or government contracting registrations, I highly recommend Ashley Futral. Her expertise, work ethic, and customer-focused approach are truly second to none. Thank you, Ashley, for your outstanding support and for helping me achieve this important milestone for my business. I also want to add I wouked with Mya Plant. Mya Plant exceeded every expectation and delivered a capability statement that truly elevated our organization's professional image and marketability. From our initial consultation through the final product, Mya demonstrated exceptional professionalism, attention to detail, and a genuine commitment to understanding our business. She took the time to learn about our organization's history, capabilities, certifications, differentiators, and long-term goals, then transformed that information into a polished, visually appealing, and highly effective capability statement. What impressed me most was her ability to take complex information and present it in a clear, concise, and compelling format that speaks directly to potential government agencies, contracting officers, and business partners. Her recommendations improved not only the document itself but also how we communicate our value proposition to prospective clients. Mya was responsive, patient, and incredibly easy to work with throughout the entire process. Every revision was completed quickly, and she consistently went above and beyond to ensure the final product exceeded our expectations. Thanks to her expertise, we now have a professional capability statement that accurately reflects our organization, strengthens our credibility, and positions us more effectively for government contracting and business development opportunities. If you are considering hiring Mya for capability statements, government contracting support, branding materials, or professional business documents, I recommend her without hesitation. Her expertise, customer service, and dedication to excellence are second to none. Thank you, Mya, for your outstanding work and commitment to our success. We look forward to working with you again in the future. — Professor Al Hogan Owner, Team Randori Martial Arts Retired U.S. Army CW4 | Veteran-Owned Business Owner

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1 month ago

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2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker was exceptional, very helpful and was always there whenever we need her, thank you Elizabeth for being the great person that you are. We at Collins Henry, LLC is very grateful to have her working on our behalf....

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2 months ago

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2 months ago

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Stacy Hall

2 months ago

Trying to update anything with a govenrment agency is always a nightmare. After fighting with Sam.gov for weeks and getting nowhere, we reached out to Constance for help. She has made this SO much easier on us and gotten our account active again.

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2 months ago

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Minerva Finishes

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker has been so very helpful to us. We are a very small business attempting to navigate the Government Contracts process. Elizabeth is quite knowledgeable, easy to understand and patient.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist and this five star google review for our Company. Look forward to assisting you as needed in the future.

Lynn Tyler

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker helped me get my recertification. She made the process painless. She also helped me update my SAM.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Congratulations on your recent recertification, and thank you for the opportunity to assist you in that process.

Schimpf's Garage

2 months ago

Cecilia and Sid go well above and beyond to assist me with registering my business with the VA and updating my profile with relevant business changes. Additionally, Frank is a master of contracting and has assisted us in navigating FedBiz's contracting databases and in reviewing proposed bids and contracts. I highly recommend this team to anyone seeking to register their business with the VA and applying for government contracts!

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your recent bid award, we appreciate the recognition of the FedBiz Access services and consultants in assisting you in that endeavor. More importantly, thank you for your service to our country! We value your recommendation, as always, a pleasure to assist with your government contracting goals, registrations and awards.

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2 months ago

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Response from the owner:Thank you for your continued business and your trust in the FedBiz Access team; Looking forward to being of valuable service as needed with your marketing and government contracting goals.

Ray Gould

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whittaker handled our request for SDVOSB very efficiently and we are most grateful for her assistance. sincerely, ray gould Marine & Valve Supply

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your SDVOSB Award and thank you for the opportunity to assist in that endeavor on your behalf. We are excited for your success!

Kati Gibbs

2 months ago

Love working with FedBiz! They are so communicative and helpful. Constance is such a pleasure to work with in getting our SBA profile set up, Lou is amazing at setting us up in FedBiz, and Frank is very informative when training us on FedBiz365. I highly recommend FedBiz!

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3 months ago

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John Diaz

3 months ago

Mya works very accurately and delivers high-quality work in creating our Capability Statement for the GSA organization. Highly recommend her and her organization, FEDBIZACCESS.

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Sandra Chen

3 months ago

Ashley Futral is exceptionally helpful, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to collaborate with. Her efficiency and swift communication have been invaluable, and I greatly appreciate her guidance throughout the process.

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Jacqueline Winter

3 months ago

FedBiz makes renewals so easy and simple which is great as when doing it directly with the gov't is so much more complicated! It was great working with Ashley Futral on on our latest renewal - she saved me so much time! She also helped sort out issues that came up with SAM that I don't think we could have solved on our own. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Very Much Appreciated. We value your loyalty and repeat business over the years. Thank you for allowing us to assist; Fed Biz Access is at your service for all your government contracting needs, from registration to award.

Tara Goldsby

4 months ago

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Response from the owner:Thank you. We appreciate your feedback and repeat business with our agency year after year. Our FedBiz Access government contracting assistance team aims high for your satisfaction and results. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

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4 months ago

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