Question 1

Is SBA VetCert certification required for VA SDVOSB contracts?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Since January 1, 2023, SBA VetCert certification is required for all VA SDVOSB and VOSB set-aside contracts. The old VA CVE verification has been fully replaced. VA contracting officers verify status through the SBA VetCert database. Firms that were CVE-verified had a transition period to obtain VetCert certification. Without current VetCert certification, a firm cannot bid on VA SDVOSB set-asides.

Question 2

What is SBA's VetCert program?

Accepted Answer

SBA's VetCert (Veteran Small Business Certification) program is the official federal certification for SDVOSBs and VOSBs. As of January 1, 2023, SBA assumed responsibility for SDVOSB certification from the VA's Center for Verification and Evaluation (CVE). VetCert certification is required to compete for SDVOSB set-aside contracts across all federal agencies, including the VA. Certifications are valid for three years.

Question 3

What replaced the VA CVE verification program?

Accepted Answer

The VA's Center for Verification and Evaluation (CVE) formerly handled SDVOSB and VOSB verification for VA contracts. As of January 1, 2023, SBA's VetCert program fully replaced VA CVE verification. Existing CVE verifications were transitioned to SBA VetCert. Businesses that were previously CVE-verified needed to recertify under VetCert. The VetBiz.gov database is no longer used — VetCert status appears in SAM.gov.

Question 4

What is the VA Veterans First Contracting Program?

Accepted Answer

The VA Veterans First Contracting Program (VFCP) is established under 38 U.S.C. 8127-8128 and requires VA to prioritize SDVOSBs and VOSBs in procurement. VA contracting officers must conduct market research to find SDVOSBs and VOSBs before using other procurement methods. The program requires SBA VetCert certification for both SDVOSB and VOSB status. VA has its own sole-source thresholds and set-aside rules under this program.

Is SBA VetCert certification required for VA SDVOSB contracts?

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