Question 1

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.

Question 2

How does VA treat SDVOSBs vs. VOSBs in contracting?

Accepted Answer

Under VA's Veterans First Contracting Program (38 USC 8127), VA must first consider SDVOSBs, then VOSBs, before using other small business programs or full-and-open competition. SDVOSBs have the highest priority. If the VA contracting officer cannot identify at least two SDVOSBs to meet the rule of two, they cascade to VOSBs. Only if the VOSB requirement also cannot be met do they consider other set-aside categories.

Question 3

What types of contracts does the VA set aside for SDVOSBs?

Accepted Answer

The VA sets aside contracts across all its major acquisition categories for SDVOSBs, including healthcare services, IT and cybersecurity, facilities construction and maintenance, professional services, medical supplies and equipment, and research support. VA is one of the largest users of SDVOSB set-asides in the federal government, with billions in annual SDVOSB awards.

Question 4

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.

What is the VA Veterans First Contracting Program?

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