Each Veterans Day, we pause to honor the courage, commitment, and sacrifice of the men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Their dedication to service continues long after their military careers end. Today, thousands of veterans are channeling their leadership and mission-driven mindset into entrepreneurship, building companies that strengthen both our economy and our communities.
To recognize that commitment, the federal government and many states give contracting preference to veteran-owned businesses. This isn’t just symbolic appreciation; it’s a strategic decision that helps veterans transition successfully into civilian life while strengthening public-sector supply chains with dependable, disciplined partners.
Why Veterans Receive Contracting Preference
Veterans bring more than credentials. They bring proven experience in leadership, operations, and accountability. These attributes align perfectly with the standards of performance and integrity required in government contracting.
The Veterans Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development Act of 1999 laid the foundation for the Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) programs. Federal agencies are encouraged to award at least 3 percent of all prime and subcontracting dollars to SDVOSBs each year. This target translates into billions of dollars in annual opportunity across industries.
These programs exist because the federal government recognizes that veteran entrepreneurs often face barriers when transitioning from service to civilian business ownership. Contracting preferences level the playing field by rewarding service while fostering economic inclusion and leadership continuity.
What Veterans Bring to the Marketplace
Veterans’ business success is not accidental. It’s built on transferable skills developed in high-stakes environments.
- Leadership and Accountability: Veterans know how to lead teams, manage resources, and deliver results.
- Adaptability: They thrive in uncertain and changing environments—a valuable trait in dynamic markets.
- Mission Focus: Veterans excel at goal-oriented execution and strategic planning.
- Integrity and Service: They bring trust, ethics, and a sense of purpose to every partnership.
These qualities don’t just make veterans good business owners; they make them reliable government partners. Veteran-owned businesses now represent more than 5 percent of all U.S. businesses, employing over 4 million Americans and generating billions in economic output each year.
Resources for Veteran Entrepreneurs
If you’re a veteran ready to expand or formalize your business, several targeted programs and certifications can help:
- U.S. Small Business Administration – Office of Veterans Business Development (OVBD):
https://www.sba.gov/veterans
Offers training, counseling, and funding opportunities, including the Boots to Business program. - VA Vets First Verification Program:
https://vetbiz.va.gov
Certifies Veteran-Owned and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses for VA contracting opportunities. - Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Program (SDVOSB):
https://www.sba.gov/federal-contracting/contracting-assistance-programs/service-disabled-veteran-owned-small-businesses-program - National Veteran-Owned Business Association (NaVOBA):
https://navoba.org
Helps veteran-owned companies connect with corporate and government buyers. - APEX Accelerators (formerly PTACs):
https://apexaccelerators.us
Delivers free, hands-on assistance to help small businesses identify, pursue, and win contracts.
Many states also offer Veteran Business Enterprise (VBE) or Service-Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (SDVBE) certifications that unlock additional contracting opportunities and marketing advantages.
From Service to Strategy
For veterans ready to grow, the first step is SAM.gov registration and defining the right NAICS codes for your business. From there, working with a local APEX Accelerator or Small Business Development Center (SBDC) can help align your operations with federal contracting expectations.
The discipline and leadership you developed in service are precisely the qualities that drive successful performance in procurement environments. The same commitment that got you through training and deployment can power your growth as a government contractor.
A Call to Celebrate and Support
This Veterans Day, we honor the men and women whose courage and sacrifice protect our freedoms and whose leadership continues to shape our economy. Every contract awarded to a veteran-owned business represents more than a transaction; it’s an investment in experience, reliability, and national strength.
If you’re a contracting officer, a prime contractor, or a small business seeking partners, make veteran-owned businesses part of your strategy. If you’re a veteran entrepreneur, leverage every resource available. You’ve already served your country with distinction; now it’s time to build your legacy in business.
Learn More:
Visit http://www.govconstrategygroup.com for guidance on certification, proposal strategy, and winning government contracts as a veteran entrepreneur.