Set-aside certifications: 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, WOSB

A set-aside restricts a solicitation to firms with a specific certification. The certification is free to obtain from the SBA; the cost is time and documentation.

8(a) Business Development

For small businesses at least 51% owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged US citizens. Nine-year programme; sole-source awards are possible below a threshold. Expect several months to certify.

HUBZone

For firms whose principal office is in a Historically Underutilized Business Zone and where at least 35% of employees live in a HUBZone. Location-based, so check the SBA map before applying.

SDVOSB and VOSB

Service-disabled veteran-owned and veteran-owned small businesses. Certification moved to the SBA in 2023. The Department of Veterans Affairs sets aside a large share of its buying for these firms.

WOSB and EDWOSB

Women-owned (and economically disadvantaged women-owned) small businesses, eligible for set-asides in industries where women are under-represented.

Reading set-asides on a notice

On SAM.gov the field is "Set Aside". On RFPFinder each listing shows a badge (SB, 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, WOSB) and the set-aside filter narrows any list to the ones you qualify for.

Certification	Who	Typical time
8(a)	Disadvantaged owners	Months
HUBZone	Location + 35% HUBZone staff	Weeks to months
SDVOSB	Service-disabled veteran owners	Weeks to months
WOSB	Women owners	Weeks