Guides

Federal contracting guides for veteran-owned trade contractors

Plain answers for SDVOSB and VOSB electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and construction firms. Every rule is linked to the FAR, SBA, SAM.gov, or U.S. Code.

How to win your first federal contract as an SDVOSB

The steps a service-disabled veteran-owned trade contractor takes to win a first federal contract: SAM registration, SBA certification, finding set-asides, and bidding. Every rule linked to the FAR or SBA.

VetCert approved: what to do next

You are SBA certified as an SDVOSB or VOSB. Here is what certification lets you bid on, and the next steps to get in front of real federal work.

How to price your first federal bid as a trade contractor

The federal rules that change how a trade contractor prices a first bid: sealed bidding, prevailing wages, bonds, and limits on subcontracting. Linked to the FAR and SBA.

SDVOSB vs VOSB set-asides: who can bid on what

The difference between service-disabled veteran-owned (SDVOSB) and veteran-owned (VOSB) set-asides, governmentwide and at the VA, with the FAR, SBA, and U.S. Code linked.

How to find veteran set-aside bids on SAM.gov

How to search SAM.gov Contract Opportunities for SDVOSB and VOSB set-aside bids that fit your trade, and what an account adds.

Limitations on subcontracting for trade contractors on set-aside work

How much of a set-aside construction job a veteran-owned trade contractor can sub out: the 75% and 85% limits, what counts, similarly situated subs, and penalties. Linked to FAR 52.219-14 and 13 CFR 125.6.