Overview
Federal certifications unlock set-aside contracts, sole-source awards, and preferred bidder status worth billions annually. Texas veteran-owned businesses should pursue multiple certifications to maximize contracting eligibility.
Key Programs & Resources
SDVOSB — Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business
The most valuable federal certification for veteran business owners. SDVOSB status entitles businesses to compete for sole-source contracts up to $4.5M without competition.
VOSB — Veteran-Owned Small Business
VOSB certification provides access to set-aside competitions for non-service-disabled veterans.
8(a) Business Development Program
The SBA 8(a) program provides small disadvantaged businesses with set-aside contracts, sole-source awards up to $4.5M, and nine years of business development support.
HUBZone Certification
Businesses located in Historically Underutilized Business Zones receive 10% price preference in competitive contract awards.
Texas HUB — Historically Underutilized Business
The Texas Comptroller's HUB program certifies minority, woman, and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses for Texas state contract preferences.
DVB — Disabled Veteran Business
In Texas, this is captured under the state HUB certification for service-disabled veterans.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to access the programs outlined above. The VBOC Houston at the University of Houston can assist with most of these steps at no cost — and HRVCC staff can connect you directly.
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Obtain your DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty)
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If service-disabled: obtain VA Rating Decision letter confirming service-connected disability rating
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Register your business in SAM.gov — free, required for all federal contracts
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Obtain a DUNS/UEI number through SAM.gov registration
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Complete SDVOSB certification application at veterans.certify.sba.gov
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Gather supporting documents: business ownership proof, operating agreement/bylaws, service records
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Apply for Texas HUB certification at comptroller.texas.gov if pursuing state contracts
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Consider 8(a) or HUBZone if you qualify — stack certifications to maximize bid eligibility
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Attend SBA certification workshops through VBOC Houston (free)
How HRVCC Helps Members Access These Resources
HRVCC exists to help veteran business owners in Houston navigate exactly the programs and resources described on this page. Membership isn't just a directory listing — it's access to a community that has already worked through these processes and is ready to share what they know.
- HRVCC members get access to our full resource library — guides like this one, plus templates, checklists, and walkthroughs for every major veteran business program
- HRVCC hosts certification workshops and procurement matchmaking events throughout the year, so you can learn alongside fellow veteran entrepreneurs
- Fellow members share their experiences navigating these programs — real, practical advice from people who've been through the same process
- HRVCC staff can connect you directly with VBOC Houston, Houston PTAC at HCC, and Texas Veterans Commission counselors — warm introductions, not cold calls
- Your member portal gives you on-demand access to all HRVCC guides, templates, event recordings, and resources — available any time you need them
Additional Houston-Area Veteran Business Resources
- Texas Veterans Commission — texasveterans.gov — state claims, benefits, and business counseling
- SBA VBOC Houston at the University of Houston SBDC — 713-752-8444
- SCORE Houston with veteran mentors — houston.score.org
- Lone Star Veterans Association — Houston veteran community and networking
- American GI Forum of Texas — advocacy and business support for Hispanic veterans
- NaVOBA — National Veteran-Owned Business Association — corporate supplier diversity certification
- Houston Veteran Business Council — local veteran business advocacy and networking
- Houston PTAC at HCC SBDC — free federal contracting assistance for veteran businesses