EDWOSB

Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business

Certified by Small Business Administration (SBA)

National Women Business Enterprise (WBE)
Cost Free
Processing Time 30-90 days
Renewal Annual

The Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB) certification provides access to federal contracts in industries where women are substantially underrepresented. EDWOSB contracts are available in more industry categories than WOSB-only set-asides, making this an important certification for women entrepreneurs who meet the economic disadvantage criteria.

Benefits of EDWOSB Certification

Expanded Contract Access:

  • Access to EDWOSB set-aside contracts in underrepresented industries
  • More contract opportunities than WOSB-only
  • Compete in both EDWOSB and WOSB set-asides

Federal Contracting:

  • Part of the 5% WOSB federal contracting goal
  • Additional sole-source opportunities

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for EDWOSB certification:

Must meet all WOSB requirements, plus:

Economic Disadvantage Requirements:

  • Personal net worth under $850,000 (excluding primary residence and business equity)
  • Average adjusted gross income under $400,000 over the past 3 years
  • Fair market value of assets under $6.5 million

The economically disadvantaged woman owner must:

  • Own at least 51% of the business
  • Control management and daily operations

Required Documents

All WOSB documents, plus:

Economic Disadvantage Documents:

  • Personal financial statement showing net worth
  • Personal tax returns (3 years) showing adjusted gross income
  • Documentation of all assets and liabilities

Application Process

Step 1: Ensure WOSB Eligibility Meet all WOSB requirements first.

Step 2: Gather Economic Documentation Prepare personal financial statements, tax returns showing AGI.

Step 3: Apply via certify.sba.gov Complete EDWOSB application with economic disadvantage documentation.

Step 4: Submit Documents Upload all required personal and business documents.

Step 5: Await Decision SBA reviews and issues decision.

Tips for a Successful Application

  • Calculate net worth carefully, excluding primary residence and business equity
  • Average your AGI over 3 years
  • If you exceed thresholds, you can still apply for WOSB
  • Economic status is reviewed annually

Renewal Process

EDWOSB certification must be recertified annually. Economic disadvantage status is reviewed each year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between WOSB and EDWOSB?

EDWOSB adds economic disadvantage requirements (net worth and income limits) and provides access to additional set-aside categories.

Is EDWOSB certification free?

Yes, SBA EDWOSB certification is completely free.

What if I grow out of EDWOSB eligibility?

You can transition to WOSB-only status while maintaining access to WOSB set-asides.