VBE Certification for Construction & Trades Companies
Complete guide to Veteran Business Enterprise certification for construction & trades businesses — requirements, documents, corporate programs, and federal contracting opportunities.
Why VBE Certification Matters for Construction & Trades Companies
For businesses that are at least 51% owned by one or more veterans.
For construction & trades businesses, VBE certification opens doors to corporate supplier diversity programs and federal contracting opportunities specifically targeting this sector. Many Fortune 500 companies and government agencies have dedicated spending goals for VBE-certified suppliers in construction & trades.
Construction is one of the most certification-driven industries. Here's why it matters: **Federal Requirements**: The Department of Transportation requires state DOTs to award a percentage of federally-funded contracts to Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs). This creates billions in set-aside opportunities annually. **Tier 1 Subcontracting**: Major general contractors like Turner, Skanska, and Gilbane have aggressive diversity goals. They actively seek certified diverse subcontractors to meet their contractual obligations on large projects. **Bonding Advantages**: Many certification programs offer bonding assistance and surety support, helping smaller contractors qualify for larger projects. **State and Local Set-Asides**: Most states have MBE/WBE goals for public construction projects, creating additional opportunities beyond federal contracts. The construction industry awarded over $45 billion to diverse contractors in the last fiscal year, making it one of the largest opportunity areas for certified diverse businesses.
VBE Eligibility Requirements
Must be at least 51% owned by veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces.
To qualify for NaVOBA VBE certification: **Veteran Status:** - Must have served in the U.S. Armed Forces - Honorable discharge required - No disability requirement (unlike SDVOSB) **Ownership Requirements:** - 51% owned by one or more veterans - Veterans must be U.S. citizens **Control Requirements:** - Veteran owner(s) must control business operations - Must make day-to-day management decisions - Must have highest officer position
Required Documents for VBE
| Document | Status | How to Obtain |
|---|---|---|
| Government-Issued Photo ID | Required | If expired, visit your local DMV or apply for passport renewal at usps.com or travel.state.gov. |
| Business Tax Returns (3 Years) | Required | Request copies from your accountant or download from IRS.gov using Form 4506-T. |
| Organizational Chart | Required | Create using tools like Lucidchart, Microsoft Visio, or PowerPoint. |
| Affidavit of Ownership | Required | Each certifying body provides their own form. Download from their website or request. |
| Operating Agreement or Bylaws | Required | Draft with an attorney or use a legal template service. Must reflect current ownership accurately. |
| DD-214 (Military Discharge Papers) | Required | Request from the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) at archives.gov/veterans or eVetRecs. |
| Existing Certification Copies | Recommended | From your certification files or download from the certifying body's portal. |
| Bank Statements (6-12 Months) | Recommended | Download from your online banking portal or request from your bank. |
| Certificate of Good Standing | Recommended | Request from your state's Secretary of State office. Most states offer instant online certificates. |
How to Apply for VBE as a Construction & Trades Business
- **Step 1: Create NaVOBA Account**
- Register at navoba.org to begin the application.
- **Step 2: Complete Application**
- Provide all business and veteran information.
- **Step 3: Upload Documentation**
- Submit DD-214 and business documents.
- **Step 4: Pay Fee**
- Application fees typically $400-$700.
- **Step 5: Review & Verification**
- NaVOBA reviews and may request additional information.
- **Step 6: Certification Decision**
- Decisions typically within 30-60 days.
Construction & Trades Corporate Programs Accepting VBE
These companies have construction & trades supplier diversity programs that accept VBE certification:
AT&T Inc.
AT&T has been a pioneer in supplier diversity since 1968. We are committed to ensuring diverse businesses have access to opportunities.
View program details →U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
The VA is the second-largest federal agency and has a special mission to support veteran-owned businesses. Under the Veterans First Contracting Program, VA gives priority …
View program details →AECOM
AECOM is a global infrastructure consulting firm with significant government contracts in transportation, facilities, environmental, and construction management. Their supplier diversity program is recognized as …
View program details →Chevron Corporation
Chevron values supplier diversity as essential to our business success. We seek partnerships with certified diverse businesses across our operations.
View program details →Comcast Corporation
Comcast NBCUniversal is committed to building a diverse supply chain that reflects our commitment to equity and inclusion.
View program details →ExxonMobil
ExxonMobil is committed to creating a diverse supply chain that supports our global operations.
View program details →Fluor Corporation
Fluor is one of the world's largest engineering, procurement, and construction companies with major government contracts in energy, infrastructure, and defense sectors. Their supplier diversity …
View program details →Jacobs
Jacobs is a global leader in engineering, technical, and construction services with significant government contracts in infrastructure, environmental, and defense sectors. Their supplier diversity program …
View program details →KBR
KBR delivers science, technology, and engineering solutions to governments and companies around the world. With major contracts in defense logistics, government services, and technology, they …
View program details →Parsons Corporation
Parsons is a technology-driven engineering and construction firm with significant government contracts in defense, intelligence, and critical infrastructure. Their small business program focuses on developing …
View program details →The Home Depot
The Home Depot is committed to diverse supplier development. We invest in building long-term relationships with certified diverse businesses.
View program details →Verizon Communications
Verizon is committed to supplier diversity as a core business strategy. We actively seek partnerships with certified diverse businesses.
View program details →Need Help Getting VBE Certified?
Our CertifyAll service handles your entire VBE application — documents, forms, and submission — for a flat $399 fee.
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Take the Certification QuizGovernment Construction & Trades Opportunities
**Federal Opportunities** The federal government is the largest buyer of construction services. Key agencies include: - **Department of Transportation (DOT)**: Manages the DBE program for highway, transit, and airport construction - **Army Corps of Engineers**: Billions in civil works, military construction - **General Services Administration (GSA)**: Federal building construction and renovation - **Department of Defense**: Military base construction worldwide **How to Access**: Register in SAM.gov, get your NAICS codes certified, and monitor opportunities on SAM.gov and agency-specific portals. **State and Local** Every state has a transportation department with DBE requirements. Many also have state-funded MBE/WBE programs for building construction and public works.