VBE Certification for Printing & Packaging Companies
Complete guide to Veteran Business Enterprise certification for printing & packaging businesses — requirements, documents, corporate programs, and federal contracting opportunities.
Why VBE Certification Matters for Printing & Packaging Companies
For businesses that are at least 51% owned by one or more veterans.
For printing & packaging 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 printing & packaging.
Printing and packaging offers steady, relationship-driven opportunities for diverse suppliers. Here's why certification matters: **Corporate Procurement Goals**: Studies show that companies allocating 20% or more of spending to diverse suppliers report 10-15% higher annual sales. This gives procurement managers a strong incentive to shift printing and packaging spend to certified diverse suppliers. **Xerox Alliance Program**: Xerox, a global leader in managed print services, operates a Supplier Connection Program that proactively identifies, builds relationships with, and procures goods and services from certified diverse businesses. Their Tier II program also encourages Xerox's own suppliers to subcontract to diverse firms. **Packaging Industry Leaders**: Companies like Graphic Packaging and WestRock (now Smurfit WestRock) have dedicated supplier diversity initiatives, seeking diverse suppliers across packaging materials, printing services, and logistics. **Every Company Prints**: Marketing collateral, product packaging, labels, business forms, direct mail, signage, and branded merchandise—every corporation has ongoing printing needs. These are recurring purchases that build long-term relationships. **Government Printing Office (GPO)**: The U.S. Government Publishing Office contracts with private sector printers for a significant portion of government printing needs, creating additional opportunities for certified diverse print companies. **Digital Transformation**: As printing evolves toward variable data printing, wide-format, and specialty applications, diverse suppliers can differentiate through technology adoption and niche capabilities.
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 Printing & Packaging 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.
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 Printing & Packaging Opportunities
**Federal Opportunities** Key agencies and programs for printing and packaging: - **U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO)**: Contracts with private sector printers for government publications, forms, and materials - **Department of Defense (DoD)**: Military publications, training materials, packaging for defense logistics - **General Services Administration (GSA)**: Government-wide printing and publication services - **Department of Health & Human Services (HHS)**: Public health materials, Medicare publications **Key Contract Vehicles** - GPO Term Contracts (multi-year printing agreements) - GSA MAS for printing and publications services - Agency-specific printing BPAs - 8(a) sole-source contracts for printing services **Categories of Government Printing** - Forms and publications - Direct mail and outreach materials - Training manuals and guides - Signage and wayfinding - Packaging for military and government supplies - Variable data printing (personalized mailings) - Large-format printing (posters, banners) **State and Local** State agencies, school districts, and municipalities all contract for printing services. Many have diverse supplier preferences and set-aside programs.