SDVBE Certification for Professional Services Companies
Complete guide to Service-Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise certification for professional services businesses — requirements, documents, corporate programs, and federal contracting opportunities.
Why SDVBE Certification Matters for Professional Services Companies
For businesses owned by veterans with service-connected disabilities.
For professional services businesses, SDVBE 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 SDVBE-certified suppliers in professional services.
Professional services is the fastest path to contracting for many diverse businesses. Here's why certification matters: **Low Barriers to Entry**: Unlike manufacturing or construction, professional services require expertise rather than equipment or facilities. **High Demand**: Every organization needs professional services - consulting, staffing, legal, accounting, marketing. **GSA Schedule Access**: Professional services are well-suited for GSA Schedule contracts, opening federal opportunities. **Corporate Spending**: Fortune 500 companies spend billions annually on professional services with supplier diversity goals. **Subcontracting Opportunities**: Large consulting firms (Big 4, Accenture, etc.) actively seek diverse subcontractors. Professional services certifications can unlock opportunities in virtually every industry vertical.
SDVBE Eligibility Requirements
Must be at least 51% owned by service-disabled veterans.
To qualify for SDVOSB certification: **Veteran Status:** - Must have served in the U.S. Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, Space Force) - Must have been honorably discharged **Service-Connected Disability:** - Must have a disability rating from the VA - Any disability percentage qualifies (1% to 100%) - The disability must be service-connected **Ownership Requirements:** - 51% owned and controlled by one or more service-disabled veterans - In the case of publicly traded businesses, 51% of stock owned by service-disabled veterans **Control Requirements:** - Service-disabled veteran(s) must control management and daily operations - Must hold the highest officer position - Must make long-term decisions for the business - Must control the business full-time
Required Documents for SDVBE
| 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 SDVBE as a Professional Services Business
- **Step 1: Register in SAM.gov**
- All federal contractors must be registered in SAM.gov.
- **Step 2: Gather VA Documentation**
- Obtain your disability rating letter and DD-214.
- **Step 3: Apply Through VetCert**
- Apply at veterans.certify.sba.gov (SBA now handles SDVOSB certification).
- **Step 4: Complete Application**
- Provide all required information about your veteran status and business.
- **Step 5: Upload Documents**
- Submit all required documentation through the portal.
- **Step 6: SBA Review**
- SBA reviews your application and may request additional information.
- **Step 7: Certification Decision**
- Decisions are typically made within 90 days.
Professional Services Corporate Programs Accepting SDVBE
These companies have professional services supplier diversity programs that accept SDVBE certification:
Apple Inc.
Apple is committed to increasing opportunity for diverse suppliers. We partner with businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities.
View program details →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 →Boeing
Boeing is the world's largest aerospace company and a leading manufacturer of commercial jetliners, defense systems, and space technology. Their Supplier Diversity program has been …
View program details →General Motors
GM has been a leader in supplier diversity for over 50 years. We are committed to increasing opportunities for diverse businesses in the automotive supply …
View program details →Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson has been a leader in supplier diversity for over 25 years. We believe diverse suppliers drive innovation in healthcare.
View program details →JPMorgan Chase
JPMorgan Chase is committed to building a diverse supply chain. We actively seek partnerships with minority, women, veteran, LGBTQ+, and disability-owned businesses.
View program details →Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin is the world's largest defense contractor with over $65 billion in annual revenue, primarily from U.S. government contracts. Their Supplier Diversity program actively …
View program details →Microsoft Corporation
Microsoft believes diversity drives innovation. Our supplier diversity program ensures certified diverse businesses have equitable access to procurement opportunities.
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 →Booz Allen Hamilton
Booz Allen Hamilton is a leading management and technology consulting firm serving government clients, particularly in defense and intelligence. With over $9 billion in revenue, …
View program details →CACI International
CACI International provides expertise and technology to government customers in intelligence, defense, and federal civilian markets. With over $6 billion in revenue primarily from government …
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 →General Dynamics
General Dynamics is a global aerospace and defense company with business segments including Aerospace (Gulfstream), Combat Systems, Information Technology, and Marine Systems (submarines and ships). …
View program details →IBM
IBM has been a pioneer in supplier diversity since 1968. We believe diverse suppliers drive innovation and strengthen our business.
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 …
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Take the Certification QuizGovernment Professional Services Opportunities
**Federal Opportunities** Professional services are needed across all federal agencies: - **GSA Professional Services Schedule**: Gateway to government-wide opportunities - **Agency-Specific BPAs**: Blanket Purchase Agreements for ongoing needs - **Staff Augmentation**: IT staffing, administrative support, technical assistance - **Consulting**: Management consulting, strategy, program evaluation **Key Contract Vehicles** - GSA MAS (Multiple Award Schedule) - OASIS (complex professional services) - Alliant 2 (IT services) - Agency-specific IDIQs **8(a) Advantage**: Professional services are ideal for 8(a) sole-source contracts up to $4.5M (or $7M for manufacturing).