VBE Certification for IT & Technology Companies
Complete guide to Veteran Business Enterprise certification for it & technology businesses — requirements, documents, corporate programs, and federal contracting opportunities.
Why VBE Certification Matters for IT & Technology Companies
For businesses that are at least 51% owned by one or more veterans.
For it & technology 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 it & technology.
Technology is experiencing unprecedented demand for diverse suppliers. Here's why certification matters: **Federal IT Modernization**: The government is investing billions in cloud migration, cybersecurity, and digital services. Small business goals create massive opportunities for certified tech firms. **Corporate Digital Transformation**: Fortune 500 companies are actively seeking diverse tech vendors to meet their supplier diversity commitments. **Subcontracting Requirements**: Large IT prime contractors (Accenture, Deloitte, SAIC) have diversity goals they must meet on federal contracts. **Innovation Sourcing**: Many corporations specifically seek diverse tech startups for innovation and new capabilities. Federal IT spending exceeds $100 billion annually, with significant portions targeted to small and 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 IT & Technology 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.
IT & Technology Corporate Programs Accepting VBE
These companies have it & technology supplier diversity programs that accept VBE certification:
Amazon
Amazon Supplier Diversity helps us build a more inclusive supply chain by partnering with businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with …
View program details →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 →Google (Alphabet Inc.)
Google is committed to building a diverse supply chain that reflects the communities we serve. We actively seek partnerships with certified diverse businesses.
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 →McKesson
McKesson is a Fortune 8 healthcare company providing pharmaceuticals and medical supplies distribution, healthcare IT, and care management. They serve government healthcare programs including VA …
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 →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 →BAE Systems
BAE Systems is a British multinational defense company with significant U.S. operations. Their U.S. subsidiary is a major defense contractor serving all military branches and …
View program details →Bank of America
Bank of America has spent over $2 billion annually with diverse suppliers. We invest in supplier development and mentorship.
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 …
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Take the Certification QuizGovernment IT & Technology Opportunities
**Federal IT Opportunities** Key agencies buying technology: - **Department of Defense (DoD)**: Largest IT buyer, cybersecurity, software development - **Department of Homeland Security (DHS)**: Border technology, cybersecurity - **Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)**: Healthcare IT, EHR systems - **Civilian agencies**: Cloud services, modernization projects **Contract Vehicles** - GSA IT Schedule 70 (now MAS) - CIO-SP3/SP4 (small business specific) - Agency-specific BPAs and IDIQs - 8(a) STARS III **Compliance Requirements**: FedRAMP for cloud, CMMC for defense, various security clearance requirements.