For Veterans who are small business owners, there are special ways to increase visibility and access valuable resources, including obtaining Service-Disabled Veteran-owned status within Virginia's SWaM (Small, Women-owned, and Minority-owned) vendor database. This blog post explores how Veterans can take advantage of this opportunity, as well as the steps involved in certification and designation.
What is Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Status in the SWaM Program?
Service-Disabled Veteran-owned status is a designation within the SWaM vendor database for businesses owned by Veterans who are certified as service-disabled. It’s not a separate certification but a recognized designation that allows these businesses to stand out in the database and pursue certain government contracting opportunities. The goal is to connect Veteran-owned businesses with resources and networking options that benefit small, women-owned, and minority-owned businesses in Virginia.
How to Apply for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Status
To receive this designation, Veterans must first complete a two-step process that includes certification and registration.
Step 1: Obtain Eligibility Certification from the Virginia Department of Veteran Services (DVS)
Veterans seeking Service-Disabled Veteran status must first receive an eligibility certificate from the DVS.
This certification confirms the Veteran's status as a service-disabled individual and is necessary before pursuing SWaM designation.
Veterans can contact the DVS for more information or to apply by calling (804) 786-0286 or visiting www.dvs.virginia.gov.
Step 2: Apply for SWaM Certification with the Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity (SBSD)
After receiving eligibility certification from DVS, Veterans can apply for small, women-owned, or minority-owned (SWaM) certification with the SBSD.
Veterans can apply for SWaM certification either before or after obtaining their eligibility certificate from DVS, giving them flexibility in the process.
Both services are free of charge—an excellent benefit for those looking to get started without the burden of additional fees.
Benefits of the Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Designation
For Veteran-owned businesses, this designation within the SWaM database provides:
Increased Visibility: A designation as a Service-Disabled Veteran-owned business may enhance opportunities for government contracting and help your business stand out within the SWaM vendor database.
Support & Networking: The designation connects Veteran business owners with a network of resources aimed at supporting small and minority-owned businesses across Virginia.
Access to Free Certification Services: Both the eligibility certification from DVS and the SWaM certification are available at no charge, making it a valuable option for Veterans starting out or looking to expand their businesses.
Why This Matters
Service-disabled Veterans have dedicated their lives to serving our country. By supporting Veteran-owned businesses, consumers and other businesses can honor that service and contribute to the success of Veterans in their post-military careers. This designation helps Veteran business owners not only receive well-deserved recognition but also gain access to contracting and networking opportunities that may otherwise be challenging to secure.
Ready to Apply?
If you’re a service-disabled Veteran interested in boosting your business’s visibility, reach out to the Virginia Department of Veteran Services (DVS) at (804) 786-0286 or visit their website to get started. By completing this two-step process, your business can receive the Service-Disabled Veteran-owned designation in the SWaM vendor database, opening doors to greater support, resources, and recognition.
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