Set-Aside Eligibility Checker
Set-aside programs are how small businesses beat large incumbents: contracts reserved exclusively for 8(a), HUBZone, woman-owned, and veteran-owned firms. Answer a few questions to see which programs you may qualify for — and exactly how to get certified.
Free tool · runs entirely in your browser — nothing you select is sent to a server.
Why set-asides matter so much
On an unrestricted federal solicitation you compete with everyone, including billion-dollar primes. On an SDVOSB set-aside, you compete only with other certified service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses — often a handful of bidders. 8(a) firms can even receive sole-source awards with no competition at all. For most small contractors, getting certified into every applicable program is the single highest-leverage business development step that exists.
Frequently asked questions
What is a set-aside contract?
A contract that only businesses in a specific program can bid on. The federal government aims to award 23% of prime contract dollars to small businesses, with sub-goals for 8(a)/SDB (5%), women-owned (5%), service-disabled veteran-owned (5%), and HUBZone (3%) firms. Set-asides dramatically shrink your competition.
Do I need to be certified to bid set-aside work?
It depends on the program. Plain small business set-asides use SAM.gov self-certification against your NAICS size standard. WOSB, SDVOSB/VOSB, HUBZone, and 8(a) all require formal (free) SBA certification before you can win those set-asides.
How long does SBA certification take?
WOSB and VetCert typically take a few weeks to a couple of months. HUBZone runs roughly 2–3 months. 8(a) is the most involved — commonly 3–6 months with detailed financial documentation. Start certification well before you need it for a bid.
Can I qualify for multiple programs at once?
Yes, and you should certify for every program you legitimately qualify for. A woman-owned, HUBZone-located small business can pursue small business, WOSB, and HUBZone set-asides — three separate opportunity streams.
Eligible? Get bid-ready next.
Build your capability statement with your certifications front and center, then let GovBidWriter turn your first RFP into a compliance matrix and draft proposal.