Veterans Day highlights the service of military veterans, and it is a fitting time for veteran business owners in Texas to review the government programs specifically designed to support veteran entrepreneurship. From federal set-aside contracts to state certifications and lending programs, veteran-owned businesses in Texas have access to a strong set of resources.
Federal Veteran Business Programs
SDVOSB Certification
The Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) program provides access to sole-source and set-aside federal contracts. The federal government has a goal of awarding 3% of all federal contract dollars to SDVOSBs. Certification is administered through the SBA.
VOSB Certification
Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) certification through the SBA provides recognition and may improve competitiveness for government contracts. While VOSB does not have the same set-aside provisions as SDVOSB, it provides visibility in federal procurement searches.
SBA Veteran Lending
Veterans may access favorable SBA lending terms, including reduced fees on SBA 7(a) loans and access to the SBA Veterans Advantage program. SBA Express loans up to $500,000 are also available with faster processing.
Boots to Business
The SBA's Boots to Business program provides entrepreneurship training for transitioning service members. The program is offered on military installations and includes online follow-up training.
State Programs
Texas HUB Certification
Service-disabled veterans qualify for Texas HUB certification, which provides access to state procurement goals and subcontracting opportunities. HUB certification is free through the Texas Comptroller.
Texas Veterans Commission
The Texas Veterans Commission provides business assistance, referrals, and support for veteran entrepreneurs. The Commission connects veterans with SBDCs, SCORE mentors, and other business resources.
Skills Development Fund
Veteran-owned businesses hiring transitioning service members or other veterans can access Skills Development Fund training grants to build workforce skills.
Veteran-Focused Resources
- V-WISE: SBA-funded training program for women veterans and military spouses interested in entrepreneurship.
- SCORE Veteran Mentoring: SCORE provides veteran-specific mentoring through volunteer mentors with military backgrounds.
- VBOC (Veteran Business Outreach Center): SBA-funded centers providing counseling and training for veteran entrepreneurs.
- EBV (Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans): Free university-based training programs for veterans with service-connected disabilities.
Procurement Opportunities
- Federal set-asides: SDVOSB sole-source contracts up to $4 million (manufacturing) or $4 million (other).
- VA procurement: The VA actively seeks SDVOSB and VOSB contractors.
- State procurement: HUB-certified veteran businesses access state contract goals.
- City/county programs: Many Texas cities include veteran preferences in local procurement.
Veterans Day Action Steps
- Apply for SDVOSB or VOSB: Certification opens federal procurement opportunities.
- Get HUB certified: Free Texas state certification for eligible veterans.
- Contact your VBOC: Get free counseling and training referrals.
- Review SBA lending: Check for veteran-specific fee waivers and advantages.
- Connect with SCORE: Find a mentor with military or industry experience.
Find Programs That May Fit Your Business
Veteran-owned businesses in Texas may qualify for veteran-specific and general business programs. Our screening report matches your business against all applicable programs. Start your free screening →