Women-Owned Small Businesses (WOSB) and Set-Asides Present New Opportunities in 2025

The Small Business Administration (SBA) is expanding efforts to support Women-Owned Small Businesses (WOSBs) by increasing set-aside opportunities in federal contracting. With new initiatives and policy changes in 2025, WOSBs have greater access to government contracts, making it an ideal time for women entrepreneurs to explore federal procurement.

Latest WOSB Certification Requirements and Changes

To compete for WOSB set-aside contracts, businesses must meet updated certification requirements. Key changes include:

• Mandatory SBA Certification: Self-certification is no longer permitted for set-aside contracts; businesses must be certified through the SBA or a third-party certifier.


• Eligibility Criteria: At least 51% of the business must be owned and controlled by women who are U.S. citizens.


• Economic Disadvantage Criteria: For Economically Disadvantaged WOSB (EDWOSB) certification, net worth and income thresholds apply.


• Industry-Specific Opportunities: WOSB and EDWOSB set-asides are designated for industries where women have been historically underrepresented.


• Certification Renewal: Businesses must maintain compliance and recertify periodically to retain eligibility.

For detailed certification steps, visit SBA Certify.

Industries Where Women-Owned Businesses Have a Competitive Edge

Certain industries present strong federal contracting opportunities for WOSBs. These include:

• Professional Services: IT consulting, cybersecurity, and financial management services.


• Healthcare: Medical supplies, healthcare staffing, and wellness services.


• Construction & Engineering: Infrastructure projects, environmental services, and disaster response.


• Manufacturing: Defense contracting, industrial equipment, and personal protective equipment (PPE).


• Logistics & Transportation: Freight management, supply chain solutions, and federal fleet maintenance.

How to Position Your WOSB for Government Contract Success

To maximize WOSB federal contracting success, consider these strategies:

• Register on SAM.gov: Ensure your business profile is complete and updated on SAM.gov.


• Leverage SBA Resources: Take advantage of SBA’s training programs and matchmaking events.


• Partner with Other Contractors: Consider joint ventures or subcontracting opportunities with established federal vendors.


• Monitor Procurement Forecasts: Use tools like USAspending.gov and GSA’s Forecast Tool to identify upcoming opportunities.


• Network at Federal Contracting Events: Attend industry events and SBA-hosted conferences to connect with contracting officers.

With expanded WOSB set-asides and policy updates, 2025 presents significant federal contracting opportunities for women-owned businesses. By obtaining certification, targeting high-demand industries, and leveraging available resources, WOSBs can successfully navigate the federal procurement landscape.

For additional resources, visit SAM.gov and USAspending.gov.