Set-Asides and Certifications – Leveraging Your Status in 2025

Federal contracting offers immense opportunities—but competition can be fierce. To stand out and gain a competitive edge, new and existing businesses must understand the power of set-aside programs and certifications. In 2025, leveraging these tools isn’t just smart—it’s strategic.

Why Certifications Matter in Federal Contracting

The U.S. federal government aims to award a percentage of its contracts to small and disadvantaged businesses each year. This goal creates specific “set-asides” for companies with recognized certifications, allowing them to compete in a smaller, less crowded pool. Here’s a breakdown of the most impactful certifications:

• 8(a) Business Development Program
  Designed for socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. Offers access to sole-source contracts and mentorship through the SBA.


• WOSB (Women-Owned Small Business)
  Helps women-owned businesses compete for contracts in industries where women are underrepresented. Includes access to both competitive and sole-source opportunities.


• HUBZone (Historically Underutilized Business Zone)
  Supports businesses in economically distressed areas. HUBZone-certified businesses get preferential consideration in contracting.


• SDVOSB (Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business)
  Reserved for businesses owned by service-disabled veterans. SDVOSBs are eligible for sole-source and set-aside contracts across various agencies, including the VA.

Real-World Wins: Set-Asides in Action

Set-aside programs have opened the doors to millions in contract awards. Here are a few examples:

• A WOSB IT consulting firm secured a $750,000 contract from the Department of Energy for cybersecurity services, leveraging their status in a sole-source negotiation.


• A HUBZone-certified construction company won multiple awards totaling over $3 million from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers by being the only qualified bidder in the zone.


• An SDVOSB logistics company secured a five-year, $2.1 million contract with the Department of Veterans Affairs, thanks to the SDVOSB sole-source rule.


• An 8(a) engineering firm partnered with a larger prime as a subcontractor through the SBA’s Mentor-Protégé Program, landing multiple projects totaling $5 million over three years.

Marketing Your Certification: Strategies That Work

Having a certification is only the first step. Marketing it effectively in your proposals and capability statements is key:

• Lead with Your Certification
  Always mention your certification(s) on the cover page of your proposals and prominently in your capability statement.


• Tailor Your Capability Statement
  Create different versions for each agency or industry focus. Highlight past performance and clearly identify how your status supports set-aside eligibility.


• Use the Right Platforms
  Make sure your profiles on SAM.gov and DSBS (Dynamic Small Business Search) are optimized and up-to-date with your certifications.


• Monitor Active Opportunities
  Use tools like SAM.gov and USAspending.gov to find solicitations specifically set aside for your group.


• Network and Educate Buyers
  Schedule meetings with small business specialists within target agencies. Many contracting officers are open to short capability briefings.

In 2025, set-aside programs remain one of the most powerful tools small businesses can use to win federal contracts. With the right certification and a smart marketing strategy, you can cut through the noise and connect directly with contracting officers who need your services.

CTA: Get certified, get seen. Maximize your set-aside eligibility now.

Need help getting certified or marketing your capabilities? Let GovPointe guide you through every step of the process—from registration to results.