Contracting Goals for VOSBs? Breaking Down the DoD’s New Proposal

In this episode of FedBiz'5, host Sam Fields explores a proposed amendment by Rep. Derrick Van Orden that would direct the Department of Defense to establish annual contracting goals specifically for Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (VOSBs). While it hasn’t become law yet, this amendment holds promise for increased set-aside opportunities, greater visibility for VOSBs, and a fairer competitive landscape—if enacted.

Sam dives into what the proposal entails, why it could be a game-changer for veteran entrepreneurs, and how your business can get ready—and why staying active and prepared now could pay off later.

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Transcript

SAM FIELDS: Hello and welcome to FedBiz'5—your quick, five-minute deep dive into government contracting. I’m Sam Fields, and today we’re unpacking an important development out of the DoD that could change the game for veteran-owned small businesses. If you’re a current contractor or thinking of taking that first step, listen in—you’ll want to hear this.

So what’s new? In July 2025, Representative Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin introduced a new chapter in VOSB policy—an amendment directing the Department of Defense to set annual contracting goals specifically for Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (VOSBs). That’s a big deal because until now, VOSBs haven’t had explicit targets like SDVOSBs. This amendment could open doors to set-aside and even sole-source opportunities previously out of reach.

In essence, the DoD will now be required to consider VOSB representation as part of its small-business contracting strategy—a move that acknowledges the unique value veterans bring to national defense contracting.

Why does this matter?

This amendment addresses a longstanding gap. Veteran business owners, even without a disability designation, often struggle to compete for prime contracts. With annual goals, the DoD will have clear benchmarks to aim for. That means more visibility, more opportunities to compete, and a level playing field in the federal contracting arena.

For VOSBs, this could translate to being included more often in bidding pools, more invitations to bid on set-aside projects, and potentially sole-source awards in cases where no other capable providers exist. That’s game-changing for many of you.

Here’s what veteran-owned businesses can do to leverage this:

Get certified and listed in SAM if you haven’t already—it’s your ticket to eligibility for these opportunities.

Stay visible....Monitoring DoD solicitations and reaching out to agency small-business offices will help you stay in the loop.

Prepare for set-aside bidding....Ensure your capability statements, past performance, and team structure are polished and ready.

Partner wisely....If you're new to contracting, teaming up with experienced SDVOSBs or other primes could give you an edge.

Here’s some real-world context. Earlier this year, VOSBs gained access to DoD surplus property, like boats and equipment, through donation programs—but this amendment goes further—opening doors to actual contracts, not just property.

If passed and implemented, this amendment could mark a meaningful shift in the government's approach to veteran contracting. It complements existing programs, filling gaps, and empowering more veteran-owned businesses to step forward with confidence.

Thanks for listening to FedBiz Five—five minutes, countless opportunities.
This episode is brought to you by FedBiz Access. For over 24 years, we’ve helped small and medium-sized businesses win in the government marketplace. Call a FedBiz Specialist today at 844-628-8914 and reference code GOV CON READY—that’s G-O-V C-O-N R-E-A-D-Y—for 10% off products or services.