Grants & Funding for Veteran-Owned Businesses
Veterans bring discipline and leadership to entrepreneurship, and the federal government backs that with dedicated contracting set-asides, training, and financing. Service-disabled veterans have access to even stronger programs.
As with most business funding, the largest opportunities for veterans are federal contract set-asides and government-backed loans rather than open cash grants. Combining a veteran certification with free mentoring and an SBA loan is usually the most effective path.
Here are the core programs, how to get verified, and the veteran-focused listings currently in our database.
Key Programs to Know
Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) / VOSB Certification
U.S. Small Business Administration
Certified veteran-owned firms can compete for set-aside and sole-source federal contracts. Certification moved to the SBA's Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert) program and is free.
Visit official program page →Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) Program
U.S. Small Business Administration
Regional centers providing free business plan development, mentoring, and the 'Boots to Business' entrepreneurship training for transitioning service members and spouses.
Visit official program page →SBA Loans (7(a), 504, Microloan)
U.S. Small Business Administration
Government-backed financing veterans use to start, buy, or expand a business, often with favorable terms.
Visit official program page →How to Get Verified as a Veteran-Owned Business
- 1
Confirm the business is at least 51% owned and controlled by one or more veterans (or service-disabled veterans for SDVOSB).
- 2
Have your DD-214 or other proof of veteran status and, for SDVOSB, VA documentation of a service-connected disability.
- 3
Apply for free certification through the SBA's VetCert system.
- 4
Register in SAM.gov to bid on veteran set-aside contracts.
- 5
Connect with your regional VBOC for free help preparing applications.
Insider Tips
- ✓Transitioning out of service? Take the free 'Boots to Business' course before you launch.
- ✓SDVOSB status unlocks the strongest contracting advantages — get the VA disability documentation in order early.
- ✓Pair certification with an SBA loan and VBOC mentoring rather than relying on grants alone.
Veteran-Owned Businesses: Opportunities in Our Database
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the VA give grants to start a business?
The VA does not generally issue cash grants to start a for-profit business. Veteran support comes mainly through SBA certification and contracting set-asides, SBA-backed loans, and free VBOC training. Some states and private foundations do offer veteran business grants.
Is veteran business certification free?
Yes. Certifying as a VOSB or SDVOSB through the SBA's VetCert program is free. Be wary of services that charge a required fee to certify you.
What's the difference between VOSB and SDVOSB?
VOSB is veteran-owned; SDVOSB adds a service-connected disability rating from the VA. SDVOSB firms qualify for additional sole-source and set-aside contracting opportunities.
Explore more funding
GrantPlain is an independent directory and is not affiliated with any government agency. Always confirm eligibility and certification requirements on the official program pages linked above. Government grant and certification programs never charge a fee to apply.