Small business set-asides: 8(a), HUBZone, WOSB, EDWOSB and SDVOSB
Which small business set-asides do I qualify for, and how do I certify?
Each program starts with the same base: a small business under SBA size standards that is at least 51% owned and controlled by the qualifying group. 8(a) is for socially and economically disadvantaged owners. HUBZone depends on where your office and employees are. WOSB is for women owners. EDWOSB adds economic limits. SDVOSB is for service-disabled veterans. You apply for all of them at certifications.sba.gov.
Last reviewed October 12, 2026.
Who qualifies for each program
From SBA’s program pages on sba.gov, checked October 2026.
- 8(a) Business Development
- At least 51% owned and controlled by U.S. citizens who are socially and economically disadvantaged. Owners need a personal net worth of $850,000 or less, adjusted gross income of $400,000 or less and assets of $6.5 million or less. The firm must show good character and potential for success, such as two years in business. The program lasts up to nine years and each person can take part once.
- HUBZone
- At least 51% owned and controlled by U.S. citizens, a Community Development Corporation, an agricultural cooperative, an Alaska Native corporation, a Native Hawaiian organization or an Indian tribe. The principal office must sit in a HUBZone and at least 35% of employees must live in one. Check both on SBA’s HUBZone map. Certified firms get a 10% price evaluation preference in full and open competitions. Recertification comes every three years.
- WOSB
- At least 51% owned and controlled by women who are U.S. citizens. Women must manage day-to-day operations and make long-term decisions.
- EDWOSB
- Meets the WOSB test. Each owning woman also needs a personal net worth under $850,000, adjusted gross income of $400,000 or less averaged over three years and personal assets of $6.5 million or less.
- SDVOSB
- At least 51% owned and controlled by veterans whom the VA rates as service-disabled. SBA has run this certification since January 1, 2023. Firms need it to compete for SDVOSB sole-source and set-aside contracts.
How to certify
Find your primary NAICS codes
Your size is measured against the SBA size standard for each code.
Register in SAM.gov
Every program requires an active registration. How the UEI and SAM.gov process works.
Apply at certifications.sba.gov
Create an account and use the eligibility check before you start the full application. Your local SBA District Office or an APEX Accelerator counselor can help.
Find the set-asides you qualify for
Quillify filters open contracts by set-aside, including 8(a), HUBZone, WOSB, EDWOSB, SDVOSB and their sole-source versions. Add a NAICS filter and you see the solicitations reserved for firms like yours. Put the certification on your capability statement once you have it.
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