WOSB (Women-Owned Small Business)

Full Definition

A Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) is a small business that is at least 51 percent unconditionally and directly owned and controlled in both management and daily operations by one or more women who are U.S. citizens. The WOSB Federal Contracting Program, authorized by the Small Business Act and implemented through FAR Subpart 19.15, provides both set-aside and sole-source contracting opportunities in NAICS codes where the SBA has determined that women-owned businesses are substantially underrepresented or underrepresented. WOSB set-asides and sole-source awards up to $4.5 million for services and $7 million for manufacturing are available in designated industries. Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Businesses (EDWOSBs) can access additional set-aside opportunities in a broader set of NAICS codes. Certification is administered through the SBA's certification portal.

Why It Matters

The federal government has a statutory goal of awarding 5 percent of all prime contract dollars to women-owned small businesses, making WOSB certification a valuable competitive advantage. WOSB set-asides are limited to specific NAICS codes designated by the SBA, so check whether your primary NAICS codes are eligible before applying. The certification process through the SBA requires documentation of ownership including operating agreements, stock certificates, tax returns, and proof of management control. Combined with other certifications such as 8(a) or SDVOSB, WOSB status multiplies your eligible set-aside categories. Small businesses should also explore EDWOSB certification which opens additional NAICS codes; qualification is based on the owner's personal net worth not exceeding $750,000 excluding the business and primary residence, with adjusted gross income below $350,000 averaged over three years.

Example

Related Terms