XL EagleWOSB (Women-Owned Small Business)
WOSB stands for Women-Owned Small Business. A Women-Owned Small Business is a small business that is at least 51 percent unconditionally and directly owned and controlled by one or more women who are U.S. citizens. Women must manage day-to-day operations and make long-term decisions.
Under the Women-Owned Small Business Federal Contracting Program, contracting officers can set aside contracts for WOSBs in industries where women-owned firms are underrepresented, identified by NAICS code. Since July 2020, firms must be certified by SBA or an SBA-approved third party to compete for these set-asides. Self-certification no longer works.
Why it matters to a small contractor
If a woman truly runs your business, WOSB certification can open set-asides in your NAICS code. Check SBA's list of eligible NAICS codes first, because WOSB set-asides only apply in certain industries.
Example
A woman who owns a commercial cleaning company confirms janitorial services is on SBA's eligible WOSB industry list, gets certified, and starts seeing WOSB set-aside notices in her area.
WOSB: common questions
Can my husband and I each own 50 percent?
No. The woman or women must own at least 51 percent and control the business. A 50/50 split does not qualify.
What is the difference between WOSB and EDWOSB?
EDWOSB adds economic disadvantage limits on the owner's net worth, income and assets. EDWOSBs can compete for both WOSB and EDWOSB set-asides.
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