Get certified as a veteran-owned business

If you’re a Veteran and you own or operate a construction business in Washington state, don’t wait to apply for Veteran-Owned Certification.

Later this year, WSDOT plans to announce a five-percent enforceable goal for state-funded projects. Once this rule is enacted, prime contractors will need to award at least 5% of their work to veteran-owned businesses. Interested in learning more? Here’s everything you need to know:

What is Veteran-Owned Certification?

Veteran-Owned Certification is a new certification under WSDOT’s Diversity Roadmap for State Funded Contracts. It’s FREE of charge and awarded to all veteran-owned businesses that apply through Washington Electronic Business Solutions (WEBS) and The Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs.

Who can apply for Veteran-Owned certification?

Any Washington-based military veteran who was honorably discharged (DD-214) and owns at least 51% of their business can apply for this distinction. In addition, your business must be registered as a Washington state enterprise.

How do I get started?

Applying for Veteran-Owned certification is easy and hassle-free. Simply visit Washington Electronic Business Solutions (WEBS) by clicking the link here. When filling out the online form:

1. Click “Yes” to display company contact information to other companies for partnering opportunities. This allows other businesses in the construction space to see your certification and contact you for potential collaborations.
2. Click “Washington-Owned Business Certification.” When you do, the form automatically sends an email to the Department of Veterans affairs to confirm that you are, in fact, a veteran-owned business.

When do I need to take action by?

The sooner you apply for veteran-owned business certification, the better. WSDOT recently announced the changes, but they recommend everyone interested take action before the beginning of summer.

This sounds like a great opportunity, but I still have questions. Who can I contact?

If you still have questions about getting certified as a veteran-owned business, contact:

• Yolanda Brooks, Community Engagement, Office of Equal Opportunity at BrooksY@wsdot.wa.gov or call (360) 522-0856.
• Diane Gard, DBE Support Services, Office of Equal Opportunity at GardD@wsdot.wa.gov or call (360) 522-0851

For additional information on other certifications offered in Washington, click here.

At AGC of Washington, we encourage all of our member veteran business owners to apply for this opportunity. When the five-percent enforceable goal goes into effect later this year, it promises excellent opportunities for both financial and professional growth.

To get additional information, click here. The one-sheet printout includes a step-by-step application guide. Don’t delay. Get certified as soon as possible. Thank you!