WOSB and EDWOSB Certification
Women-owned and economically disadvantaged women-owned small business set-asides for construction firms.
The WOSB and EDWOSB programs reserve contracts in industries where women-owned businesses are underrepresented — construction among them. Certification proves your status before you bid.
Eligibility
- The firm is small under its primary NAICS code.
- At least 51% is owned and controlled by women who are U.S. citizens.
- For EDWOSB, the owner(s) must also meet economic-disadvantage thresholds for personal net worth and income.
- Daily management and long-term control rest with the qualifying woman or women.
Certifying
You can certify through an approved third-party certifier or through the SBA's free process. Whichever route you take, the certification must be active and match your SAM.gov record at the time you claim the status.
Using it well
Watch for solicitations designated WOSB or EDWOSB, keep your documents organized so a protest can be answered quickly, and pair the preference with a strong technical and price narrative.
General information for construction small businesses, not legal advice.