Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB)
The WOSB Federal Contract Program reserves certain federal contracts for businesses at least 51% owned and controlled by women. Economically Disadvantaged WOSBs (EDWOSB) get access to additional set-asides in industries where WOSBs are underrepresented. Certification is available through SBA directly or through approved third-party certifiers.
How This Affects Your CAGE Code Record
When you register on SAM.gov and receive a CAGE code, your business type and socioeconomic certifications are recorded in your entity profile. Contracting officers and prime contractors can look up your CAGE code to verify these designations before teaming or awarding a subcontract. Keeping your SAM.gov registration active and your certifications current is essential — an expired registration will hide your set-aside status from any CAGE code lookup.
Registration Process
Apply for WOSB certification at certify.sba.gov. You must be SAM.gov registered with an active CAGE code first. Certification through SBA is free; third-party certifiers charge fees.
Required Certifications
- SBA WOSB Certification (certify.sba.gov)
- EDWOSB (additional income/asset test)
Set-Aside Advantages
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WOSB set-asides in 85+ NAICS codes
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EDWOSB additional set-asides
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Mentor-Protégé Program eligibility
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Access to DoD and civilian agency WOSB goals
Get Your CAGE Code for Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB)
CAGE codes are assigned free during SAM.gov registration. Use certify.sba.gov for SBA program certifications after your SAM registration is active.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between WOSB and EDWOSB?
EDWOSB (Economically Disadvantaged) applies stricter personal net worth and income tests. EDWOSBs can compete for all WOSB set-asides plus additional EDWOSB-only set-asides.
Is WOSB self-certification still allowed?
No. As of October 2020, all WOSBs must be certified through SBA or an approved third-party certifier — self-certification is no longer accepted.
How does my CAGE code show WOSB status?
After SBA certifies you, your WOSB status appears in SAM.gov and is linked to your CAGE code record.
Contract Data
Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Awards on FedAtlas.com
See which Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB) firms are winning federal contracts.