Getting your business officially certified as veteran-owned can open doors to government contracts, procurement preferences, and networking opportunities. Texas and the federal government both offer certification programs — and they serve different purposes.
This guide covers the main programs available to veteran business owners in Texas and walks you through the process of getting certified.
Why Certification Matters
Veteran-owned business certification isn't just a badge. It provides tangible advantages:
- Government contracting preferences — federal and state agencies have set-aside contracts specifically for veteran-owned businesses
- Procurement goals — the federal government aims to award 3% of all contract dollars to Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs)
- Credibility — certification signals verified veteran ownership to customers, partners, and lenders
- Networking — access to veteran business networks, mentor-protégé programs, and matchmaking events
Texas HUB Certification
The Texas Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) program is managed by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. Veterans can qualify under the HUB program, which gives your business preference in state procurement.
Eligibility requirements:
- Business must be at least 51% owned by qualifying individuals
- Owners must be U.S. citizens and Texas residents
- Business must be a for-profit entity that has been operating and has a fixed address
- Veterans with service-connected disabilities may qualify under the disability category
How to apply:
- Visit the Texas Comptroller's HUB certification page
- Complete the online application
- Submit supporting documentation (DD-214, articles of organization, operating agreement, etc.)
- Processing typically takes 60–90 days
Federal VOSB Certification
The Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) certification is managed by the SBA (Small Business Administration). This is a self-certification — you register through the SBA's Veteran Small Business Certification program (VetCert).
Requirements:
- At least 51% owned and controlled by one or more veterans
- Veterans must manage day-to-day operations and make long-term decisions
- Business must be small by SBA size standards for its industry
Federal SDVOSB Certification
The Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification offers even stronger contracting advantages. The federal government has a goal of awarding 3% of all prime contract dollars to SDVOSBs.
Additional requirements beyond VOSB:
- At least one owner must have a service-connected disability rated by the VA
- That owner must control the business management and daily operations
Since January 2023, both VOSB and SDVOSB certifications go through the SBA VetCert portal (replacing the old VA verification system).
Texas vs. Federal Certification: Which Do You Need?
They serve different markets, and you can hold both:
- Texas HUB — opens doors to Texas state agency contracts and procurement preferences
- VOSB / SDVOSB — opens doors to federal government contracts and set-asides
If you plan to pursue government contracts at any level, getting both certifications is worthwhile. Start with whichever level matches your target customers.
Step-by-Step: Getting Certified
- Form your business — you need an active, registered business entity. Veterans can file a Texas LLC for free with a Veteran Verification Letter.
- Get your EIN — required for most certification applications
- Prepare documentation — DD-214, articles of organization, operating agreement, proof of veteran ownership
- Apply for Texas HUB — through the Texas Comptroller's office
- Apply for VOSB/SDVOSB — through the SBA VetCert portal
- Monitor and renew — certifications require periodic renewal and may involve audits
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying before your business is formed — you need an active entity and EIN first
- Incomplete operating agreements — your operating agreement must clearly show veteran ownership percentages
- Not demonstrating control — ownership alone isn't enough; the veteran must demonstrate day-to-day management control
- Missing renewal deadlines — mark your calendar for recertification dates
How Hutchrok Helps
Hutchrok Solutions Group helps veterans get their business foundation in place — which is the first step toward certification:
- Free Texas LLC filing for qualified veterans
- TVC verification guidance for the Veteran Verification Letter
- Post-filing launch services including EIN assistance, business banking setup, and credit enablement
Once your LLC is formed and operational, you'll have the documentation foundation needed to pursue HUB, VOSB, or SDVOSB certification.