Government Contracts for Women Owned Businesses: How to Qualify & Win

Breaking into the world of government contracts for women-owned businesses can be a powerful way to grow your company, gain financial stability, and make a lasting impact. The U.S. government actively supports women entrepreneurs through special programs, set-aside contracts, and funding opportunities — but many women-owned businesses don’t know where to start or how to qualify.

This guide will help you understand how government contracts work, what it takes to qualify as a woman-owned business, and how to increase your chances of winning bids.

Why the Government Supports Women-Owned Businesses

Over the years, the federal government has recognised the need to create equal opportunities for women in business. To ensure fair access, it reserves at least 5% of all contracting dollars each year for certified women-owned small businesses (WOSBs). These contracts are part of an effort to boost diversity and innovation across industries.

From construction to IT, healthcare to consulting, women-owned businesses can compete for government contracts that can change the course of their growth. The key is understanding the process and positioning your business correctly.

Step 1: Understand What a Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Is

To qualify for government contracts for women-owned businesses, you must first understand the eligibility criteria for becoming a WOSB. The federal government defines a Women-Owned Small Business as:

• A small business that is at least 51% owned and controlled by one or more women.
  

• Women who manage the day-to-day operations and make long-term decisions.
  

• The owner(s) must be U.S. citizens.
  

There is also an additional certification called Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB). This applies to women who have limited personal financial resources. This certification can open even more contracting opportunities reserved specifically for disadvantaged women entrepreneurs.

Step 2: Get Certified as a WOSB or EDWOSB

Certification is your ticket to access set-aside contracts. Without it, your business cannot qualify for those special opportunities. You can become certified in two ways:

1. Self-certify through the Small Business Administration (SBA) portal. You’ll need to upload documentation demonstrating women's ownership, management, and control.
   

2. Use an approved third-party certifier. Organisations like the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) or the National Women Business Owners Corporation (NWBOC) can handle the certification process for you.
   

While self-certification is free, third-party certification often helps when working with large corporations and state contracts in addition to federal ones.

Step 3: Register Your Business

Once certified, register your business in SAM.gov (System for Award Management). This is where government agencies search for contractors. You’ll need:

• Your business details (EIN, DUNS, and NAICS codes).
  

• A clear description of your products or services.
  

• Banking and contact information.
  

When setting up your profile, make sure your business capabilities are clearly written. Government buyers often filter through keywords, so use terms that reflect your services and experience accurately.

Step 4: Identify Contract Opportunities

Finding the right contracts can seem overwhelming at first. Fortunately, there are several government websites designed to make it easier for small businesses:

• SAM.gov – Main database for federal contract listings.
  

• USAspending.gov – Tracks where federal dollars are going.
  

• SBA’s Dynamic Small Business Search (DSBS) – Helps agencies find qualified small businesses.
  

You can also connect with your local Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) for free training and guidance on finding and applying for contracts.

Step 5: Prepare a Winning Proposal

Writing a strong proposal is crucial. The government looks for businesses that can deliver quality work, stay on budget, and meet deadlines. Here are a few practical tips:

• Read the solicitation carefully — every detail matters.
  

• Tailor your proposal to address the agency’s needs, not just your capabilities.
  

• Highlight your experience, team qualifications, and success stories.
  

• Be clear about your pricing and project timelines.
  

Even if you don’t win your first bid, each proposal is a learning experience. Over time, you’ll get better at matching your strengths with the right contracts.

Step 6: Build Relationships and Network

Success in government contracts for women owned business isn’t just about paperwork — it’s also about connections. Attend networking events, trade fairs, and webinars hosted by federal and local agencies. Build relationships with contracting officers, mentors, and other women business owners who have experience in the field.

Joining associations like Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP) or American Express OPEN for Government Contracts can also open doors to new opportunities and valuable mentorship.

Step 7: Stay Compliant and Keep Growing

Winning a contract is just the beginning. Government agencies expect consistent performance and compliance with regulations. Make sure you:

• Keep your certifications up to date.
  

• File accurate and timely reports.
  

• Deliver excellent service on every contract.
  

Good performance leads to better relationships and repeat opportunities. Many agencies prefer to work with contractors they trust, so reliability is key.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common pitfalls women entrepreneurs face when starting in government contracting — and how to avoid them:

• Skipping certification: Without official certification, you miss out on reserved contracts.
  

• Incomplete SAM profile: A half-filled profile can keep your business invisible to buyers.
  

• Underestimating competition: Even with set-asides, competition can be tough. Take time to research your market and competitors.
  

• Weak proposals: Avoid generic templates — personalize your proposal for each bid.
  

The Power of Persistence

Many women-owned businesses win their first contract after several attempts. The process takes patience, persistence, and preparation. But once you’ve built your foundation, government contracting can become one of the most rewarding and steady income sources for your business.

Every bid improves your experience, reputation, and confidence. Even rejections provide valuable insights into how you can do better next time.

Conclusion

Breaking into government contracts for women owned business can feel like a challenge, but it’s one of the most empowering ways to grow your company. With the right certification, strong networking, and consistent effort, your business can access a steady stream of reliable opportunities that support long-term success.

Ready to take your next step toward winning government contracts? GovEdge Pros is here to guide you every step of the way. From registration and certification to proposal preparation and compliance, the experts at GovEdge Pros help women entrepreneurs turn opportunities into lasting success.

Visit GovEdge Pros today to learn how to qualify, compete, and win with confidence. Your government contracting journey starts here.