Veteran-owned businesses are a driving force in the U.S. economy, comprising over 2.5 million companies and generating more than $1 trillion in revenue annually. Their impact is particularly felt in the government contracting sector, where their credibility, trustworthiness, and unique advantages set them apart. Wander Staffing, an 8(a) and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), serves as a shining example of how Veteran-owned companies thrive in this competitive space.
This blog explores how being a Veteran-owned business enhances credibility in government contracting, highlighting lessons from Wander Staffing’s journey.
What Does It Mean to Be Veteran-Owned?
To be recognized as a Veteran-owned business, a company must be at least 51% owned and controlled by one or more Veterans. SDVOSB certification goes a step further, acknowledging businesses owned by Veterans with service-connected disabilities. These designations are not just symbolic—they open the door to set-aside contracts that provide Veteran-owned businesses with valuable opportunities in the federal marketplace.
“The Veteran-owned piece is massive because we are a disabled Veteran-owned company,” said Rachel McGee, COO of Wander Staffing. This certification not only builds credibility but also fosters diversity and inclusivity in government contracting, allowing Veteran entrepreneurs to bring their unique strengths to critical projects. For Wander Staffing, the SDVOSB status acts as a bridge between federal agencies and the specialized healthcare talent they supply.
Building Credibility Through Shared Experience
One of the key advantages Veteran-owned businesses bring is their ability to establish trust through shared values and experiences. With a leadership team steeped in military service, these companies deeply understand the complexities of government systems and the challenges agencies face.
Speaking about Wander Staffing’s unique edge, McGee shared how their Veteran perspective resonates with clients: “Speaking to the fact that we are a Veteran-owned company—that our owner himself has gone through these same DBQs for example—is huge.” The company’s firsthand experience with military protocols translates into precision and reliability, giving government clients confidence that their needs will be met with a deep understanding of their mission.
Why Veteran-Owned Businesses Stand Out
Veteran-owned businesses are often associated with discipline, integrity, and reliability—qualities deeply ingrained through military service. These attributes not only enhance their reputation but also give them a competitive edge in securing federal contracts. Additionally, certifications like SDVOSB grant them access to set-aside contracts, ensuring they can compete effectively in the government marketplace.
Wander Staffing exemplifies this competitive edge. By leveraging their military network, they attract top-tier talent, creating a robust pipeline of highly skilled professionals. Their proven track record in staffing healthcare professionals for federal agencies showcases how Veteran-owned businesses deliver on their promises while exceeding expectations.
The Power of Human Connection
Beyond operational advantages, the emotional resonance of being a Veteran-owned business often creates deeper bonds with clients, partners, and recruits. McGee described how this connection plays out: “When I’m interviewing someone for a random role and they find out we’re Veteran-owned, they say, ‘My husband or my partner or my son was in the military—that’s so great to hear.’”
This sense of shared purpose builds trust and fosters loyalty, turning one-time partnerships into long-lasting relationships. For Wander Staffing, this personal touch enhances both their recruiting efforts and their reputation as a company that genuinely cares about the people it serves.
Leveraging Veteran-Owned Status for Growth
Success as a Veteran-owned business requires more than a certification. Strategic use of this status can unlock significant growth opportunities. Partnerships are particularly vital, as McGee emphasized, especially for companies preparing to transition out of set-aside programs like SBA’s 8(a) initiative. “As we exit 8(a), we need to make sure we’ve built partnerships with smaller successful 8(a)s to continue accessing the set-aside market,” she said.
Additionally, diversifying labor categories, actively engaging in Veteran-focused programs, and maintaining visibility within government networks are all ways to maximize the benefits of Veteran-owned status. These strategies ensure businesses remain competitive as they scale.
Lessons from Wander Staffing
Wander Staffing’s journey offers valuable lessons for other Veteran-owned businesses seeking success in government contracting. Key takeaways include:
- Commit to Excellence: Always deliver 100% on contracts. Reliability and integrity build a reputation that speaks louder than any marketing campaign.
- Leverage Veteran-Owned Status: Use the personal and professional connections that come with this designation to build trust with clients and recruits.
- Anticipate Challenges: Plan for growth by developing partnerships and preparing for the transition out of set-aside programs.
- Prioritize Sustainability: Don’t underbid to win contracts; instead, focus on pricing competitively to ensure staffing success and financial stability.
The Veteran-owned status is more than a designation—it is a testament to a company’s values, expertise, and commitment to service. Wander Staffing’s success story underscores how this status can be a powerful driver of credibility, trust, and growth in the government contracting space.
For Veteran-owned businesses, the path to success is paved with hard work, strategic planning, and a dedication to delivering excellence. By following these principles, businesses can not only secure contracts but also create meaningful impact for the communities they serve.