For years, small businesses have used the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) 8(a) Business Development Program to access federal contracting opportunities. However, recent legislation has substantially changed the program, making it difficult for many women-owned businesses to get their foot in the door for the right subcontracting opportunities. 

However, Montgomery County has recently made changes that have made it easier for women- and veteran-owned businesses to compete for County contracts. Starting in July, the Montgomery County Office of Procurement, under its Minority, Female, and Disabled-Owned Business (MFD) Program, has begun recognizing the US SBA’s women-owned small businesses (WOSB) and economically disadvantaged WOSB.

The County administration will also accept Maryland’s Veteran-Owned Small Business Enterprise (VSBE) certification through the Veteran Business Preference Program. 

“Montgomery County is committed to creating a procurement environment that is accessible, inclusive and competitive,” explained Office of Procurement Director Ash Shetty. “We recognize the SBA Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB/EDWOSB) and Maryland Veteran-Owned Small Business Enterprise (VSBE) certifications as trusted and rigorous standards, and we are proud to accept them.”

These reforms will help thousands of certified businesses access funding and contracting opportunities while reducing administrative burdens. Vendors can upload their certification on the County Vendor Registration System.

Montgomery County has approximately 800 active MFD-certified businesses, with nearly $274 million in County contracts awarded to them in FY 2025.