PrimeRFP SCOUT · Federal Set-Aside Program
Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB)
Federal contracts reserved for women-owned small businesses — the fastest-growing small business category with increasing agency participation goals.
$26B
Total Obligated
4.2%
% of Federal Spend
28,000+
Total Awards
↑↑
Trend (~11%)
What is Women-Owned Small Business?
Federal contracts reserved for women-owned small businesses — the fastest-growing small business category with increasing agency participation goals.
Certification Process
Prove 51%+ ownership and control by a U.S. woman, register in SAM.gov, obtain DUNS number, provide IRS tax documentation, and apply for certification through an approved Third-Party Certifier (online, typically 30–60 days). Must be small by NAICS size standard.
Business Development Strategy
WOSB is the fastest-growing set-aside category (11% CAGR) with expanding agency programs and high political commitment. Entry barrier is lower than 8(a) (no economic disadvantage requirement). Strong subcontracting demand from large primes seeking WOSB partnerships.
Top Agencies Buying Women-Owned Small Business
| Rank | Agency | Estimated Spend |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Department of Health and Human Services | $6B |
| #2 | Department of Defense | $5.5B |
| #3 | General Services Administration | $3.2B |
| #4 | Department of Veterans Affairs | $2.8B |
| #5 | Department of Homeland Security | $2.1B |
FY2025 estimated federal spending
Market Opportunity
Total Market Size
$26B
4.2% of all federal contracting
Growth Rate
~11% annual growth
3-year compound annual growth rate
Trend
↑↑
Current direction and momentum
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it take to be certified as a WOSB?
You must be a U.S. woman (citizen/permanent resident) with 51%+ ownership and control of a small business, meet NAICS size standards, and apply through an approved Third-Party Certifier. No economic disadvantage requirement. Certification takes 30–60 days and is good for 3 years.
Why is WOSB growing so fast?
WOSB is the fastest-growing set-aside (11% CAGR) due to increasing agency participation goals, congressional support for women entrepreneurs, and lower barriers to entry compared to 8(a). Teaming demand from primes is also strong.
What federal agencies have WOSB contracting programs I should target?
HHS is the top WOSB buyer ($6B), followed by DoD ($5.5B), GSA ($3.2B), VA ($2.8B), and DHS ($2.1B). Each agency has evolving WOSB goals and contracting vehicles — PrimeRFP SCOUT tracks all WOSB-specific RFPs and task order opportunities.
Ready to compete as a Women-Owned Small Business firm?
Get certified, find Women-Owned Small Business opportunities, learn winning strategies, and connect with federal buyers in PrimeRFP SCOUT.