NVBDC encourages veteran-owned businesses to explore federal procurement resources, strengthen supplier readiness, and build relationships with government agencies.
For veteran-owned businesses looking to expand into the federal marketplace, understanding procurement requirements and building relationships with government decision-makers are essential steps toward long-term growth.
On November 19, 2026, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) will host its Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) Summit in Washington, D.C., bringing together veteran entrepreneurs, federal procurement officials, and small business resource partners to explore government contracting opportunities.
Hosted by DOT’s Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU), in partnership with the Department of War’s Office of Industrial Base Growth and the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of Veterans Business Development, this free, in-person event is designed to help veteran-owned small businesses better understand how to compete in the federal marketplace.
Expanding Access to Federal Contracting Opportunities
Federal contracting presents significant opportunities for veteran-owned businesses across industries, including construction, information technology, professional services, logistics, manufacturing, and transportation.
However, successfully entering the federal marketplace requires more than identifying available contracts. Businesses must understand agency requirements, demonstrate their capabilities, develop competitive proposals, and establish relationships with procurement decision-makers.
The U.S. DOT VOSB Summit aims to help veteran entrepreneurs navigate these challenges through practical education, direct engagement, and access to valuable resources.
Participants will have opportunities to:
- Understand federal procurement: Learn how to conduct business with the U.S. DOT and other federal agencies.
- Strengthen contracting readiness: Gain insights into government contracting best practices, procurement requirements, and available resources.
- Connect with federal buyers: Participate in one-on-one matchmaking sessions with agency representatives.
- Explore business opportunities: Discuss current and upcoming contracting needs while developing relationships with government procurement professionals.
- Access business support: Connect with organizations offering technical assistance and resources for veteran-owned businesses.
Although the summit focuses primarily on veteran-owned small businesses, participation is open to businesses across small business categories.
Building Connections That Create Opportunities
One of the summit’s most valuable components is its emphasis on connecting veteran entrepreneurs directly with federal procurement representatives.
These relationships can help business owners better understand agency purchasing needs, identify potential contracting opportunities, and determine how their products or services align with federal requirements.
For veteran-owned businesses seeking to diversify revenue, enter new markets, or expand existing government relationships, events like the VOSB Summit can provide valuable insights and connections.
How NVBDC 3.0 Supports Veteran Business Growth
At the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC), we recognize that business certification is an important step toward expanding market opportunities, but long-term success also requires education, preparation, and meaningful business relationships.
Through NVBDC 3.0 — Same Mission. Greater Impact., we are expanding our commitment to helping veteran-owned businesses become more competitive and procurement-ready.
Our initiatives include veteran business certification for the private-sector marketplace, supplier readiness education, business development webinars, mentorship opportunities, corporate matchmaking, and initiatives designed to help businesses explore federal and international markets.
Programs such as NVBDC JumpStart, our educational webinars, and emerging mentorship initiatives support veteran entrepreneurs as they build the knowledge, capabilities, and relationships needed to pursue new business opportunities.
While NVBDC certification primarily supports recognition within the private-sector supplier marketplace and does not replace federal certification requirements, our broader mission is to help veteran entrepreneurs understand and navigate multiple pathways to business growth.
The U.S. DOT VOSB Summit aligns with that mission by providing direct access to federal contracting education, resources, and procurement professionals.
Event Information
Event: U.S. DOT Veteran-Owned Small Business Summit
Date: Thursday, November 19, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: U.S. Department of Transportation Headquarters, Washington, D.C.
Cost: Free; registration required
Format: In-person
Important Registration Update: The published registration deadline was November 12, 2026. Interested businesses should contact the U.S. DOT directly to inquire whether any additional registration options are available.
Learn More About the U.S. DOT Veteran-Owned Small Business Summit
Advancing the Mission of Veteran Business Success
NVBDC remains committed to connecting veteran-owned businesses with the education, relationships, and resources necessary to grow and compete.
Whether pursuing corporate supplier opportunities, federal contracts, or international business development, veteran entrepreneurs benefit from a strategic approach built on preparation, visibility, and meaningful connections.
We encourage veteran business owners to explore opportunities such as the U.S. DOT VOSB Summit and take advantage of the programs available through NVBDC 3.0.
The mission is the same. Our ambition for impact is greater.
Explore NVBDC Certification, Programs, and Resources
NVBDC 3.0 | Same Mission. Greater Impact.
