In this session from the Navy Gold Coast 2025 conference, SBA leaders and small business experts Luci Montgomery and Michael Sovacool discuss the challenges and opportunities for veteran-owned small businesses (VOSBs) and service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses (SDVOSBs) navigating the federal contracting landscape.The conversation covers:• How to avoid common mistakes when applying for SBA certifications• Why working with Apex Accelerators, SBDCs, and VBOCs can help you succeed at no cost• The importance of timely communication with the SBA during the certification process• Clarifying the “Rule of Two” in federal contracting and what changes could mean for small businesses• How joint ventures, teaming, and the Mentor-Protégé Program open doors for small businesses lacking past performance• The risks of predatory loans and how to seek safe SBA-backed funding optionsIf you’re a veteran entrepreneur, small business owner, or anyone pursuing federal contracts, this discussion provides essential tips, updates, and warnings to help you succeed in the government contracting (GovCon) space.Learn more about Supply Chain Management (SCM): https://www.scmsource.comSBA San Diego: https://www.sba.gov/district/san-diego#SBA #FederalContracting #VeteranOwnedBusiness #SDVOSB #SmallBusinessCertification #GovCon #NavyGoldCoast #GovernmentContracts #MentorProtege #BusinessGrowth