VA OSDBU & NVSBC –How to Succeed in Government Contracting
Date: March 5, 2026
In a recent interview with Chanel Bankston‑Carter, Executive Director of the Veteran Affairs Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (VA OSDBU), NVSBC Executive Director and CEO Scott Jensen was asked about the unique role National Veteran Small Business Coalition (NVSBC) plays in legislative advocacy for veteran business owners as well as the critical work it does to help prepare veteran entrepreneurs to be successful in the federal contracting space.
Jensen shared insights drawn from decades of public service and private-sector experience, outlining NVSBC’s ongoing mission to strengthen advocacy, improve small business access to federal contracting opportunities, and advance the interests of Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs). He emphasized the Coalition’s work in policy engagement, education, and strategic relationship-building – all designed to ensure veteran entrepreneurs are positioned for long-term success.
Three practical takeaways from the interview for small business owners seeking to win or grow their business within the federal marketplace:
- Build Relationships Before You Bid: Success in federal contracting often begins long before a solicitation is released. Develop relationships with agency representatives, prime contractors, and industry partners to better understand mission needs and upcoming opportunities.
- Focus on Performance and Differentiation: Clearly articulate your core capabilities, past performance, and value proposition. Agencies are seeking reliable partners who can demonstrate measurable results and mission alignment.
- Engage in Continuous Learning: The federal marketplace is complex and constantly changing. Invest time in training, networking, and staying current on procurement trends to remain competitive and strategically positioned for growth.
To view the full interview on YouTube, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rElksJqJnlA
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The National Veteran Small Business Coalition (NVSBC) is a nonprofit organization, providing training and other resources to veteran-owned companies and commercial businesses who want to do business within the federal marketplace. NVSBC hosts an annual business growth conference that includes Federal Agency leaders and Prime Contractors, regional training and networking events, and free access to over 100 online training videos. To learn more, visit https://nvsbc.org/.