DVBE Meaning: What It Is and Why It Matters in California State Contracting

If you’re researching DVBE meaning, you’ve likely seen it mentioned in the context of government contracts or small business certifications. But what does DVBE stand for, and why is it essential in California public contracts?

DVBE stands for Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise—a certification program in California that empowers veteran-owned businesses by giving them greater access to state contracts.

What Does DVBE Mean?

A DVBE is a business that is:

• At least 51% owned by one or more disabled veterans

• Managed and controlled by disabled veterans

• Certified by the Office of Small Business and DVBE Services (OSDS)

• Actively performing a commercially useful function in the contract work

This certification gives eligible businesses access to bid preferences and set-aside contracts from California government agencies.

The Purpose of the California DVBE Program

The California Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Program was created in 1989 to recognize the service of disabled veterans by supporting their entrepreneurship. California law requires that at least 3% of all state contracting dollars go to certified DVBEs.

These state contracts cover:

• Information technology

• Professional services

• Goods and equipment

• Public works and infrastructure

Benefits of DVBE Certification

For veteran-owned businesses:

• Direct access to state contracts

• Higher visibility in the public sector

• Partnerships with prime contractors looking to meet DVBE goals

For prime contractors and procurement teams:

• Access to the DVBE incentive (1–5% bid adjustment advantage)

• Improved compliance with state goals

• Partnership with experienced, mission-driven firms

Work with a Trusted DVBE Partner

At California Vet DVBE Strategies LLC, we specialize in helping government agencies and large contractors maximize the value of their DVBE partnerships. As a certified DVBE, we bring decades of real estate, technology, and public sector project leadership to every contract.

📞 Ready to team with a trusted DVBE? Let’s Talk!