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01Set-Asides & Socio-Economic

What is a EDWOSB (Economically Disadvantaged WOSB)?

Also known as: Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business

By the GovPrimer teamUpdated January 1, 2026
Definition

An EDWOSB is a women-owned small business whose owners also meet SBA's economic-disadvantage criteria — limits on personal net worth, income, and assets. EDWOSBs qualify for set-asides in more NAICS industries than WOSBs.

01Section

Economic-disadvantage criteria

  • Personal net worth below SBA's threshold (excluding certain assets).
  • Adjusted gross income averaged over recent years below the limit.
  • Fair market value of total assets below the cap.
02Section

Why it matters

Because EDWOSB status covers a wider set of eligible NAICS codes for set-asides, it can open more opportunities than the broader WOSB designation. Certification through SBA or an approved certifier is required.

01Questions

Frequently asked questions

Is every EDWOSB also a WOSB?

Yes. EDWOSB is a subset of WOSB — the firm meets all WOSB requirements plus the additional economic-disadvantage tests.

02Related terms
WOSB (Women-Owned Small Business)Set-Aside8(a) Business Development ProgramSAM.gov
01Keep exploring
WOSB (Women-Owned Small Business)Set-Aside8(a) Business Development ProgramSAM.govUnderstanding Set-Asides: 8(a), WOSB, SDVOSB, HUBZoneWOSB Contract Opportunities
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