The Certified Veteran Owned Business (CVOB) and Certified Military Personnel Owned Business (CMPOB) Programs were established by Secretary of State Kris Warner in 2026, making West Virginia the 15th state in the nation to formally certify and recognize businesses owned by veterans and military personnel.

Operated by the West Virginia Secretary of State, the CVOB and CMPOB Programs provide a credible and reliable verification that a West Virginia business is at least 51 percent owned by an honorably discharged U.S. military veteran, military personnel of any branch of the United States military, or their respective spouses.

Many veteran and military personnel business owners take pride in showcasing their military service and entrepreneurial accomplishments to their customers and communities. With these certification programs, West Virginia has standardized how customers can identify these businesses.

Businesses seeking certification simply must complete a short application. The Secretary of State's Business Division will review the applications, verify eligibility, and grant certifications to qualified businesses. Approved businesses will receive an official decal and logotype that can be displayed at their business, on official records such as invoices, and in marketing materials including websites, commercials, and advertisements.