ROCKVILLE, Md. (DC News Now) -- Montgomery County has launched the Veteran Business Preference Program to support veteran-owned businesses as part of the Local Small Business Reserve Program. Effective Jan. 2, the program provides eligible veteran-owned businesses with a five-percent evaluation point advantage when bidding for county contracts. “This new Veteran Business Preference Program reflects our commitment to honoring those who have served our country by providing meaningful opportunities for their businesses to thrive,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. Cold emergency alert prompts Montgomery County schools to move activities indoors To qualify, businesses must be certified under the LSBRP and hold a valid Veteran-Owned Small Business or Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business certificate. The Office of Procurement will also host an online open house on Jan. 15 to provide details about the program. Officials hope the initiative will boost opportunities for veteran entrepreneurs while strengthening the local economy. For more information, visit the LSBRP website.