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8(a) BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

8(a) Certification

8(a) Business Development Certification is an SBA federal registration that designates your business at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individual(s).

The program is designed to help small businesses overcome previous hardships by providing access to government contracts.

The SBA goal across all federal agencies is 5% of procurement spending with 8(a) Certified businesses. 
The Federal Government has increased its goal for procurement spending across all small disadvantaged business to 15% annually.

8(a) Certification Benefits

Becoming certified  to be eligible to compete for sole source and set-aside government contracts and with 10% pricing advantage with SBA support.

Your business can excel in government contracting on a level playing field. Enjoy benefits and the competitive edge that these programs offer.

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  • Access to Contract Opportunities

    Access to government and private sector contracts that are specifically set aside for economically and socially disadvantaged businesses. This can open doors to new business and revenue streams that may not have been available otherwise.

  • Competitive Edge

    Gives you a competitive edge when bidding for contracts, as it demonstrates that you meet certain standards and criteria, making you a preferred choice among buyers. In addition, 8(a) Certified businesses receive SBA support, including participation in the 7(j) program for training, technical, and business development assistance.

  • Subcontracting Opportunities

    Prime contractors need qualified 8(a) Certified businesses to meet their subcontracting plans for larger government contracts. 8(a) businesses also get paired with an industry mentor. This is a great way to gain contracting performance history.

  • Networking Opportunities

    Provides opportunities to connect with other minority-owned businesses and potential clients through various events and networking opportunities. This can help you build new relationships and network with industry contacts.

  • 9-Year Cert with Dedicated SBA Liason

    Get a dedicated SBA specialist to help you navigate and coach you in federal contracting. Access to funding and resources, such as loans, grants, purchasing networks, and training programs, which can help your business grow and succeed. 8(a) also significantly increases the effectiveness of a GSA Schedule as a preferred vendor.

  • Improved Credibility

    Improve the credibility of your business, as it demonstrates that you have been independently verified as minority-owned and meet certain standards, instilling trust and confidence among clients and partners.

8(a) Certification Eligibility

SBA Qualification Criteria:

  • Business has to qualify for SBA small business status.

  • At least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by a U.S. citizen(s) qualified as economically and socially disadvantaged individual(s).*

  • Demonstrate potential for success (2-Years Experience) & good character.

  • Control individual(s) personal Net Worth must be $850k or less, with Adjusted Gross Income of $400k or less, and $6.5M or less in Assets.

  • Have not previously participated in the 8(a)Program.

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SBA 8a Certified

*Economically Disadvantaged Individuals are defined as those for whom impaired access to financial opportunities has hampered the ability to compete in the free enterprise system, in contrast to people in similar businesses not identified as socially disadvantaged.

*Socially Disadvantaged Individuals are defined as those who have been historically subjected to racial or ethnic prejudice or cultural bias within the larger American culture. Identified groups: African Americans, Asian Pacific Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, and Subcontinent Asian Americans.

FAQ's

Where can I find more information on the 8(a) Businesss Development Program?
The SBA has additional information on the 8(a) Business Development Program on their website.
Am I eligible for 8(a) certification if I recently started my business?
No, you must have  demonstrated potential for success (2-years experience).
Is there a submission fee paid to the SBA for the 8(a) Certification?
No, there is no fee paid directly to the SBA for 8(a) certification. Any fees paid to third parties are for document preparation, review, submission, and responses on behalf of the business.
I am a resident alien/green card holder, am I eligible for 8(a) Certification?
No, unfortunately not. Resident aliens or green cardholders do not qualify to for 8(a) Certification.
Does my 8(a) Certification have to be renewed periodically?
No, the 8(a) Certification is an 9 year certification. The first four years are considered your Developmental Stage and the last five years are your Transition Stage to successfully graduate from the program.
How do I know if I am qualified for small business status with the SBA?
The SBA has size standards based on your 5-year average annual revenue, and in some cases employee count, according to your primary NAICS Code. To find your if you qualify visit this SBA website  tool.
How do I know if I am qualified for 8(a) Certification?
Do you meet the qualification criteria listed above and are you considered economically and socially disadvantaged as defined?

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