8(a) Business Development Program

The 8(a) Business Development Program is an SBA program for small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. Participants can receive sole-source contracts up to $4.5M (goods) or $7M (services) and compete for 8(a) set-aside contracts.

How It Works

The 8(a) program is a 9-year business development program administered by the SBA. During the first 4 years (developmental stage), businesses receive training and counseling. During years 5-9 (transitional stage), businesses are expected to demonstrate competitive viability. 8(a) firms receive access to sole-source contracts, mentoring, and joint venture opportunities. The federal government targets 5% of contracting dollars for 8(a) businesses.

Example

An 8(a)-certified IT firm receives a sole-source contract from the VA for $3M to develop a patient portal. Because the firm is 8(a) certified and the contract is under the threshold, no competition is required.

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