SBA 8(a) Program – Sole Source Government Contracts

Did you know the federal government is required by law to provide opportunities for minority owned small businesses? Through special sole source programs, including the Small Business Association (SBA) 8(a) program, small business owners have exclusive access to opportunities and assistance.

The ultimate goal of the 8(a) program is to ensure that socially and economically disadvantaged small businesses thrive in the private sector. Through the (8)a program, small business owners have the opportunity to bid on government contracts with extra weight given during the evaluation process. As you win government contracts, you can use the experience to attract valuable human resources and compete more successfully with larger businesses in both the private and public sectors.

While your business must meet all evaluation criteria to qualify as an 8(a) firm, doing so will increase your chances of receiving an award for a particular bid based on your status. The 8(a) program lasts for nine years and operates in two phases: a four-year developmental stage and a five-year transition stage. During this period, the SBA tracks your progress through annual reviews, business planning, and systematic evaluations.

What Are the Benefits of the 8(a) Program?

Upon certification as an 8(a) firm, you can:

• Receive sole source government contracts with a ceiling of $4 million for goods and services and $6.5 million for manufacturing.
• Form teams to bid on larger prime contracts.
• Obtain specialized training, counseling, marketing assistance, and high-level executive development.
• Gain potential access to surplus government property and supplies, SBA guaranteed loans, and bonding assistance.

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