8(a)
8(a) Business Development Program
CertificationsDefinition
A federal program that helps small disadvantaged businesses compete for government contracts through business development assistance.
More Information
Administered by the SBA, the 8(a) program provides participating businesses with access to sole-source contracts, mentorship, training, and technical assistance. Companies can participate for up to nine years, with the first four years in a developmental stage and the final five years in a transitional stage.
Example
An IT services company owned by a socially disadvantaged veteran can use 8(a) certification to receive sole-source government contracts up to $4 million.