8(a) Certification in Delaware
Complete guide to getting 8(a) Business Development certified in Delaware — requirements, documents, costs, and step-by-step application process.
What is 8(a) Certification?
Business development program for small disadvantaged businesses.
Eligibility Requirements
Must be at least 51% owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, with adjusted gross income under $400,000.
Where to Get 8(a) Certified in Delaware
These organizations issue 8(a) certification and serve Delaware:
U.S. Small Business Administration
Federal agency that administers the 8(a) Business Development Program and HUBZone certification for government contracting.
Visit website →Required Documents for 8(a)
| Document | Status | How to Obtain |
|---|---|---|
| Government-Issued Photo ID | Required | If expired, visit your local DMV or apply for passport renewal at usps.com or travel.state.gov. |
| Business Tax Returns (3 Years) | Required | Request copies from your accountant or download from IRS.gov using Form 4506-T. |
| Organizational Chart | Required | Create using tools like Lucidchart, Microsoft Visio, or PowerPoint. |
| Operating Agreement or Bylaws | Required | Draft with an attorney or use a legal template service. Must reflect current ownership accurately. |
| Personal Tax Returns (3 Years) | Required | From your tax preparer or IRS.gov. All owners with 10%+ ownership typically need to provide. |
| Affidavit of Ownership | Required | Each certifying body provides their own form. Download from their website or request. |
| Birth Certificate | Required | Request from the vital records office in your birth state. Many states offer online ordering through vitalchek.com. |
| Personal Net Worth Statement | Required | Download SBA Form 413 from sba.gov. Complete with your accountant if needed. |
| Social Disadvantage Narrative | Required | Write a personal narrative following the agency's guidelines. Can be emotional to write. |
| Economic Disadvantage Documentation | Required | Compile tax returns, financial statements, and documentation of limited access to capital. |
| Insurance Certificates | Recommended | Request Certificate of Insurance (COI) from your insurance agent. |
How to Apply for 8(a) in Delaware
- **Step 1: Register in SAM.gov**
- You must have an active SAM.gov registration before applying for 8(a).
- **Step 2: Complete the Online Application**
- Apply at certify.sba.gov. The application is extensive - budget several hours.
- **Step 3: Submit Documentation**
- Upload all required documents. Missing documents significantly delay processing.
- **Step 4: SBA Review**
- The SBA reviews your application for eligibility. They may request additional information.
- **Step 5: Site Visit (if required)**
- SBA may conduct a site visit for clarification.
- **Step 6: Certification Decision**
- SBA makes a determination within 90 days of complete application. Complex cases may take 180+ days.
- **Step 7: Business Development Assistance**
- Once certified, you're assigned a Business Opportunity Specialist (BOS) to help you succeed.
Corporate Programs Accepting 8(a)
These companies have supplier diversity programs that accept 8(a) certification:
Boeing
Boeing is the world's largest aerospace company and a leading manufacturer of commercial jetliners, defense systems, and space technology. Their Supplier Diversity program has been …
View program details →Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin is the world's largest defense contractor with over $65 billion in annual revenue, primarily from U.S. government contracts. Their Supplier Diversity program actively …
View program details →McKesson
McKesson is a Fortune 8 healthcare company providing pharmaceuticals and medical supplies distribution, healthcare IT, and care management. They serve government healthcare programs including VA …
View program details →AECOM
AECOM is a global infrastructure consulting firm with significant government contracts in transportation, facilities, environmental, and construction management. Their supplier diversity program is recognized as …
View program details →BAE Systems
BAE Systems is a British multinational defense company with significant U.S. operations. Their U.S. subsidiary is a major defense contractor serving all military branches and …
View program details →Booz Allen Hamilton
Booz Allen Hamilton is a leading management and technology consulting firm serving government clients, particularly in defense and intelligence. With over $9 billion in revenue, …
View program details →CACI International
CACI International provides expertise and technology to government customers in intelligence, defense, and federal civilian markets. With over $6 billion in revenue primarily from government …
View program details →Cardinal Health
Cardinal Health is a Fortune 15 healthcare services company distributing pharmaceuticals and medical products. They serve government healthcare facilities and maintain a strong supplier diversity …
View program details →Fluor Corporation
Fluor is one of the world's largest engineering, procurement, and construction companies with major government contracts in energy, infrastructure, and defense sectors. Their supplier diversity …
View program details →General Dynamics
General Dynamics is a global aerospace and defense company with business segments including Aerospace (Gulfstream), Combat Systems, Information Technology, and Marine Systems (submarines and ships). …
View program details →Huntington Ingalls Industries
Huntington Ingalls Industries is America's largest military shipbuilder, constructing nuclear aircraft carriers and submarines. As a major Navy contractor, they maintain active small and diverse …
View program details →Jacobs
Jacobs is a global leader in engineering, technical, and construction services with significant government contracts in infrastructure, environmental, and defense sectors. Their supplier diversity program …
View program details →KBR
KBR delivers science, technology, and engineering solutions to governments and companies around the world. With major contracts in defense logistics, government services, and technology, they …
View program details →L3Harris Technologies
L3Harris Technologies is a leading defense contractor focused on tactical communications, electronic warfare, and ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) systems. Formed from the merger of L3 …
View program details →Leidos
Leidos is a FORTUNE 500 science and technology company providing solutions in defense, intelligence, civil, and health markets. With over $14 billion in annual revenue …
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