Certified firms in the 8(a) program can:

Lessons with Certified Special Teams U Instructors – Special Teams U Shop

 

  • Efficiently compete and receive set-aside and sole-source contracts
  • Receive one-on-one business development assistance for their nine-year term from dedicated Business Opportunity Specialists focused on helping firms grow and accomplish their business objectives
  • Pursue opportunity for mentorship from experienced and technically capable firms through the SBA Mentor-Protégé program
  • Connect with procurement and compliance experts who understand regulations in the context of business growth, finance, and government contracting
  • Pursue joint ventures with established businesses to increase capacity
  • Qualify to receive federal surplus property on a priority basis
  • Receive free training from SBA’s 7(j) Management and Technical Assistance program

Your firm is eligible to compete for the program’s sole-source and competitive set-aside contracts after passing the 8(a) certification. For acquisitions assigned NAICS codes of manufacturing (80000), $7.5 million may be authorized, and $4.5 million may be authorized for all other purchases. Entity-owned 8(a) program participants are eligible for sole-source contracts above these thresholds, but the Department of Defense requires approval of a formal justification if the 8(a) sole-source contract exceeds $100 million; all other federal agencies require approval for sole-source 8(a) contract actions that exceed $25 million.

8(a) program participants are eligible to compete for contract awards under other socio-economic programs or small business set-asides they qualify for.