US citizen
The 8(a) program is the most powerful single certification in federal contracting — sole-source ceilings, mentor-protégé eligibility, and significant agency support.
SBA · Socially and economically disadvantaged owners
8(a) — SBA 8(a) Business Development
A 9-year development program for socially and economically disadvantaged owners — heavy federal contracting access plus structured mentorship.
Who qualifies
Socially disadvantaged (presumed for minorities, must prove for others)
The 8(a) program is the most powerful single certification in federal contracting — sole-source ceilings, mentor-protégé eligibility, and significant agency support.
Economically disadvantaged (personal net worth < $850K, AGI < $400K, assets < $6.5M)
The 8(a) program is the most powerful single certification in federal contracting — sole-source ceilings, mentor-protégé eligibility, and significant agency support.
Owns at least 51% of business
The 8(a) program is the most powerful single certification in federal contracting — sole-source ceilings, mentor-protégé eligibility, and significant agency support.
Operates for at least 2 years (waivers possible)
The 8(a) program is the most powerful single certification in federal contracting — sole-source ceilings, mentor-protégé eligibility, and significant agency support.
Process
Eligibility
Run the economic-disadvantage and social-disadvantage checks.
Application
Submit the full 8(a) application through certify.SBA.gov.
SBA review
Multi-month review including financial deep dive.
Program participation
Annual reviews, business plan updates, and graduation in year 9.
Ready when you are
Pursue your 8(a) certification.
Run the eligibility screen, gather documents, and submit with VetBiz alongside you.