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How to Get Certified For The SBA 8(a) Small Business Development Program
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SBA’s 8(a) Small Business Development Program can help qualifying minority-owned firms develop and grow their businesses through one-to-one counseling, training, workshops, and management and technical guidance. The program also provides access to government contracting opportunities, allowing these businesses to become solid competitors in the federal marketplace.
How do I know if I qualify for the 8(a) small business program?
How does Small Business Association support 8(a)-certified firms?
After businesses are accepted into the small business program, SBA provides business development assistance and helps them maintain small business program requirements. In addition, SBA’s Mentor-Protégé Program, a subset of the 8(a) program, pairs mentor firms with protégé firms to provide managerial and technical assistance as well as joint venture and subcontracting opportunities to help the protégé compete successfully for federal contracts.
How do I find out more about the 8(a) program?
Small businesses interested in the 8(a) program should contact their local SBA district office.
Other certifications
Small businesses seeking minority business certification should contact the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), which provides a direct link between corporate America and minority-owned businesses. It was created to increase procurement and business opportunities for minority businesses of all sizes.
Small businesses seeking LGBTQ business certification should contact the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC). LGBTQ-owned businesses are routinely sought after by NGLCC Corporate Partners who are looking to increase their spend with the LGBTQ business community through their internal, proprietary database.
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