The SBA administers two business assistance programs for small disadvantaged businesses SDB. These programs are the 8(a) Business Development Program and the Small Disadvantaged Business Certification Program. While the 8(a) Program offers a broad scope of assistance to socially and economically disadvantaged firms, SDB certification strictly pertains to benefits in Federal procurement. Companies which are 8(a) firms automatically qualify for SDB certification.
The SBA administers two business assistance programs for small disadvantaged businesses SDB. These programs are the 8(a) Business Development Program and the Small Disadvantaged Business Certification Program. While the 8(a) Program offers a broad scope of assistance to socially and economically disadvantaged firms, SDB certification strictly pertains to benefits in Federal procurement. Companies which are 8(a) firms automatically qualify for SDB certification.
Today 8(a) Business Development Program is strengthened and improved to be a truly effective business development vehicle. New regulations permit 8(a) companies to form beneficial teaming partnerships and allow Federal agencies to streamline the contracting process. New rules make it easier for non-minority firms to participate by proving their social disadvantage. We also have implemented the new Mentor-Protégé Program to allow starting 8(a) companies to learn the ropes from experienced businesses. Our task is to teach 8(a) and other small companies how to compete in the Federal contracting arena and how to take advantage of greater subcontracting opportunities available from large firms as the result of public-private partnerships.
The 8(a) Business Development assessment tool was launched to help small business owners decide whether they are suitable and eligible for the SBA's 8(a) Business Development Program. The program helps small disadvantaged businesses compete in the U.S. economy through business development. The customized 8(a) assessment tool directs entrepreneurs to targeted training and resources online.
You can apply online for 8(a)/SDB Certification. You will need an SBA Form 912, Statement of Personal History, and an IRS Form 4506T, Request for Copy or Transcript of Tax Form, along with other forms.
The HUBZone (Historically Underutilized Business Zone) Empowerment Contracting Program is designed to stimulate economic development and create jobs in urban and rural communities by providing federal contracting preferences to small businesses. These preferences go to small businesses that obtain HUBZone certification by being located in a HUBZone designated area or employing staff who live in such an area.
A free 8(a) Program Workshop is held on the last Tuesday of each month (except December) from 10am to 11:30am in the Federal Building located at 125 South State Street, Room 2222, Salt Lake City, Utah.
For further information about these programs, contact one of the Business Development Staff - Nancy Byerly, 801-524-6831, email: nancy.byerly@sba.gov, Suzan Yoshimura, 801-524-3206, email: suzan.yoshimura@sba.gov and Dennis Wengert at 801-524-3204, email: dennis.wengert@sba.gov or attend a free monthly workshop.
