Understand 8a Program & 8a Certification for Generating Federal Sales

The 8(a) program has been developed for helping businesses that are owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. The program has been created by the government and thus federal agencies prefer companies that obtain 8a certification. If your entity gets certified then you can get too many advantages to grow your business. You just need to have a clear and strong vision to do business in the federal market. 

Why 8a certification is important? The certification is important to validate that your company has also the traits and is eligible for getting into the developmental program. Remember, not every company can opt for the certification and get into the program to take advantage. 

Once you obtain 8a certifications then you can acquire sole-source contracts. Government limits the competition for certified companies so it is easier to compete in the federal market.

To successfully get into the developmental program by getting certified you need to understand two major aspects and these are:

• 8(a) program 
• 8(a) certification

So let’s start by understanding the subject matter.

Understand the concept of 8(a) program

The 8(a) program is a nine-year program created by the government of the United States. Only businesses that are owned and controlled by economically and socially disadvantaged individuals can opt for getting into the developmental program. Participants of this program go through the process of training. They also get technical assistance to channel their effort in the right direction. The training and technical assistance is mainly designed for enhancing their abilities to compete and sustain in the competitive market of the United States. Small businesses can accomplish their developmental objectives by successful initiation in the right way. Certified participants receive federal contracting opportunities and receive assistance for being in the 8(a) program. Therefore, obtaining federal contracts becomes easier for the participants of the 8(a) program.

With the help of the 8(a) program, you can obtain contracts without putting your products and services out to bid. You can take the advantage of limited competition because the government limits the number of competitors for 8(a) certified businesses. It also makes the process of obtaining contracts less time-consuming. You can get long-term contracting opportunities and receive better pricing. 

Understand about 8(a) certification

You need to know that 8a certification is sponsored by the Small Business Association also known as SBA. It is mandatory to apply to the SBA 8(a) application to obtain the certificate. The 8a certification is designed for the organizations that are owned and controlled at least 51% by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. So if your business does not fall under that category, don’t try to opt for getting the certificate. There are factors that determine whether your company falls under the disadvantaged category or not. So, to get the certificate you need to submit SBA 8(a) application electronically or paper-based.

To get into the 8(a) program you need to identify your primary NAICS code. Then you need to register your business in the System for Award Management (SAM). After that, you need to apply for 8a certification.

You need to keep certain things in mind before applying for the developmental program in the United States. First of all, check the eligibility criteria at the very beginning. You need to have at least 2 years of experience in doing business. You need to submit copies of the two most recent federal tax returns. Gather as much information as you want to be well aware of all the aspects. Then apply to get certified. Create a business plan to thrive in the federal market.

Conclusion    

You have got a complete idea about the 8a certification and 8a program. Now it is time for your business to get certified and take complete advantage of the developmental program.