Before You Apply: A Realistic Look at 8(a) Certification Requirements
If you’ve been hearing about the SBA’s 8(a) Program and wondering whether your business can qualify, you’re not alone. Many small business owners are drawn to the program because it opens doors to federal contracts that can completely transform a company’s future. But here’s the truth most people miss: getting certified isn’t just about filling out a form it’s about proving that your business meets every single one of the 8a certification requirements with real, verifiable evidence. So before you hit “apply,” let’s take an honest, human look at what it really takes to qualify, why the process feels demanding, and how you can position your business for success. Why the 8(a) Program is Still Worth It Federal contracts can be life-changing. The government buys almost everything from tech services to construction and a portion of that spending is reserved exclusively for small disadvantaged businesses. That’s where the 8(a) Business Development Program comes in. It helps socially and...