8(a) Set-Aside for Minority and Socio-economically Disadvantaged Businesses
The 8(a) Program was created in 1974 to help minority and other small, disadvantaged businesses (SDBs) to grow through a program of federal contracting preferences and set- asides. Through the 8(a) Program, eligible firms can be awarded government contracts on a sole-source, noncompetitive basis. The program is named for the section of the Small Business Act that authorizes its policies and procedures.
Federal Certification for Minority Owned Businesses
Description| Benefits | Eligibility Requirements
Description
The 8(a) business development program is a great opportunity for small businesses to get their foot in the door with federal contracting. The program is designed to give preference to 8(a) certified businesses when awarding contracts, and the total number of certified firms has ranged from 5,000 to 6,000 in recent years. This can help a small business grow by cutting the government red tape normally associated with federal contracts. Atlas Business is a leading fiduciary service provider for the 8(a) Certification. The 8(a) Program regulations dictate that a company can only participate once. So, it’s highly recommended that you speak with one of our experts to determine eligibility, and if it is in your company’s best interest to become certified.
BENEFITS | ELIGIBILITY
Eligibility
Small, For-Profit company according to SBA standards
Registered in SAM, the System for Award Management
US Citizen(s) Must Own at least 51% of the Business
Majority Owned and Controlled by Socially* and Economically Disadvantaged Individual(s)**
Dedicated SBA Liaison
Specialist to help navigate and coach in federal contracting
Company demonstrates the potential for success
Control Individual(s) Personal Net Worth must be $850K or less, with Adjusted Gross Income of $400K or less, and $6.5M or less in assets
Boost GSA Schedule Effectiveness
Simplified procurement and set-aside goals
Benefits
Set-Aside & Sole-Source Awards
Access contracting opportunities not available to others
10% Pricing Preference Advantage
Pricing may be 10% above market price
9-Year Certification
Most businesses graduate in year 6 or 7 as a result of accelerated business transition to a large business concern
FEMA Contracts
Receive rapid awards in case of emergency
Increased Federal Spending
SBD spending goal raised from 5% to 15%
Joint Ventures / Mentor Protégé
Industry mentor, JV, and subcontracting opportunities
Showcase you 8(a) certified logo for marketing
Website, Storefront, Vehicles, Marketing Materials, etc.
What Can I expect once awarded the 8(a)?
The access to the items below will accelerate your growth in the government market.
TRAINING
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
CANDIDATE FOR TO 8(A) SOLICITATIONS
Your firm will receive access to 8(a) BD set-aside government procurements NOW that you are a candidate.
SECURE BONDING
If your company requires bonding, you’ll receive secure and guaranteed surety bonding through SBA.
COUNSELING SERVICE
The company will gain access to custom industry and business counseling services from your assigned government 8(a) BD Certification Officer.
GOV’T MENTORSHIP
The company will be assigned a Government Contract Officer and Industry Mentor to assist the efficient utilization of your 8(a) Business Development Certification until you graduate the program.
Once awarded and accepted into the 8(a) program, the company gain access to assistance with marketing, management, and financial planning. Additionally, they will be paired with a mentor who can provide developmental guidance and advice. The 8(a) Business Development Program is an excellent resource for small businesses looking to overcome past challenges and scale their operations. Atlas Business Consulting & Development, LLC is a leading provider for fulfillment of this tedious effort.
8(a) Certification
BRONZE
Program
8(a) Certification
Process - Award
SAM & DSBS Registration | Optimization
$5,000 Value
8(a) Certification SILVER
Program
8(a) Certification
Process - Award
Capability Statement
2 hours 1-to-1 Government
Contracting Consulting
SAM & DSBS Registration | Optimization
$6,400 Value
8(a) Certification
GOLD
Program
8(a) Certification
Process - Award
Capability Statement
5 Hours of 1-to-1 Government Contracting Consulting
G.U.I.D.E. Report
(Government Utilization Industry Data Examination)
SAM Registration | Optimization
$8,150 Value | (BEST VALUE)
My company only requires the federal certification
If you’ve decided to discuss our government contracting services at a later date, have already completed the necessary registration, and are confident that they are complete, compliant, comprehensive, and competitive. That’s great, and we have the help you need!! While we highly recommend that your government readiness is established by a professional who understands your company, your industry , and the government requirements, you may elect to have Atlas complete your certification alone.