DESCRIPTION:

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The U.S. Small Business Administration, El Paso District Office will present a webinar on the 8(a) Business Development Program with a brief discussion on the WOSB/EDWOSB, HUBZone and SDVOSB programs.   The purpose of this workshop is to:

 

• Learn about the benefits of the 8(a) program.

• How to apply for the 8(a) program

• The benefits of applying for the certifications your firm qualifies for.

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BACKGROUND: 

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Sections 7(j)(10) and 8(a) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. §§ 636(j)(10) and 637(a)) authorizes the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to establish a business development program, which is known as the 8(a) Business Development program. The 8(a) program is a robust nine-year program created to help firms owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals.

 

Businesses that participate in the program receive training and technical assistance designed to strengthen their ability to compete effectively in the American economy. Also eligible to participate in the 8(a) program are small businesses owned by Alaska Native corporations, Community Development Corporations, Indian tribes, and Native Hawaiian organizations. Small business development is accomplished by providing various forms of management, technical, financial, and procurement assistance.

 

SBA partners with federal agencies to promote maximum utilization of 8(a) program participants to ensure equitable access to contracting opportunities in the federal marketplace. Once certified, 8(a) program participants are eligible to receive federal contracting preferences and receive training and technical assistance designed to strengthen their ability to compete effectively in the American economy.

 

For more information on the 8(a) Program, visit: https://www.sba.gov/federal-contracting/contracting-assistance-programs/8a-business-development-program