SBA 8(a) Business Development Program
U.S. Small Business Administration
Eligibility
Socially and economically disadvantaged small business owners; 9-year program providing mentorship and access to sole-source contracts.
Award
Sole-source contract eligibility up to $7M (goods) / $4.5M (services)
Deadlines
Rolling · Rolling
Notes
Vets with service-related disabilities often qualify on socioeconomic grounds.
Related programs on the Small Business path
These share at least one format type with this program and fit the same path.
SBA HUBZone Program
U.S. Small Business Administration
Business located in a HUBZone (historically underutilized) area with 35%+ HUBZone employees.
SDVOSB Certification (VetCert)
SBA Office of Veterans Business Development
Service-disabled veteran (10%+ rating) with 51%+ ownership and control of the business. Self-certification ended in 2026 — SBA VetCert is now the only path.
VOSB Certification
SBA Office of Veterans Business Development
Veteran-owned (51%+) and controlled small business; no service-disability requirement.