7(j) Training Sessions will be available soon

Basic Training

The Small Business Administration has contracted through its 7(j) program to provide a series of business training sessions on Cost and Pricing, Accounting Systems, Indirect Costs and Rates, Cost Proposals and Relationship Skills.

Background

Section 7(j) (1) of the Small Business Act, 15 U.S.C. 636 (j) (1) authorizes the SBA to enter into grants or contracts with public or private sector organizations to provide specialized business development assistance and training, professional consultant assistance, and high-level executive development to qualified 8(a) Participants as well as other small disadvantaged businesses, low-income entrepreneurs, and small businesses that are located in labor-surplus areas or areas with a high proportion of low-income individuals

Vision for Fiscal Year 2009

During Fiscal Year 2009, the SBA will provide a broad range of management and technical assistance utilizing the 7(j) funded vehicle.  The training will consist of a vast array of business development training within each of SBA’s district offices.  In an effort to assist 7(j) eligible concerns access global markets and increase their competitive viability in the federal marketplace, specialized training in the areas of international trade and marketing strategies for federal contracting will be offered.  The approximately 9,000 8(a) firms that participate in the 8(a) Business Development Program will be the primary targeted audience for the 7(j) training that is slated to take place across the country. 

Targeted Management and Technical Assistance

The technical assistance will be provided in 100 classroom settings in every district office’s territory as well 10 major metropolitan areas with a high proportion of low-income individuals.  The technical assistance will also provide International Trade leads to all 9000 plus 8(a) firms on a real time basis individual counseling on International Trade for 100 8(a) firms representing every state.

Course Materials

A publication will also be given to every 8(a) firm that will increase their knowledge of how the government works and how to optimize the utilization of the network of business development assistance that is available to 8(a) firms.  The publication will also provide insights of business development service providers and 8(a) graduates that have been successful in the program.

Training Workshops

 

Project Description

SBA’s Office of Business Development has engaged a contractor to conduct approximately 100 workshops nationwide to 8(a) firms and other 7(j) eligible concerns. The workshop is entitled “Keys to Success: The 7(j) Management and Technical Assistance Program Workshop Series for Small Disadvantaged Business.” Specific training within this series includes workshop on the following topics: 
           1)  Cost and Pricing - Level 1
           2)  Cost and Pricing - Level 2
           3)  Financial Management for Small Businesses
           4)  Business Development for the Small Business: Managing Success in the 8(a) Business Development Program - Part 1 - Successful Business Practices
           5)  Business Development for the Small Business: Managing Success in the 8(a) Business Development Program - Part 2 - Successful Government Contracting   Principles.
           6)  Mentor Protégé Agreements

International Trade

An electronic database will match international trade leads with 8(a) businesses based on the company’s industry and/or country specific needs.  The international trade leads will provide an opportunity for 8(a) firms to identify potential contract opportunities as well as forge alliances and develop new business leads in the global markets