8(a) BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

Section 8(a) Program

The 8(a) Program is intended to be used exclusively for business development purposes to help small businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals to compete on an equal basis in the mainstream of the American economy. This is the only program where the SBA staff works "hands-on" to help develop a small business. Our 8(a) relationship with a client can last up to nine years.

"Post-Adarand" changes in regulations are expected to result in increased levels of application and program participation - up to 50% more clients over the next two years. The 8(a) program is not for start-up businesses. A company must be in business for two years, waivers of this requirement are possible. To be eligible for the 8(a) program participation, a small business concern must be at least 51% owned, controlled and daily operated by one or more socially and economically disadvantaged persons. Black Americans, Native Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asian Pacific Americans, and Subcontinent Asian Americans have been predetermined to be socially disadvantaged. Individuals not a member of a presumed group must establish his/her social disadvantage on the basis of the "preponderance of the evidence." In addition, the individual(s) upon whom eligibility is based must be a U.S. citizen.

To determine if your firm is eligible for the program, please call our office for an 8(a) Information Packet at 614-469-6860. We have a group interview session held in the Columbus District Office on the second Thursday of each month. For reservations please call Linda Brooks at 614-469-6860 x247.

You may also find more information on the SBA 8(a) Business Development Homepage.

If you are already 8a certified go here to find helpful information.

Here is a list of current SBA Columbus District Office 8(a) Business Development staff members.