What do YOU think about the future of 8(a) Certification?

Named for Section 8(a) of the Small Business Act, the 8(a) program was created to help small and disadvantaged businesses compete in the marketplace. It also helps these companies gain access to federal and private procurement markets. Learn more at http://www.sba.gov/content/8a-business-development

Some growing small business owners believe that the term “Economic Risk” as posed by SBA, should be revisited for 8A certification.They believe that SBA should provide a waiver to continue allowing 8A certification for those firms that are growing and contribute to the economy and the community by establishing good business practices and investing in their infrastructure. For example, if a small business has proven past performances for a period of three to-four years; up-to date tax returns; a facility clearance; an established line of credit; a corporate certification such an CMMI or ISO and continued sales and revenue in excess of $1-$3million after year four, that firm should be granted a special waiver to 8A Certification.

Additionally, firms that have built and maintained a subcontracting relationship with the same vendor source that have proven revenue and sales that increases the continuing success of the small business should also be a factor. The expanded rule might include a clause that “the small business is willing to invest in their own businesses as evidence to the SBA once a waiver is granted that the firm would then have the necessary tools to understand and retain itself as a crucial contributor to the economy’s growth.” This modification would encourage the small business owner to plan for their own success better, and it would help SBA support thriving small businesses and continue to add value to the ailing economy.

What do you think?

Posted by Barbara A. Gray, CEO & President of Gray Matters Technology Services- A Woman Veteran Owned Small Businessin business for seven years with core capabilities in software and database development; business process analysis and re-engineering; HelpDesk 16×5; and government contracts administration and holds a top secret facility clearance, GSA IT 70 Schedule, and pending CMMI Level 2 Certification.