Who is the United States 8(a) Trade Association?

We are a nonprofit trade association that focus on Diversity Business specificially 8(a) companies and usually they are underserved and underutilized owned business owners.  This association is a VOICE for the Diversity community that allows the Diversity community access to the Federal Government, Legislators and Federal Government procurement processes.


Who can Join the 8(a) Trade Association?

A Certified company must be approved by the United States Small Business Administration (SBA)


What are some benefits as a 8(a) Trade Association Member?

Some of the benefits includes:

  • Group Insurance rate
  • 401k
  • Legal Support Services
  • TeleHealth Support Services
  • Financial Support Services

Why should you become a member of the 8(a) Trade Association?

First, it takes a "TEAM" to become successful.  Our trade association assist with compliance, bidding tools, networking with buyers and other vendors.  Also, our trade association provides additional professional support that may help your business grow.


Who certify your business for the 8(a) program and the length of time?

The United States Small Business Administration (SBA) agency.  It is a 9 year program.  However, the SBA may graduate the 8(a) vendor early based upon some restrictions.


What are some of the tools available for members?

Some of the tools are:

  • Bidding tools access to local, state and federal buyers.  Also, the government prime contractors that seek diversity compliance.
  • Auction
  • Procurement Matching services
  • CEO Roundtable

Are there any support resources?

Yes, there are more resources available such and Legal, Finance, CPA Support services, CEO Roundtable and much more.


Are there any special discounts and incentives available for members?

Yes, there are special discounts and incentives.  For example, the group insurance plans offer major discounts on products and services by our approved affiliate licensed certified independent agents.


What is required to qualify as a 8(a) Certified Company?

  • Be a small business

  • Not already have participated in the 8(a) program

  • Be at least 51 percent owned and controlled by U.S. citizens who are economically and socially disadvantaged

  • Be owned by someone whose personal net worth is $250,000 or less

  • Be owned by someone whose average adjusted gross income for three years is $250,000 or less

  • Be owned by someone with $4 million or less in assets

  • Have the owner manage day-to-day operations and also make long-term decisions

  • Have all its principals demonstrate good character

  • Show potential for success and be able to perform successfully on contracts


What are some of the 8(a) Certified benefits?

To help provide a level playing field for small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged people or entities, the government limits competition for certain contracts to businesses that participate in the 8(a) Business Development program.

Disadvantaged businesses in the 8(a) program can:

  • Compete for set-aside and sole-source contracts in the program

  • Get a Business Opportunity Specialist to help navigate federal contracting

  • Form joint ventures with established businesses through the SBA's mentor-protégé program

  • Receive management and technical assistance, including business training, counseling, marketing assistance, and high-level executive development


What type of contracts are available for 8(a) companies?

There are two kinds of set-aside contracts: (1) competitive set-asides and (2) sole-source set-asides.


What is a 8(a) competitive contract?

When at least two small businesses could perform the work or provide the products being purchased, the government sets aside the contract exclusively for small businesses. With few exceptions, this happens automatically for all government contracts under $150,000.

Some set-asides are open to any small business, but some are open only to small businesses who participate in SBA contracting assistance programs.


What is a Sole-source set-aside contract?

Most contracts are competitive, but sometimes there are exceptions to this rule. Sole-source contracts are a kind of contract that can be issued without a competitive bidding process. This usually happens in situations where only a single business can fulfill the requirements of a contract.

To be considered for a sole-source contract, register your business with the System for Award Management System (SAM) and participate in any contracting program you may qualify for.

In some cases, sole-source contracts must be published publicly, and will be marked with an intent to sole source. Potential vendors can still view and bid on these contracts. Once the bidding process begins, the intent to sole-source may be withdrawn.