Federal Registrations & Certifications
8(a) Business Development Program
The 8(a) Business Development Program, administered by the SBA, empowers small businesses owned by economically and socially disadvantaged individuals to access exclusive federal contracting opportunities. From set-aside and sole-source contracts to expert mentorship and business development resources, 8(a) certification is a strategic tool for long-term federal success.
At Landmark Federal Solutions, we provide end-to-end support—guiding you through every step of the certification process to ensure your business is eligible, compliant, and positioned for federal growth.
Why the 8(a) Program Matters
The U.S. government aims to award at least 5% of federal contracting dollars—around $25 billion annually—to 8(a)-certified businesses. With this certification, your business can:
- Receive sole-source contracts directly from contracting officers
- Compete in limited-solicitation pools
- Form joint ventures with large firms under the SBA Mentor-Protégé Program
- Access specialized business development support from the SBA
Key Benefits of 8(a) Certification
- Access to federal set-aside and sole-source contracts
- Eligibility for the SBA Mentor-Protégé Program
- Enhanced subcontracting opportunities with primes
- Dedicated SBA Business Opportunity Specialist support
- Free access to training, counseling, and development programs
- Ability to joint venture with larger firms
- Increased market visibility as a Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB)
Do You Qualify for the 8(a) Program?
To be eligible, your business must:
- Be a small business under SBA size standards
- Be at least 51% owned and controlled by U.S. citizens who are economically and socially disadvantaged
- Be managed by the disadvantaged owner(s)
- Demonstrate good character among all principals
- Not have previously participated in the 8(a) program
- Show the capacity to perform on federal contracts
Economic criteria include:
- Personal net worth under $850,000
- Average adjusted gross income under $400,000 (over 3 years)
- Total assets under $6.5 million
How Long Does 8(a) Certification Last?
- Certification Period: Up to 9 years
- Annual Reviews: Required to maintain eligibility
- Contracting Limits: Up to $100 million or 5x SBA size standard (based on NAICS)
Why Choose Landmark Federal Solutions?
Getting certified is only the beginning—navigating the process and staying compliant is critical. Our expert team helps you:
- Assess Eligibility
- Collect & Verify Required Documentation
- Submit a Compliant SBA Application
- Align SAM.gov & Business Profiles
- Maintain Your 8(a) Status through strategic compliance support
Note: 8(a) certification is valid for up to 9 years—but only if your business remains eligible and compliant. This includes annual reviews, continued social and economic disadvantage status, and timely updates to SBA records. Landmark Federal Solutions helps you maintain your standing throughout the entire program lifecycle.
