SBA Business Plans: The SBA 8a Certification

Why put off getting SBA 8a certification? It is NOT that difficult to get certified if you really want to break into government contracting. And you do NOT have to pay someone else to help you fill out the form. If you can read and follow instructions, you can do it.

Where do you start with SBA 8a Certification?

There is an electronic application form at the SBA website. If you take the time to read the four steps to the Electronic Application Process, you will be prepared to complete it in the least amount of time with. Submitting the form online will usually get a response within days.  If you mail it in, it can take weeks.

Step One: Begin the SBA 8a Certification By Registering with CCR Database

The first step is to get your company registered at the federal Central Contractor Registration (CCR) The CCR database in the database is a single point of registration of suppliers and is key to simplify the procurement process.

 

Step Two: Register in the SBA general access system (GLS)

This system supports all services offered by the SBA. Two important pieces of information you need to know are (1) your Employer Identification Number(EIN) or Social Security number, and (2) a Dun & Bradstreet (DUNS) number.

The DUNS is a prerequisite for all federal contracts, and many large companies.  You can register for the DUNS number for free.  You do not need to maintain the D&B service, just hold onto the number.

Step Three: Download have signed, authenticated e-mail address and signature authorization card

This is the only part of the process that is a manual submission. It is the trigger for the SBA to begin screening and reviewing your online application. Be sure you send your Signature Authorization card to the appropriate SBA Program Certification & Eligibility address, based upon the state you are doing business.

Step Four: Begin SBA 8a Application Process via the GLS

Using your new GLS user name and password, enter your information into the application online. You do not have to complete the Application in one session.  Complete as much as possible and then save and return later. 

Have your tax returns for the last three years handy and any other important documents that you might need for reference.

The SBA does offer FAQs and an online training course to get you prepared for the application process.

Once you have submitted the application, by law, there is a 90 day response time on getting back to you. It often is reviewed a lot sooner than that.

The SBA 8(a) application is for minority business owners.  Men of all minorities may submit the application.  Women who are in a defined minority may submit applications.  Caucasian women may not be accepted.  Caucasian women must be prepared to show how they are "socially disadvantaged", and even then may not be accepted into the program.

This is an excellent program for minorities.  We encourage everyone who might qualify to submit an application to do so.

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