Which program is best for my business? 8(a) or SDB

Take our free pre-qualifying Interview today to see what SBA program you are potentially qualified for.

If your adjusted net worth is more than $250K, but less than $750K, you qualify for SDB certification, but not for the 8(a)BD program.

If you and your immediate family members own more than a ten percent interest in another existing 8(a)BD company, you qualify for SDB certification, but probably not for the 8(a)BD program.

If another non-8(a)BD company that operates in the same or similar line of business as your 8(a)BD applicant company owns 10% or more of your business, you can qualify for SDB certification, but probably not for the 8(a)BD program.

If your company has not been in business, operating in your selected primary business area for at least two years prior to your application for the 8(a)BD certification, you are still eligible for the SDB program, but not for the 8(a)BD program, unless you request and receive a waiver.

If you can't produce tax returns for the two years prior to your 8(a)BD application that clearly show revenues in your primary business area, you can qualify for the SDB certification, but not the 8(a)BD program.

If you can't demonstrate reasonable prospects for success in competing in the private sector if admitted to the 8(a)BD program, then you will be denied access to this program, but still be eligible for the SDB program. In assessing your potential for success, the SBA shall consider, among other factors, your access to credit and capital, including but not limited to long-term financing, access to working capital financing, equipment trade credit, access to raw materials and supplier trade credit and bonding capability, if applicable. P.S. If you haven't completed a business plan for your company, forget it!

If you can't claim or demonstrate that you, your principals and your company are of good morale character, then you will be denied 8(a)BD certification, whereas, there is no equivalent request for this claim or associated data from you and your team for the SDB certification.

If you can meet all of the above conditions, we at EZCertify.com strongly suggest that you attempt 8(a)BD certification. However, if you're a relatively young company, just starting out, lacking a business plan, contract experience, adequate financing, demonstrated business management skills and other key success factors, then we also strongly suggest that you opt for the SDB certification. It's a great training ground for new Federal Government contractors. You'll even be a more attractive business partner for the "big guys". When you're ready, the 8(a)BD program will be there and the information that you've loaded into the EZCertify 8(a)/SDB program software will transfer automatically to prepare your 8(a)BD application.

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