Set-Aside Programs
8(a) Set-Aside Contracts: Finding Opportunities as a Certified Business
Last updated:
The 8(a) Business Development Program is one of the most powerful tools available to disadvantaged small businesses. Certified 8(a) firms compete in a restricted pool — dramatically improving odds of winning federal contracts.
What Is an 8(a) Set-Aside Contract?
An 8(a) set-aside is a federal contract solicitation restricted to businesses certified under the SBA's 8(a) Business Development Program. When an agency designates a contract as "8(a) sole source" or "8(a) competitive," only certified 8(a) firms can bid — eliminating competition from the broader market.
The program was created to help businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals gain a foothold in the federal marketplace. Certified firms participate for a nine-year term, during which they receive targeted contracting assistance, mentoring, and business development support. In FY2024, the 8(a) Program remains a major federal contracting pathway for small disadvantaged businesses, but certification does not guarantee awards.
Who Qualifies for 8(a) Status?
- The business must be at least 51% owned and controlled by one or more socially disadvantaged U.S. citizens
- The owner's personal net worth must be under $850,000 (excluding home equity and business equity)
- Adjusted gross income must be under $400,000 on a three-year average
- Total assets cannot exceed $6.5 million (per SBA)
- The business must qualify as small under its primary NAICS code
- The owner must be involved in day-to-day management
Members of certain groups are presumed to be socially disadvantaged: Black Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, Asian Pacific Americans, and Subcontinent Asian Americans. Others can qualify by demonstrating social disadvantage through a written narrative.
How to Find 8(a) Set-Aside Opportunities on SAM.gov
On SAM.gov, filter by:
- Go to Contract Opportunities
- Click Filters
- Under Set-Aside Type, select 8(a) Competitive and/or 8(a) Sole Source
- Add your NAICS code to narrow to your industry
On EasyGov, click the 8(a) filter button on the dashboard to instantly see only 8(a) set-aside opportunities. The AI summary for each opportunity confirms the set-aside type upfront.
Browse 8(a) opportunities on EasyGov →Top Agencies Awarding 8(a) Contracts
Based on USASpending.gov historical data, the largest 8(a) contract awarders include:
- Department of Defense — Army, Navy, Air Force, DLA collectively award the largest share of 8(a) dollars
- Department of Homeland Security
- Department of Health and Human Services
- Department of Justice
- GSA (General Services Administration)
Related Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the solo source limit for 8(a) contracts?
Under FAR 19.805-1, sole-source 8(a) contracts can be awarded up to $5.5 million for services and goods, and up to $8.5 million for manufacturing contracts. Above these thresholds, the work must be competed among 8(a) firms.
How long does it take to get 8(a) certified?
Once SBA determines an 8(a) application is complete, SBA has 90 days to process the application and render a decision. Incomplete applications or requests for additional documentation can extend the practical timeline significantly. You'll need to submit extensive documentation including personal financial statements, business financials, ownership documentation, and narrative responses.
Can I lose my 8(a) status?
Yes. Your 8(a) certification is valid for 9 years, but the SBA can terminate it if you no longer meet program requirements, fail to file annual reports, or don't make satisfactory progress in business development. The program is designed as a developmental program, not a permanent status.
Can I subcontract if I'm an 8(a) firm?
Yes, but with limits. On 8(a) set-aside contracts for services, you must perform at least 50% of the work with your own employees. For products, you must perform at least 50% of the cost of manufacturing. Exceeding the subcontracting limits can affect your program participation.