Overview
This section outlines the authority for federal agencies to award contracts to the Small Business Administration (SBA) specifically for performance by certified 8(a) program participants.
Key Rules
- Contracting Party: Legal contracts are awarded to the SBA, which then subcontracts the work to eligible 8(a) participants.
- Award Methods: Acquisitions can be conducted on either a sole source or a competitive basis.
- Eligibility: Participation is restricted to firms currently certified in the SBA 8(a) Business Development Program.
- Regulatory Reference: The specific procedures and requirements for these awards are governed by FAR Subpart 19.8.
Practical Implications
- Contracting officers can use this program to quickly meet small business socioeconomic goals through direct, sole-source negotiations with 8(a) firms (within established thresholds).
- It serves as a critical flexibility for agencies to streamline the acquisition process while supporting the development of small disadvantaged businesses.