GovCon Acronym Decoder
Government contracting runs on shorthand. Search any acronym and get a plain-English definition, when you will run into it, whether you need one, and where it comes from.
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3 of 172 terms matching "8(a)"
8(a) Business Development Program
A nine-year SBA development program for socially and economically disadvantaged small businesses. Participants can receive sole source and set-aside awards.
When you see it
On set-aside solicitations and in sole source awards up to specific thresholds.
Do you need it
Only if you qualify. It is the most powerful certification if you use it with a plan.
Where it comes from
SBA certification.
8(a) Business Development Program
A nine-year SBA development program for socially and economically disadvantaged small businesses. Participants can receive sole source and set-aside awards.
When you see it
On set-aside solicitations and in sole source awards up to specific thresholds.
Do you need it
Only if you qualify. It is the most powerful certification if you use it with a plan.
Where it comes from
SBA certification.
Government-Wide Acquisition Contract
A multiple award IT contract that any federal agency can order from. Examples include Alliant, VETS, and 8(a) STARS.
When you see it
On federal IT buys of nearly any size.
Do you need it
Only if you sell IT products or services. Getting on one is a competitive process of its own.
Where it comes from
GSA, NASA (SEWP), and NIH (CIO-SP) run the major GWACs.
Set-Aside
A requirement reserved for competition among a specific category of businesses, such as small business, 8(a), HUBZone, WOSB, or SDVOSB.
When you see it
In the solicitation header on SAM.gov.
Do you need it
Filtering for set-asides you qualify for is the fastest way to improve your win odds.
Where it comes from
FAR Part 19.
Related terms
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