This document summarizes the SBA 8(a) Business Development Program application process. It outlines the eligibility criteria including social and economic disadvantage requirements. It describes the 9-year term and developmental/transitional stages. The document provides details on ownership and control requirements and lists the forms and financial/corporate information needed to complete the application. Resources for additional information are also listed.

1. SBA 8(a) Application Process SERVICE CORPS OF RETIRED EXECUTIVES (SCORE) April 27, 2011

4. What is the 8(a) Business Development Program?

5. 8(a)BD Program Objectives (Sec. 204 of Public Law 100-656) to promote the business development of small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals…” “ to promote the competitive viability of such concerns…” “ to clarify and expand the program for procurement by the United States…”

7. Eligibility Criteria

9. Socially disadvantaged individuals are persons who have been subjected to racial or ethnic prejudice or cultural bias because of their identities as members of groups, without regard to individual qualities.

10. Economic Disadvantage

11. Economically disadvantaged individuals are Economically disadvantaged individuals whose ability to compete in the free enterprise system has been impaired due to diminished capital and credit.