For nearly a year, many small business owners have been asking the same question: “Should I wait to apply for the SBA’s 8(a) Business Development Program?”

Based on recent testimony before Congress, the answer now is likely no.

During a House Appropriations oversight hearing, SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler stated that the agency is working through comments on proposed 8(a) reforms and is hopeful that application processing can return to normal “within the next couple of months.”

While no one can guarantee exactly when approvals will resume, one thing is certain:

Preparing a strong 8(a) application takes time.

Why Waiting Could Cost You

Many business owners assume they can start preparing their application after the SBA begins approving firms again.

The reality: gathering financial records, corporate documents, ownership information, narratives, and supporting documentation typically takes about a month from the time you begin.

If approvals start moving again this fall — likely early September — companies that began preparing in July and August will be ready to submit complete applications well before those just getting started.

Demand Should Increase Dramatically

The 8(a) portfolio is at a record low — roughly 4,000 active firms and shrinking. When the SBA resumes processing, expect a wave of businesses rushing to get in. The firms that prepared early will carve out their niche while everyone else is still waiting on the sidelines.

$5 Million + Average annual revenue for 8(a) firms — split between sole-source and set-aside contracts.

The 8(a) Program Still Matters

Certification opens the door to sole-source awards, set-aside competition, and long-term relationships with federal agencies — advantages that continue to make 8(a) one of the most valuable programs in government contracting.

Don’t Wait to Prepare

A successful 8(a) application requires planning, documentation, and careful preparation. The best first step is simply to find out whether your firm qualifies. If you have interest in being 8(a) certified, I always recommend contacting an industry expert such as ez8a. In about 10 minutes, they can walk you through the requirements and potential that it could bestow on your small business, and you can make that determination together. They do not charge for this initial consultation.