Construction and Information Technology are the two industries that come to mind when most people think about the SBA’s 8(a) BD Program.

Facilities Support Services, whose size has more than doubled in the last 15 years, has emerged as a major 8(a) industry winner. The definition of facilities support services is provided below. Check to determine if any of these tasks are carried out by your small business.

561210 Facilities Support Services

This sector consists of businesses whose main activity is the provision of operating people to carry out a variety of support tasks inside the facilities of a client. The majority of businesses in this sector offer a variety of services to support facility operations, including janitorial, maintenance, trash removal, guard and security, mail routing, reception, laundry, and associated services. The operating personnel for these facilities is responsible for completing these support tasks; nevertheless, they are not involved in or in charge of the client's main operations or activities. This industry includes businesses that offer support services for facilities, with the exception of those that deal with computers and/or data processing, as well as businesses that operate jails or private detention centers under a contract or for a fee.

8(a) Facilities Support Services Growth

The federal government awards small businesses contracts in practically every industry where 8(a) firms operate. While their development may not be as significant as that of Facilities Support Services, other industries can nevertheless present excellent prospects for 8(a) firms. If you are interested in exploring your small businesses’ eligibility and potential being 8(a) certified, I always recommend contacting an industry expert such as ez8a or Advance 8a. Neither charge for an initial consultation.