Best 8a Certification & 8a Information Source is 8a Magazine

8a Magazine’s content is provided by the federal and state certification and contracting industry experts of ez8a, Advance GSA, Government Marketing, Advance 8a and Fedvital, as well as guest contributors that are at the top of their field. Aspiring 8a Articles are designed to focus on the advantages a firm can realize by pursuing the SBA’s 8a Certification. While our articles highlight different aspects of the certification process, further exploration of the subject matter or even issues that we have yet to discuss (or haven’t discussed in a while) may be at the top of your mind. Click ‘Ask An Expert’ to send a note directly to our resident Aspiring 8a Expert, Todd Luttenegger. From there, Todd can help answer any questions your firm may have concerning the 8a Certification process. Ask an Expert

The Power of SBA Certifications in Federal Contracting

In today’s competitive federal contracting market, small businesses need every edge they can get. One of the most effective ways to stand out is by obtaining certifications through the U.S..... View More

Aspiring 8a

by Emily Hatchel
Thursday, April 9th 2026

Tap Into 70% of the Federal Market with the Right Strategy

Are you a small business looking to tap into the vast federal market, but unsure where to start? Success in federal contracting requires a combination of factors including being in the.... View More

Aspiring 8a

by Todd Luttenegger
Thursday, April 2nd 2026

Why Your Business Can

A few years ago, I met a small business owner—let’s call her Maria—who ran a civil engineering firm out of rural Georgia. She was brilliant, had great clients, and was just trying.... View More

Aspiring 8a

by Todd Luttenegger
Thursday, March 26th 2026

71% Federal Win Rate - The Power of 8(a) + GSA Schedules

When examining how the SBA 8(a) Program and the GSA Schedule interact, one of the most revealing indicators is how much federal spending flows through 8(a) set-asides on the Schedule.... View More

Aspiring 8a

by Jesse Dunbar
Thursday, March 19th 2026

DoD Noncompetitive Contracts Hit Record Highs Despite White House Rhetoric: A Guide for Small Business

While Secretary Hegseth and President Trump demand open competition, the actual data prove the Pentagon is increasingly turning to sole-source awards. Here is how your small business can capitalize.... View More

Aspiring 8a

by Todd Luttenegger
Thursday, March 12th 2026

5% Federal Contracting Set-Aside: Why 8(a) Certification is a Game Changer

Obtaining an 8(a) Certification can be a game-changer for small businesses seeking to secure federal contracts. This exclusive program, designed to help disadvantaged businesses compete in the federal.... View More

Aspiring 8a

by Jesse Dunbar
Thursday, March 5th 2026

Are You Leaving Federal Contracts on the Table? The GSA Gap Explained

Industry experts such as ez8a and Advance GSA help companies obtain the four major SBA certifications for securing federal contracts. In doing so, they advise their clients on the importance of focusing on.... View More

Aspiring 8a

by Todd Luttenegger
Thursday, February 26th 2026

Federal Business Alert: 25% Drop in 8(a) Firms Creates Massive Opportunity

It’s hard to believe that a government program where the average firm makes over $5 Million per year in federal contracts is in dire need of new applicants but this is the position the program is finding itself in.... View More

Aspiring 8a

by Emily Hatchel
Thursday, February 19th 2026

0.1% of Small Businesses in Your Area Engage This Federal Market

GSA Schedules are used all across America. I analyzed the largest 100 metro areas and found that only a tiny fraction of small businesses take advantage of this opportunity. Fewer than.... View More

Aspiring 8a

by Mark Ryan
Thursday, February 12th 2026

Why do 8(a) Firms Load Up on NAICS Codes?

Most small businesses operating in the federal marketplace list just 3 to 5 NAICS codes—a tight cluster that reflects their core capabilities. But 8(a) firms? That’s a completely different story. The average 8(a) participant lists.... View More

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