Overhauling SBA 8(a) Program Eligibility Would Harm Under-Resourced Small Businesses
Statement from Alexis D’Amato Falvey, Small Business Majority Senior Director of Federal Government Affairs, on why SBA should reconsider a proposed rule that would eliminate most contracting dollars that had been set aside for firms owned by women, people of color
“Overhauling the existing framework within the 8(a) Business Development Program would harm small businesses that have historically struggled to access federal contracting dollars and have needed the most support to overcome systemic barriers to entrepreneurial success. The 8(a) program has successfully provided pathways to government contracting opportunities for countless small businesses, particularly those owned by women and people of color. But if implemented, the result of the proposed changes to 8(a) would be less competition, less product diversity and fewer small businesses with access to contracts through trusted, proven federal programs.
It’s notable that small business owners widely support programs like 8(a). In fact, Small Business Majority’s research found that 79% of small business owners are supportive of government programs that provide assistance to targeted demographic groups and 73% believe such programs should continue. And while it is fair to acknowledge that 8(a) hasn't always been perfect nor has it fulfilled all of its stated goals, the solution to those concerns is not to scrap a program that has done so much to level the playing field for small firms nationwide. Instead of finding ways to eliminate support for the most under-resourced businesses, SBA should seek out ways to fill gaps in services and expand its offerings for the small firms that are most in need of assistance in order to grow and thrive.”
About Small Business Majority
Small Business Majority is a national small business organization that empowers America's diverse entrepreneurs to build a thriving and equitable economy. We engage our network of more than 85,000 small businesses and 1,500 business and community organizations to advocate for public policy solutions and deliver resources to entrepreneurs that promote equitable small business growth. Our deep connections with the small business community along with our scientific research enable us to educate the public about key issues impacting America’s entrepreneurs, with a special focus on advancing the smallest businesses and those facing systemic inequalities. Learn more about us on our website and follow us on Twitter(X), Facebook and Instagram.