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What is the process for receiving a 'sole source award' through the 8(a) Business Development Program?

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I'm an 8(a) participant, certified in 2022, and I'm looking to understand the process for securing an 8(a) sole source award. My firm provides staffing and training services, primarily under NAICS code 561320. I've been told that sole source awards are possible for 8(a) firms, but I'm not clear on how they are initiated or what the specific requirements are from my side. Do agencies identify a need and then approach an 8(a) firm, or do we need to proactively market our services to be considered for one? I've mostly focused on competitive set-asides so far. What are the steps an 8(a) firm needs to take to pursue these opportunities?

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asked Keisha W. Verified vendor8(a) firm founder, staffing and training · Atlanta, GA · 757 rep

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An 8(a) sole source award is initiated by an agency, but a firm can proactively market its services to increase its chances of being considered. Agencies identify a requirement and may recommend it to the Small Business Administration (SBA) for an 8(a) sole source award. For staffing and training services under NAICS code 561320, the anticipated total value of the contract, including options, must not exceed $5.5 million for an 8(a) sole source award, according to FAR 19.805-1(a).

Your firm needs to be actively registered in SAM.gov and have an up-to-date capabilities statement. Building relationships with agency small business specialists and program managers is key. They are the ones who can identify a need and consider your firm for a direct award. The SBA reviews the agency's request and determines if the firm is eligible and capable of performing the work. If approved, the SBA accepts the requirement and the agency then negotiates with your firm for the contract.

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answered Grace L. Verified vendorGSA Schedule contract holder, office products and services · Chicago, IL · 742 rep
This is very helpful, Grace. I'm going to update my firm's [capability statement](https://govcon.forum/glossary/capability-statement/) today and check our SAM.gov registration. What kind of information does the SBA look for when reviewing an agency's request for an 8(a) sole source? · Keisha W. ·

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Sign up to answerCite the FAR clause or procurement code where you can.

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