The government procurement process is often complex, involving rigorous protocols and stringent regulations to ensure the ethical use of public funds, and to deliver maximum value to the taxpayer. While there are a multitude of contracting options that the federal government can choose to procure the goods and services they need, the 8(a) program is one avenue that can assist public sector teams through that process more effectively and efficiently.
While the 8(a) program is often known to help new businesses establish themselves, the program also often contains some small businesses that are in the later stage with extensive past performance. These experienced 8(a) companies provide the best of both worlds—they can help public sector teams benefit from the streamlined contracting options and provide the experience and expertise needed to help meet mission objectives.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)’s 8(a) Business Development program is a robust 9-year program that helps companies that are owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. Through this program, the SBA provides training and technical assistance aimed at helping companies successfully grow and compete in the U.S. economy.
As members of the 8(a) program, participants can compete on and receive set-aside and sole-source contracts. This streamlined contracting avenue ensures that government agencies have access to credible and reliable small businesses. The program also provides the opportunity for small businesses to participate in mentor-protégé relationships and create joint ventures with larger, established companies to help them grow their businesses.
Here are four major reasons public sector teams would want to partner with an experienced, certified 8(a) small business:
One of the main benefits of partnering with an experienced 8(a) small business is the opportunity to award sole-source contracts. This streamlines the procurement process by eliminating the lengthy and often cumbersome traditional competitive bidding process. With direct-award contracts, government agencies can quickly obtain the goods and services they need with a pre-approved vendor, saving valuable time and resources. 8(a) direct awards can also be particularly beneficial in situations requiring rapid response or the quick implementation of specialized services.
While many 8(a) businesses join the program right when they start out, others wait until they have considerable experience under their belt to reap the benefits of the program. These companies, like PVM, are the sweet spot.
When you partner with an experienced 8(a) company that is still small, but is past its first few years of business with a successful history of past performance, you not only can reap the benefits of direct-award contracts like avoiding lengthy bidding processes and reducing administrative burdens, but you can also be more confident in the company's abilities due to their extensive past performance and experience.
Many government contracts and programs require public sector teams to meet certain small business contracting goals. For example, the U.S. executive branch released a new government-wide goal in October 2023 for 15% of federal procurement dollars to be awarded to small, disadvantaged businesses by 2025.
Partnering with an experienced 8(a) can help individual teams meet their small business goals and align with the government's commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in federal contracting while also ensuring you have chosen the right partner with considerable experience to help you accomplish your mission objectives.
4. Broaden Problem Solving Techniques with a Diverse Mindset
Partnering with an 8(a) small business provides the government with an opportunity to broaden the way they approach solving challenges. Working with a diverse group of people opens the possibilities for more innovative thinking.
By tapping into a pool of talent with a range of background and experiences, public sector teams can foster an environment where varied perspectives converge to address complex issues. This enhances the quality of decision-making and results in more comprehensive, well-rounded solutions. PVM, as a certified black- and service-disabled veteran-owned small business, brings a unique and diverse approach to problem-solving, resulting in more effective outcomes for government agencies.
In conclusion, public sector teams can tap into the benefits of partnering with an experienced 8(a) small business and maximize their contracting goals. By partnering with an established small business, federal agencies can streamline the procurement process, gain access to a diverse pool of talent and solutions, and fulfill small business contracting goals—all while being confident they are working with companies that can help them meet their mission objectives.
As a certified 8(a) business with extensive experience delivering digital services, PVM is uniquely positioned to provide tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of public sector teams. Our team has over 13 years of experience in data analysis and digital services, successfully tackling complex challenges faced by federal agencies in public health, defense, law enforcement, intelligence, and more.
Learn more about PVM's capabilities here.