Independent guides · U.S. federal contracting
Compare SBA business certifications
Find out which SBA programs fit your business’s ownership, location and contracting plans. The guides explain the requirements; the worksheets help you prepare an application.
8(a) · WOSB / EDWOSB · HUBZone · VOSB / SDVOSB
A company can pursue more than one program
SBA programs at a glance
8(a)Disadvantage and operating history↗WOSB / EDWOSBWomen’s ownership and management↗HUBZoneOffice location and employee residence↗VOSB / SDVOSBVeteran status, ownership and management↗You may qualify for more than one program. SBA makes the eligibility decision.
From choosing to applying
Preparing an application
SAM registration and business size
A UEI alone is not full SAM registration. Size standards also vary by business activity.
SAM, UEI and small status ↗02Application documents
Make a checklist for your program. Keep ownership and financial documents in your own files.
Application checklist ↗03Fees and preparation costs
SBA applications and SAM registration are free. Outside assistance and preparation may cost money.
Application budget ↗Already applied or certified?
Returned applications and certification maintenance
A returned application needs a response in MySBA. Once certified, your business also has program reviews and SAM renewal to manage.
Plan your milestones ↗8(a) returned applications
The September 2026 FAQ gives covered applicants 45 days from notification to update and resubmit.
Check a company listing
Find the business in SBA Small Business Search and save a dated note of the listed status.
Maintain certification
See the review and recertification requirements for each program.
About these guides
We cover company certifications for U.S. federal contracting, from the first application through recertification. Each guide links to the official rules and application instructions.
Dated sources →Career credentials, ISO certification and state or private supplier programs are outside our scope.