De Lune Corp, a fast-growing multi-tier business with diverse interests, announced it has received 8(a) certification from the US federal government.
The 8(a) Business Development program derives from Section 8(a) of the Small Business Act. It authorizes the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to contract for goods and services with federal agencies which it subcontracts to socially and economically disadvantaged small businesses certified under the program.
Said President of De Lune Corp Gaddafi Ismail, “We are delighted to have acquired 8(a) certification, proving our diversity and character credentials as well as potential for future success in the federal and commercial spaces within only five years of operation. We intend to take full advantage of this opportunity over the next 9 years to gain equitable access to contracting opportunities in the federal marketplace.”
As an 8(a) certified small business, De Lune Corp will now be able to compete for set-aside and sole-source contracts and pursue opportunity for mentorships from more experienced firms. The organization will receive training and technical assistance to strengthen its ability to compete against larger competitors. It will be expected to maintain a balance between its commercial and government sector business.
As an 8(a) certified organization De Lune Corp will also be able to form joint ventures to increase capacity and bid on contracts. This will augment its capacity to perform larger prime contracts and overcome the effects of contract bundling.
The nine-year long 8(a) Business Development program consists of two stages. The first four years, known as the developmental stage, is for the firms to overcome their economic disadvantage by expanding their business and fostering meaningful business relationships by use of the assistance provided. The last five years or transitional stage involves firms improving effectiveness in dealing with complex business deals in both the large business and government sectors. This is in preparation for post-8(a) program growth.
About De Lune Corp
De Lune Corp is a multi-tier organization with diverse interests, ranging from agricultural commodities and energy to healthcare and IT, with specialties in supply chain efficiency and tailored logistics.
About 8(a) Business Development program
The 8(a) Business Development program provides the federal government a means of ensuring at least 5% of all federal contracting dollars are awarded to small disadvantaged businesses each year. Eligibility criteria to qualify for the program include being a small business (certified by the Small Business Administration), minimum 51% ownership and control by US citizens belonging to socially and economically disadvantaged groups and demonstration of good character and potential for success. 8(a) participants are expected to maintain eligibility through the duration of the program with annual reviews required.
About SBA
The U.S. Small Business Administration was created in 1953 with a mandate to aid, counsel, assist and protect the interests of small business concerns, preserve free competitive enterprise and maintain and strengthen the overall economy of the United Sates of America. SBA functions as an independent agency of the federal government.
