Understanding and Leveraging 8(a) Alaskan Native Corporation, Tribal Owned, and Native Hawaiian Organization Certifications

In the world of contracting with the federal government, there are certain government run set aside programs that businesses can leverage to give themselves an edge when competing for government funding. Some of the most common set aside programs are Woman Owned Small Business (WOSB), Service Disabled Veteran Owned Business (SDVOSB), and 8(A) Business Development Program. All of these set aside programs provide unique opportunities that can be leveraged to win government contracts. 

However, within the 8(a) Business Development Program there are three classifications, which can be leveraged to provide a massive advantage: Alaskan Native Corporation, Tribal Owned, and Native Hawaiian Organization.

For many Americans, they will never be able to obtain these set aside certifications. However, that doesn’t mean that you can not benefit from them. Like large companies which are constantly on the lookout for SDVOSBs to partner with in order to win work, you too can identify ANC/NHO/Tribal Owned 8(a) companies with whom you could create a mutually beneficial government contracting relationship. Therefore, here’s some insight into U.S. government contracting trends related to 8(a) ANC, Tribal Owned, and NHO.

While these charts might feel like they are telling two entirely different stories, it is important to note that the significant decrease in sole source contract awards is 1) attributable to the significant decrease in sole source funding related to COVID, and 2) reflects the federal government’s increasing use of Best-In-Class contracts (GSA schedule, VA FSS, etc). However, rather than focusing on the total funding under sole source contracts awarded, what business owners should focus on is the fact that since 2015, total funding awarded to 8(a) Tribal entities alone has increased by ~10% annually. Regardless of who will run the next administration, it is unlikely that the emphasis on awarding federal contracts to small businesses will abate. In fact, the percentage of funding targeted towards small businesses, including all 8(a) companies, is likely to increase.

If you aren't a Squared Compass partner, what are you waiting for? From getting your business set up with specific government set aside programs at both the State and Federal level, to being empowered by a Fractional Capture team to win government contracts, to receiving tailored government contract opportunities Squared Compass delivers immense value which helps propel our partners to success. Schedule a chat with our team today.