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New SBA 8(a) Guidance Signals Shift in Interpretation of Who Is ‘Socially and Economically Disadvantaged’
On January 22, 2026, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) issued policy guidance indicating that it will administer its 8(a) business development program on a strictly neutral basis going forward. The guidance reflects a significant change in how the agency interprets and applies the statutory requirement that participating firms be owned and controlled by “socially and economically disadvantaged” individuals.
