8(a) Graduation

Definition

8(a) graduation occurs when a firm completes its 9-year term in the SBA 8(a) Business Development Program. Firms may also exit early if they exceed size standards, the owner's net worth exceeds $850K (excluding primary residence and business equity), or program violations occur. After graduation, the firm retains SDB status but loses 8(a) sole-source and competitive set-aside eligibility.

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