Mar 11th 2008, 07:24

Aid For Small Businesses Near The Edge

Get a fighting chance to survive in the business arena

The business world has its ups and downs, and if you’re just entering, you’d mostly experience many of the downs; unless you’re exceptionally talented.  Unfortunately, many businesses that start, especially those that don’t have much to offer, eventually shut down in a year or less.

If you think you’re at a disadvantage in your business, apply for the Small Disadvantaged Businesses (SDB), consisting of the ‘Business Development Program’ and the ‘Small Disadvantaged Business Certification Program.’  The SDB Certification is particularly limited to the benefits of federal procurement. Qualifying for the Business Development Program automatically qualifies you to the Certification.

Under the Business Development Program, you become an SDB firm, which opens you to all of the benefits.  These benefits include the Business Opportunity Specialist (BOS) assistance, limited competition contracts, sole source awards, negotiated terms, training, and the Mentor-Protégé Program; which allows your firm to team up with a stronger firm, inspiring growth in the process.

SDB certifications run up to 3 years but firms can reapply.  Approval time is completed in 45 days on average.  If declined, reconsiderations may be made within 45 days from the date of service of the decline letter.

To be eligible, you must be a U.S. citizen who is socially and economically disadvantaged, owning a small business at the same time.  Tribes like Alaskan Native Corporations and Native Hawaiian organizations under the same conditions are also eligible.

If you wish to apply for the SDB Certification, go to:
www.sba.gov/aboutsba/sbaprograms/sdb/apply/index.html

Other information regarding SBD is available here:
www.sba.gov/aboutsba/sbaprograms/sdb/index.html

 

 

To Do List: - Suggested Links:

1. Increase Your Income:
   Get an online degree with financial aid from the government.
2. Consolidate Your Bills:
   Student Loans - Credit Card Debts - Refinance Home
3. Reward Yourself:
   Get a new computer for free.
4. Get some cash you don’t have to pay back:
   Government has money for almost any worthwhile need.
5. Bargain prices on government auctions
   Discounts on foreclosed property, liquidations, surplus items