Ever wondered if you meet the eligibility requirements for the 8(a) Business Development program? Find out now as Nancy walks you through the program eligibility requirements. SBA's 8a program has helped thousands of businesses succeed. Do you need a mentor? The 8a program has it's own Mentor Protege Program. Do you need training? SBA provides CEO level training as part of this program. One of the benefits of the 8a program is that small disadvantaged businesses can obtain sole source contracts. Yes, that is right. Sole Source contracts that do not require you to compete!!! This is one of the best programs that the Small Business Administration (SBA) administers.