Episode Title: Top 3 Mistakes New 8(a) Firms Make—And How to Avoid Them

Hosts: Maya Thompson & Jason Carter

Podcast: Contracting Corner: Winning in Government Business

Length: ~30 minutes

In This Episode:

Maya and Jason unpack the top three mistakes that trip up many newly certified 8(a) firms—and provide actionable strategies to avoid them. Whether you’re just entering the federal contracting space or looking to sharpen your competitive edge, this episode delivers expert insights you can use today.

We Cover:

• Why 8(a) certification is just the starting point—not the end goal
• The critical infrastructure and compliance systems every firm needs
• How poor pricing strategies can sink your contract (and how to fix it)
• A quick guest clip from a small business owner on lessons learned
• Pro tips & common pitfalls for 8(a) success
• Listener Q&A: How to find agencies that buy what you sell

Resources Mentioned:

• SAM.gov – Federal contracting portal
• SBA.gov – 8(a) Business Development Program
• USASpending.gov – Contract award history
• FPDS.gov – Federal Procurement Data System
• PTAC Locator – Free local government contracting advisors

Next Week’s Topic:

How to Partner with Large Primes through the SBA Mentor-Protégé Program

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Disclaimer:

This podcast is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal or contracting advice.