SBA revises 8(a) program rules for social disadvantage presumption

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is amending its 8(a) Business Development Program regulations, effective September 10, 2026. The revised rule removes the rebuttable presumption of social disadvantage for individuals in certain designated groups within individually-owned firms, requiring new standards for establishing disadvantage. This change aligns the program with constitutional requirements and legal precedent, though it does not impact entity-owned small businesses.