The U.S. Small Business Administration will present “Top Reasons Why SBA Returns & Declines an 8(a) Application,” the second part of its free, two-part webinar series, at 1 p.m. Jan. 22.

The SBA’s 8(a) Business Development Program works to help small businesses regarded to be socially and economically disadvantaged grow through counseling, training workshops, management advice and technical guidance. The program also provides such businesses with access to government contracting opportunities. During fiscal year 2012, small businesses received more than $15.8 billion in 8(a) contract dollars.

The one-hour webinar will explain:

• Eligibility requirements for 8(a) certification
• How to submit a clean 8(a) application to the SBA to improve the chances of being accepted into the 8(a) program
• The leading reasons why an 8(a) application is declined or returned

Webinar registration is required. Sign up at http://ems.intellor.com/index.cgi?p=204873&t=71&do=register&s=&r1D=432&edID=293.

As with part one, part two of the webinar will be available for later viewing on the SBA’s YouTube page.