For the last 15 years the 8a program has been on a stark decline. This socio-economic program requires the government to set aside 3% of all contracts to small businesses and creates avenues in which to get it done. The once world-renowned government program turned micro businesses into major outfits during their 9-year tenure.

At its peak, the 8a program sourced 100’s of millions of dollars per year to small firms. Today that program is in jeopardy and with the help of new administration leaders like Mr. Ashley D. Bell we have hope of restoring the program to its’ days of glory.

“I always felt that a good leader listens first, and I think that spending this first year really trying to listen to 8as, understand their challenges, celebrate their successes, but really listen to them and try to figure out what we can do with what we have, to make those nine years in the program. And of course, for those that don't know, the 8a program ... That's number 8, letter A ... is only a nine-year developmental program, so you have to make the most of your time.” 9:22

Ashley D. Bell was appointed February 2018, by the White House, to serve as Regional Administrator for the US Small Business Administration, Region IV, serving nine district locations and eight southeastern states, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

Mr. Bell has begun to take action with new measures him and his team are putting together the Drive 8a to help curb that decline. “Drive 8a is a laser-targeted collaboration, a public/private partnership, if you would, between SBA and leaders in our community, graduates of our programs, participants in our programs, who are helping us fill the gap, making sure that we're meeting the challenges of right now.” (10:09)

If you, or anyone you know, is in one of these eight states, you'd better listen up. Ashley Bell is a small business owner and entrepreneur himself from age 22, and prior to this appointment, served as the associate director for external affairs, the US Peace Corps, and special assistant and the public affairs bureau of the United States Department of State.

Ashley's a graduate of Valdosta State University. He obtained his law degree from Louisiana State University and was a 21st Century Leadership Fellow at the Harvard University John F. Kennedy School of Government. In addition to that, he's got a Doctorate in intercultural and urban studies from Lighthouse College.

In today's interview, we discuss putting together a 20-year plan for all small businesses. How to continue beyond 8a, mentoring, relationships, opportunity zone funds and how small business owners should be taking advantage of them.

Mr. Bell heeds us great advice on how to be successful entrepreneurs. Listen in to hear about the great resources he suggests from the numerous SBA classes being offered, PTAC offices in our vicinity, SBDC and SCORE.

Believe me, if your goal is to be a successful entrepreneur this is one episode you do not want to miss.