8(a) Applications Moving Faster With New System SBA says it has cut in half the processing time for 8(a) applications since deployment of its Business Development Management Information System nearly a year ago. The average processing time has been cut from 144 days to 72, according to a statement from the agency. SBA is required by law to process completed applications within 90 days. The new system frames the application in a question-and-answer format. The answers are automatically entered on the correct form. “It is impossible to have an incomplete application since the BDMIS will inform the applicant of any missing information,” SBA said. In the past SBA has said applicants often submitted incomplete information, slowing the process. The same data is filed for use in annual reviews of 8(a) companies. SBA says the annual reviews are moving from a paper-based system to an electronic update that speeds the review process. SBA reports the number of applications for 8(a) certification has grown significantly to about 400 per month, reflecting increased interest in federal programs because of the recession.