"Since approximately 1967, the Small Business Administration has been using authority in section 8(a) of the Small Business Act to act as a prime contractor with other Federal agencies in obtaining procurement assistance for disadvantaged businesses. In 1978, through enactment of Public Law 95-507, Congress legislatively shifted the purpose and structure of the 8(a) program. Prior to 1978, the program was essentially for locating contracts. Since 1978, the primary emphasis has been a business development program, with the contractual benefits of the program being combined with management, technical or financial aid as may be required to insure successful business growth"--Page 1.