What is the HUBZone Program & How Do I Register My Business?
The Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) program is a federal program which helps small businesses in urban and rural communities compete in the marketplace by receiving priority access to federal procurement contracts.
In addition, a HUBzone certification allows small businesses located in many rural or urban areas to qualify for sole-source and other types of federal contracting benefits. The primary purpose of the program is to encourage economic development and increase employment opportunities in distressed neighborhoods.
The federal government has a goal of 3% of all prime contract dollars earmarked for HUBZone small business. The dollars can be in the form of set-aside contracts which only HUBZone businesses can bid on, or sole-source contracts in order to meet these goals. HUBZone businesses may also be eligible for a 10% price evaluation preference for some full and open contracts and subcontracting opportunities.
Where are the HUBZones?
HUBZones are located across the country in almost every state. They are rural areas that struggle to find enough business volume and urban areas that are historically left out of the prosperity around them. The easiest way to find out if you located in a HUBZone is to check the official HUBZone map.
Do I qualify for HUBZone certification?
Your business must meet the following requirements to qualify as a HUBZone business:
- Meet small business SBA standards.
- Owned and controlled at least 51% by U.S. citizens, or a Community Development Corporation, an agricultural cooperative, or an Indian tribe.
- Locate your principal office within a “Historically Underutilized Business Zone,”
- Ensure at least 35% of your employees reside in the HUBZone.
Once you determine your business qualifies as a HUBZone, you can start the certification process. A business must first be registered in SAM and have a DUNs number in place. A business owner can apply for certification on their own through the General Login System. The application process can take several months to complete. If you want assistance with this process, a third party contract consultant can help with your application. They can also tell you if you qualify for other small business certification like (WOSB) women-owned small business, (8a) economically challenges business or (VOSB) veteran-owned small business.
Select GCR is a consulting firm committed to helping small and medium-sized businesses achieve growth through government contracting. We identify the best path to success for each individual business and assist in the completion of all necessary registrations and certifications. Our strategic involvement simplifies the overall process and allows business owners to focus efforts on their principal business activities.
We proudly maintain a first time 97% approval rate with applications and registrations submitted on behalf of our clients. For more information or assistance, please contact us here.
