HUBZone Federal Contracts
The HUBZone program stimulates economic development in historically underutilized business zones by giving contracting preferences to small businesses operating in these areas. HUBZone-certified firms gain access to sole-source contracts, competitive set-asides, and a 10% price evaluation preference in full and open competitions. The program benefits both the businesses and the communities where they operate.
What Makes HUBZone Unique
The HUBZone program is unique because it's tied to geography rather than the owner's personal demographics. Any small business can qualify if its principal office is in a HUBZone and at least 35% of its employees reside in HUBZone areas. This makes the program accessible to a wide range of businesses.
Beyond set-aside and sole-source opportunities, HUBZone firms receive a 10% price evaluation preference in full and open competitions. This means if a HUBZone firm's bid is within 10% of the lowest non-HUBZone offer, the HUBZone firm is treated as the low bidder. This preference can be the deciding factor in competitive procurements.
Eligibility and Compliance
Maintaining HUBZone certification requires ongoing compliance. The 35% employee residency requirement must be met continuously, not just at the time of application. If your workforce changes and you drop below 35%, you risk losing certification.
The SBA conducts regular program examinations to verify compliance. Keep records of employee addresses and be prepared to demonstrate that your principal office is genuinely located in a HUBZone — not just a mailing address or virtual office.
Recent HUBZone Opportunities
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AGRICULTURE, DEPARTMENT OF
59 — SWITCH,THERMOSTATIC
DEPT OF DEFENSE
Privatization Management Programs (PMP) for the Air Force Housing, Enhanced Use Lease, Lodging, and ...
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6515 — Surgical Instruments
VETERANS AFFAIRS, DEPARTMENT OF
North Calais IA - LPOE Roof Replacement
GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
Sample Tasking and Tracking System (STATS)
DEPT OF DEFENSE
Shoreland/Travax-Travel health information subscription-Notice of Intent to Sole Source
HOMELAND SECURITY, DEPARTMENT OF
Waterborne Security Barrier 2.0
DEPT OF DEFENSE
WY SE TRASH REMOVAL
INTERIOR, DEPARTMENT OF THE
EBSCO MLA International Bibliography Database
DEPT OF DEFENSE
146 CES Assess and Repair Basewide Electrical System
DEPT OF DEFENSE
Portable Latrine Services - Devens RFTA, MA
DEPT OF DEFENSE
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check if my office is in a HUBZone?
The SBA provides an interactive HUBZone map at maps.certify.sba.gov where you can enter any address and verify whether it falls within a designated HUBZone area. HUBZone designations can change, so check periodically.
What does the 35% employee residency requirement mean?
At least 35% of your employees must live in a HUBZone area (not necessarily the same one as your office). This is based on the employees' primary residences. You need to maintain documentation proving residency compliance.
Can I get HUBZone certified if I work remotely?
Your principal office must be a physical location in a HUBZone where employees report to work or from which the business is managed. A home office can qualify if it meets SBA's criteria for a principal office. Virtual offices or mailbox addresses do not qualify.
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