HUB Frequently Asked Questions

The Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Program promotes full and equal business opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses in state procurement.

1. To be eligible, a business must be at least 51% owned by an Asian Pacific American, Black American, Hispanic American, Native American, American woman, or Service-Disabled Veteran. The business must also have a principal place of business in Texas and demonstrate a proven ability to perform in the desired area.
2. Additionally, the applicant/owner
   1. Be a U.S. citizen.
   2. Prove Texas residency for at least one year.
   3. Demonstrate control over daily operations and hold a company title that reflects ownership and control.
   4. Ensure the business is primarily based in Texas, with its principal place of business located in the state.
   5. Be a for-profit entity that has not exceeded the size standards set forth by 34 TAC §20.294

1. HUB Certification is free of charge and good for up to four years, provided that the business continues to meet the eligibility requirements.
2. Increased Visibility: Your business will be listed in the TPASS HUB Directory, utilized by state agencies, and the Centralized Master Bidder's List (CMBL) for bid solicitations.
3. Broader Exposure: Certified HUBs gain greater visibility to the public and organizations with supplier diversity programs, enhancing opportunities with minority- and women-owned business initiatives.

Yes, being a HUB vendor does not preclude or exempt a supplier from meeting the requirements of a HUB Subcontracting Plan.

Yes, if you will not be subcontracting any portion of the bid, you must still complete and submit the HUB Subcontracting Plan.

The Centralized Master Bidders List (CMBL) is utilized by state agencies and institutions of higher education for purchases or other acquisitions including the acquisitions of services, for which competitive bidding is required. UTA the CMBL to develop a mailing list for vendors to receive bids based on the products or services they can provide to the State of Texas. Manufacturers, suppliers, and other vendors wishing to furnish materials, equipment, supplies, and services to the state may apply to be on the CMBL to receive bidding opportunities. Vendors are not required to be on the CMBL to do business with state entities. Vendors may download CMBL applications at comptroller.texas.gov/purchasing/vendor/cmbl or call (512) 463-3459.

There is a $70.00 annual fee for CMBL registration.

A list of Institutional HUB Coordinators can be found here: comptroller.texas.gov/purchasing/vendor/hub/resources.php

In accordance with the Texas Government Code §2161.065, Texas A&M University has designated a Mentor Protege Program to encourage long-term relationships between vendors and Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUBs). The goal of the program is to increase the ability of HUBs to contract with the state and/or receive subcontracts. The Mentor Protege Program provides professional guidance and support to HUBs and facilitates their development and growth.

• 11.2% Heavy Construction
• 21.1% Building Construction
• 32.9% Special Trade Construction
• 23.7% Professional Services
• 26.0% Other Services
• 21.1% Commodities

The State of Texas is divided into 25 highway districts which include designated counties. Vendors can select the highway districts for which they want to provide products and/or services. You can view the Highway District Map on the Comptroller's website.

Typically, the certification process takes 60 to 90 days after submitting a complete application.

Valid for 4 Years: HUB certification remains valid for four years, provided the business continues to meet all eligibility requirements.

The renewal process is simple and must be completed before the certification expiration date. The Statewide HUB Program will notify businesses when it is time to renew.

Visit Certification Process for more information.

Individual or supplier who contracts with a vendor to work or contribute toward completing work for a governmental entity. The term does not include a state agency. A supplier cannot subcontract work to themselves.

• The HSP is a required document that outlines how prime contractors will utilize HUBs as subcontractors for state contracts with expected values of $100,000 or more.
• UTA’s HSP forms and instructions can be found here.

A Good Faith Effort refers to the steps a contractor/vendor must take to ensure fair and equitable opportunities for HUBs to participate in subcontracting work. These efforts include:

1. Dividing the Contract Work: Break down the contract work into reasonable portions or lots, consistent with standard industry practices, to allow for more subcontracting opportunities.
2. Providing Written Notifications to HUBs: Send written notifications to at least 3 HUBs regarding the subcontracting opportunities. The notification must include:
   1. The scope of the work
   2. Information on where to review plans and specifications.
   3. Bonding and insurance requirements (if applicable)
   4. The deadline and method for response
   5. Contact information.
   6. Vendors must allow HUBs at least 7 business days from when they receive the notice to respond. Note: the day the notification is sent does not count toward the 7-day period.
3. Notifying Minority or Women Trade Organizations: Send a written notification to a relevant minority or women’s trade organization or development center about subcontracting opportunities. The notification must include the same information as provided to the HUBs. Vendors must allow at least 7 business days for responses from the date the notification is received.
4. Providing Documentation: Vendors must submit official documentation proving compliance with these requirements. Acceptable documentation includes fax transmittal logs, written correspondence, email records, and any responses received. Failure to provide proof of a Good Faith Effort will result in the disqualification of your bid.

The HSP may be rejected if it does not include evidence of a good-faith effort, lacks required documentation, or fails to meet the state’s outlined expectations for subcontracting opportunities.

Yes, businesses that do not have HUB certification can still participate in state procurement; however, state agencies are encouraged to utilize HUBs

By working as a subcontractor under a prime contractor, your business can gain valuable experience, expand its network, and increase opportunities for future state contract bids.

If your business no longer meets the eligibility criteria, you must notify the Statewide HUB Program immediately. Failure to do so could result in the loss of certification and exclusion from HUB contract opportunities.

• UTA uses the Texas Purchasing Group on the BidNet platform for all formal bid and proposal submissions, including smaller repair and renovation opportunities. Register on Bidnet to receive bid or proposal documents, along with all submittal requirements and instructions here
• UTA also utilizes Texas Electronic State Business Daily (ESBD) to post all proposals regarding major construction and capital projects. Make sure to follow instructions in bid package.
  • Search: Univ of Texas at Arlington OR Agency 714
  • www.txsmartbuy.com/esbd

Here are some key tips to enhance your experience when engaging in business with the state:

1. Register Your Business: Ensure your business is properly registered with the state of Texas. This is crucial for eligibility in bidding on state contracts.
2. Obtain HUB Certification: If applicable, pursue Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) certification to access opportunities specifically designed for minority- and women-owned businesses.
3. Utilize the TPASS HUB Directory: Get listed in the TPASS HUB Directory to increase your visibility to state agencies and organizations seeking HUB suppliers.
4. Stay Informed: Regularly check the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts website for updates on procurement opportunities, policies, and changes in regulations.
5. Network: Attend workshops, webinars, and networking events focused on state procurement to connect with decision-makers and other businesses.
6. Understand the Procurement Process: Familiarize yourself with the state’s procurement processes, including how bids are solicited, evaluated, and awarded.
7. Prepare Competitive Proposals: Ensure your proposals are thorough, addressing all requirements and demonstrating your capability to meet the needs outlined in the solicitation.
8. Ensure your HUB Subcontracting Plan (HSP) is compliant: Non-compliant plans will result in rejection of the proposal
9. Follow Up: After submitting bids or proposals, follow up with the procurement office to express your continued interest and inquire about the status of your submission.
10. Seek Feedback: If you are not awarded a contract, request feedback on your proposal to understand areas for improvement in future submissions.
11. Leverage Resources: Take advantage of available resources, such as training programs, mentorship opportunities, and procurement assistance offered by state agencies and local trade centers and developmental organizations .