There are countless different certifications out there that could potentially help your business. Last week, we talked about the V3 program, a certification that we are very proud to have here at Aspis. This week we are looking at a different certification that can help skyrocketed small businesses that work in the government realm. The HUBZone program is a huge opportunity for small businesses across the country. In this article I’m going to tell you exactly how it can help your business, why you should get it, and a step by step on how you can get it. If you are or ever have wanted to work with the federal government, the HUBZone certification is for you.
What is the HUBZone Certification program?
The HUBZone program was created by the US Small Business Administration. The Historically Underutilized Business Zones also know as HUBZone program helps small businesses in urban and rural communities gain preferential access to federal procurement opportunities. The goal of the HUBZone program is to help Small to Mid sized Businesses’s in underutilized locations. This program can massively benefit small businesses that are in areas that could otherwise struggle. Want to see if you’re business qualifies? Check out this helpful map of all HUBZone locations in the US. This map gets updated every few years, but has been frozen until 2023 allowing time for many businesses to get started.
How does the HUBZone Certification help businesses?
To put things simply, the US government sets aside 3% of federal contract dollars for HUBZone certified businesses. 3% may not sound like a lot, but on the federal level, it ends up being in the millions! This is essentially contract money that is up for grabs once you are HUBZone certified that you don’t have to bid on. Not only does this benefit your business monetarily, but it can bring other benefits. You are much more appealing to many larger businesses that might want to work with you because you have access to contacts that they do not.
How do I get certified?
I’m sure this is the next question that popped into your head. Let’s go through it – there are a few qualifications first.
- Be a small business according to Small Business Administration standards
- Be at least 51% owned by a US citizen
- Have its primary office within a HUBZone
- Have at least 35% of its employees living in a HUBZone
If you fit all of these parameters then you can apply. You just hop on their website and go through the application process.
What you should have before applying for the HUBZone Certification.
The HUBZone application process is quite rigorous and will take quite some time to complete so make sure to plan ahead before getting started. Our team recommends working in this order
- Compile a list of all employees with images of the HUBZone map (located above) and a form of identification stating if they are in a HUBZone.
- Create a list of locations and what employees reside in each location
- Have a lease/rental agreement/deed, utility bill, and payroll statement ready
- Have proof of citizenship of founder
- Compile all corporate documents
- Make sure you have a SAM.gov account
- Have a General Login System account
It can be hard to be a small business, especially when you’re just starting out. HUBZone certification was a big priority for us at ASPIS and we wanted to share it with you. Small businesses need to help other small businesses. Another important thing for any small business to consider is investing in quality cybersecurity. Aspis consulting is a cybersecurity firm that can help you get started in the right direction. Our primary office is in Kansas City, but we also have team members in Duluth, MN, and Washington D.C. No matter where you’re located, Aspis can be of service.
If you want some more awesome cyber tips and tricks, check out our weekly blogs. Also don’t forget to follow us on social media! follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. If you haven’t make sure to check out our other cybersecurity consulting blogs by visiting our website. Remember, cyber threats can be even scarier than Halloween, but Aspis is here to help wherever you need us!
