What is the HUBZone 35% rule?

At least 35% of a HUBZone firm's employees must live in a HUBZone, in addition to the firm's principal office being located in one.

What is the HUBZone price evaluation preference?

In full and open competitions, certified HUBZone firms get a 10% price evaluation preference.

How often do HUBZone firms recertify?

Every three years, with no limit on total participation while the firm continues to qualify.

HUBZone program basics

The HUBZone program helps small businesses in historically underutilized business zones win federal contracts through set-asides and a price preference.

Who qualifies

Small under SBA size standards
At least 51% owned and controlled by U.S. citizens, a Community Development Corporation, an agricultural cooperative, an Alaska Native corporation, a Native Hawaiian organization or an Indian tribe
Principal office located in a HUBZone
At least 35% of employees living in a HUBZone

Check addresses with the SBA HUBZone map. Full rules are in 13 CFR Part 126.

Benefits

Access to HUBZone set-aside and sole-source contracts
A 10% price evaluation preference in full and open competitions
The government's goal is to award at least 3% of federal contracting dollars to HUBZone businesses

Keeping certification

HUBZone firms recertify every three years and there's no time limit on participation as long as you still qualify. SBA can do unannounced site visits. The map changes over time; SBA notes updates due in 2026 for expiring redesignated areas and in July 2028 for census-based areas, so recheck your locations.

Apply

Apply free through the SBA Certifications portal. Details: SBA HUBZone program.

See current HUBZone set-aside opportunities.

Frequently asked questions

What is the HUBZone 35% rule?: At least 35% of a HUBZone firm's employees must live in a HUBZone, in addition to the firm's principal office being located in one.
What is the HUBZone price evaluation preference?: In full and open competitions, certified HUBZone firms get a 10% price evaluation preference.
How often do HUBZone firms recertify?: Every three years, with no limit on total participation while the firm continues to qualify.

SetAside Signal is an independent publication, not a government agency, and this isn't legal advice. Rules change, so confirm details at sba.gov, sam.gov and acquisition.gov. Reviewed Oct 15, 2026.