Welcome to our Small Business Certification Programs page, designed to guide contractors and vendors through various certification opportunities. Explore federal, state, and local certifications that can enhance your business prospects, opening doors to government contracts and fostering growth.
Federal Small Business Association (SBA) Certifications
8(a)
Small businesses owned and operated by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals who meet specific criteria are eligible to apply for the SBA 8(a) Certification.
Historically Underutilized Business Zone
HUBZone certification is available to businesses that are located in Historically Underutilized Business Zones and meet the necessary criteria, including ownership, control, and employment of local residents, to support economic development in underserved communities.
Women-Owned Small Business & Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned SB
Businesses at least 51% owned and controlled by women entrepreneurs are eligible for Women-Owned Small Business certification, while those meeting specific economic disadvantage criteria can qualify for Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business certification, both providing enhanced access to federal contracting opportunities.
Veteran-Owned Small Business & Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned SB
Businesses that are at least 51% owned and controlled by veterans or service-disabled veterans can qualify for Veteran-Owned Small Business and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business certifications, providing access to government contracts reserved for these honored groups.
Texas Certifications
Historically Underutilized Business
Texas Historically Underutilized Business certification is open to businesses that are at least 51% owned and controlled by minorities, women, or service-disabled veterans, with the principal place of business as the location where the qualifying owner directs, controls, and coordinates the business’s daily operations and activities.
TX DOT (SBE)
Small businesses that meet specific size, ownership, and operation criteria as defined by Texas Department of Transportation are eligible for Small Business Enterprise certification, which unlocks opportunities for government contracts and growth.
Houston/ Fort Bend Certifications
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE / AC)
Houston's Disadvantaged Business Enterprise certification is available to businesses that are at least 51% owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals
Minority, Women, Persons w/ Disabilities, Small Business Enterprise - M/W/PD/S/BE
Houston's Minority, Women, Persons with Disabilities, Small Business Enterprise certification is open to businesses owned and operated by individuals belonging to these specified groups, fostering diversity and inclusion in city contracting opportunities.
Houston Minority Supplier Development Council
Houston Minority Supplier Development Council certification is available to businesses that are at least 51% owned and operated by ethnic minorities, promoting diversity and growth in supplier relationships.
Women’s Business Enterprise National Council / Women Business Enterprise Alliance
Certification by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council / Women Business Enterprise Alliance is open to businesses that are at least 51% owned, controlled, and operated by women, fostering opportunities and recognition for women-owned businesses in the marketplace.
Resources
Apex Accelerator
1455 West Loop South, Suite 890
Houston, TX 77027-9530
Apex provides free one-on-one consulting to educate and guide you in selling your goods and services to government and offer in-person and virtual training opportunities. This includes completing registrations and certifications, market research, and solicitation assistance. Please note they do have a minimum eligibility requirement, however their live and on-demand training open to all.
Phone: 713-752-8477
Email: [email protected]
Request for counseling and eligibility requirements:
Register (uhbauer.org)
Live and On-demand training events:
UH PTAC - Training
U.S. Small Business Administration
8701 S Gessner Rd #1200
Houston, TX 77074
SBA offices provides help with SBA services including funding programs, counseling, federal contracting certifications, and disaster recovery. We can also connect you to our partner organizations, lenders, and other community groups that help small businesses succeed.
Phone: 713-773-6500
Email: [email protected]
Schedule in-person appointment:
Houston District Office