Set-Aside Eligible

Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone)

The HUBZone program encourages economic development in historically underutilized areas by giving certified HUBZone businesses preferential access to federal contracts. To qualify, the business must be located in a HUBZone, and at least 35% of employees must live in a HUBZone. HUBZone status is certified by SBA and expires annually.

How This Affects Your CAGE Code Record

When you register on SAM.gov and receive a CAGE code, your business type and socioeconomic certifications are recorded in your entity profile. Contracting officers and prime contractors can look up your CAGE code to verify these designations before teaming or awarding a subcontract. Keeping your SAM.gov registration active and your certifications current is essential — an expired registration will hide your set-aside status from any CAGE code lookup.

Registration Process

Apply at certify.sba.gov. SBA maps HUBZone boundaries — check the HUBZone map tool before applying. Annual recertification is required. Active SAM.gov and CAGE code required.

Required Certifications

SBA HUBZone Certification (annual renewal)

Set-Aside Advantages

HUBZone set-asides and sole-source awards
10% price evaluation preference in full-and-open competitions
Access to HUBZone IDIQ vehicles
Priority in agencies with HUBZone goals

Get Your CAGE Code for Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone)

CAGE codes are assigned free during SAM.gov registration. Use certify.sba.gov for SBA program certifications after your SAM registration is active.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my business is in a HUBZone?

Use the SBA HUBZone map at maps.certify.sba.gov to check your address. Boundaries change when new Census data is released.

What if an employee moves out of a HUBZone?

You have 6 months to replace them with a HUBZone resident to maintain the 35% threshold. Notify SBA of any major changes.

Can I lose HUBZone status mid-contract?

Generally, you maintain eligibility through the contract performance period once awarded. However, re-competition requires current certification.

Contract Data