The University of North Texas System and all of the member institutions are committed to achieving the State's goal of increasing contracting opportunities for Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB).

The purpose of this program is to promote full and equal business opportunities for all businesses in state contracting in accordance with the goals specified in the State of Texas Disparity Study. 34 Texas Administrative Code Part 1, Chapter 20, Subchapter B, Sections 20.11-20.28

Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility requirements to become certified as a HUB vendor are clear:

• A business must be at least 51% owned by Asian Pacific American, Hispanic American, Native American, African American and/or American Woman.
• U.S. Citizen
• Texas Resident
• Principal place of business must be located in the State of Texas.
• The eligible owner must have proportionate interest and demonstrate active participation in the control, operations and management of the entity's affairs.

Memorandums Of Agreement

In order to maximize the number of certified HUBs, TPASS actively pursues Memorandums of Agreement (MOAs) with local governments and non-profit organizations in Texas who certify businesses into their program that meet HUB certification standards. These MOAs greatly reduce the paperwork and administration burden for eligible businesses and maximize procurement opportunities. TPASS has established agreements with the following entities:

• City of Austin
• City of Houston
• Dallas/Fort Worth Minority Business Development Council
• El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
• Houston Minority Business Council
• South Central Texas Regional Certification Agency
• Southwest Minority Supplier Development Council
• Texas Department of Transportation
• Women's Business Council - Southwest
• Women's Business Enterprise Alliance

For more information and updates, visit the HUB Certification Agreement section of the TPASS site.

Suggesting someone for HUB Certification

If you've been doing business with a woman/minority owned vendor who is not HUB certified, submit their information to the HUB team using our Suggest for HUB Certification Form.

Mentor-Protégé Program

The Mentor-Protégé Program is designed 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-Protégé Program provides professional guidance and support to HUBs and facilitates their development and growth. For more detailed information, review the Mentor-Protégé program information on the state website.