Texas HUB certification explained (now VetHUB)

Last reviewed Nov 5, 2026 against the official sources listed below.

Texas HUB (Historically Underutilized Business) certification is a free state certification from the Texas Comptroller that helps a business get state agency contracts and subcontracts. Since new rules took effect on May 12, 2026, the program is called VetHUB (Veteran Heroes United in Business) and certifies only businesses that are at least 51 percent owned, managed and operated by Texas-resident service-disabled veterans with a service disability of 20 percent or more. HUB certifications based on race, ethnicity or sex were revoked. Certification is good for up to four years and you apply online through the Comptroller.

What changed in the Texas HUB program?

The Comptroller's office replaced the old HUB categories with VetHUB. Emergency rules took effect on December 2, 2025, and final rules in 34 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 20, Subchapter D, Division 1 took effect on May 12, 2026.

In the Comptroller's words: "The Comptroller's office revoked all businesses previously certified based on race, ethnicity or sex, unless they proved ownership and control by SDVs" (service-disabled veterans). Applications that were already pending are reviewed under the new rules.

Contracts signed before the new rules took effect are not affected. The Comptroller also ended its agreements with outside certifying organizations, so new certifications through those partners are no longer accepted.

Texas Government Code chapter 2161, the HUB statute, still lists the older groups. The narrowing to service-disabled veterans comes from the Comptroller's rules. If the law or rules change again, this page will be updated.

Who qualifies for VetHUB certification?

According to the Comptroller's certification process page and FAQ:

At least 51 percent of the business is owned, managed and operated by one or more Texas-resident service-disabled veterans with a service-related disability of 20 percent or more.
The qualifying owner controls the day-to-day operations and holds a company title that matches that ownership and control.
The business is primarily based in Texas, with its principal place of business in Texas.
The business is for-profit.
The business does not exceed the size standard in 34 TAC 20.294, which follows the SBA size standards in 13 CFR 121.201.

How much does VetHUB certification cost and how long does it last?

Certification is free and is good for up to four years, as long as the business keeps meeting the eligibility rules. The Comptroller asks applicants to allow up to 90 days for review, longer if the application is incomplete.

Being VetHUB certified does not make the Centralized Master Bidders List (CMBL) free. The CMBL is a separate $70 a year registration. If you are certified and pay the CMBL fee in the same period, the system combines both profiles into one listing.

How do I apply?

Gather proof of ownership and control for your business structure, for example a stock or membership issuance and transfer ledger for a corporation or LLC.
Apply online through the Comptroller's VetHUB certification system, linked from the certification process page. Paper, email and in-person submissions are not accepted.
Answer any clarification requests from the certification specialist by email.
Once approved, your profile appears in the online Texas VetHUB Directory, where you can download proof of certification.

If ownership of a certified business changes, you must report it. Certification does not transfer to new owners.

What does VetHUB certification do for my business?

State agencies use the VetHUB Directory together with the CMBL to invite bids. For purchases of $10,000 or less, state agencies can contact a business directly to buy goods and services.

Prime contractors also search the directory. When a state agency expects a contract of $100,000 or more to have subcontracting opportunities, bidders must include a HUB subcontracting plan, and a bid without the required plan is not considered responsive. Under the 2026 rules, a prime contractor's good faith effort means notifying two VetHUBs for each subcontracting opportunity.

Some Texas cities must also contact historically underutilized businesses: for purchases of more than $3,000 but less than $100,000, a city must contact at least two HUBs on a rotating basis, using the Comptroller's list (Local Government Code 252.0215).

Is Texas HUB the same as federal HUBZone?

No. HUBZone is a federal program run by the U.S. Small Business Administration for businesses in economically distressed areas, and it applies to federal contracts. VetHUB is a Texas state certification for state agency purchasing. See our set-asides guide for HUBZone and the other federal programs.

Frequently asked questions

Is Texas HUB certification still available for minority and woman-owned businesses?

No. Under Comptroller rules effective May 12, 2026, the program (now VetHUB) certifies only businesses at least 51 percent owned, managed and operated by Texas-resident service-disabled veterans with a disability rating of 20 percent or more. Certifications based on race, ethnicity or sex were revoked.

How much does Texas VetHUB certification cost?

It is free. Registering on the Centralized Master Bidders List to receive state bid notices is separate and costs $70 a year.

How long does Texas VetHUB certification last?

Up to four years, as long as the business continues to meet the eligibility requirements.

How long does the VetHUB application take?

The Comptroller asks applicants to allow up to 90 days for review. Incomplete applications take longer.

Was my existing HUB contract canceled?

No. The Comptroller says contracts in existence before the new rules took effect are not affected, and agencies are not required to end or change them.

Official sources

Rules and amounts change. Always confirm with the official source and the solicitation itself before you bid. Spotted something out of date? Email support@libertybids.com.