In the last year, businesses with HUBZone certifications saw an increase in the award allocation from 3-5% from the Small Business Administration (SBA). While these increases indicate a rise in both awareness and participation, it is through the unwavering support and advocacy of organizations like the HUBZone Contractors National Council that we are getting closer to closing the gap on access to opportunities for businesses in historically underserved communities nationwide.
HUBZone Program History
The HUBZone program was formed in connection with the Small Business Reauthorization Act of 1997 to assist with access to federal contracting opportunities for small businesses established within high poverty, high unemployment, low-income and historically underserved communities. Headed by the SBA, the qualifications for this program include that principal offices are located within a designated HUBZone and 35% of the employees reside within the HUBZone area.
The work to support HUBZone initiatives is seen in the Council’s three-fold approach of: legislative reform, economic and community development and an increase in HUBZone spending. All three initiatives drive the success of the annual National HUBZone Conference that took place in July this year in Chantilly, Virginia.
Our Involvement with HUBZone
As a supporter of the HUBZone Contractors National Council, and Board of Directors-level participant, Parabilis proudly serves to assist the advocacy goals of this fantastic organization. The result of its growing national conference is an intersection of opportunities, education and partnership on many levels. The 4-day forum builds necessary camaraderie, excitement and cooperation, while industry and government can unite to better answer the challenges our country faces with the solutions this network can provide to meet the mission.
What we learned and continue to see this year is that although the award opportunities are on the rise, there is still work to be done to ensure HUBZone businesses gain access to better acquisition practices that enable more effective results supporting the underserved areas of our country. And you don’t have to be a certified HUBZone business to find opportunities at this event. Many other socio-economic certification holders find benefit in partnering with HUBZone companies to succeed in the federal marketplace as well. You are also welcome to participate in a matchmaking event to connect government to industry playmakers.
Kudos to Executive Director, Michelle Burnett, and her team for your tireless efforts for this community. Day in and day out, your work is making a huge difference, and we are proud to link arms with this organization. If you would like to learn more about how you can get involved throughout the year, and join us next year, we encourage you to check out the website and also follow the council on LinkedIn.