Back to Basics: HUBZone Eligibility

When exploring the world of SBA socioeconomic programs, the Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) Program isn’t always the first program on a business’ radar.  One reason for this could be the distinct eligibility requirements an applicant must meet to qualify for HUBZone certification.

This is the only socioeconomic program where SBA requires a company’s principal office and employees to reside in a designated area, i.e., a HUBZone. SBA provides a HUBZone map showing the areas designated as a HUBZone. Keep in mind that this map is reevaluated every five years, so it’s important to stay up-to-date on any updates made to the map.

We have previously covered the basics and overall benefits of the HUBZone Program. Here, we’ll go through the eligibility requirements more in-depth.  

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The Thaw: Dealing with the End of the HUBZone Map Freeze

Well, summer is certainly here. You only need to step outside to be able to tell. And with the arrival of summer, the long-awaited end to the HUBZone map freeze just occurred on June 30, 2023. The new map took effect the following day, July 1, 2023. If you’re in the HUBZone program, or are considering certification in the HUBZone program, you might have some questions as to what this means for you. In this post, we’ll explore what the changes will bring.

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New HUBZone Program Guidance Sheds Light on Principal Office Long-Term Investment Rules

The HUBZone Program has released updated FAQs that provide guidance on important HUBZone rules and how SBA will be interpreting them. While these don’t have the authority of a regulation, the new guidance shows how SBA will come down on certain HUBZone questions that aren’t answered in the regulations. These include the details on long-term investment in a principal office as well as a few other rules. Read on for how SBA will interpret these rules.

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