Helpful Links & FAQs

How do I get on the CMBL?

You can register as a Texas vendor on the CMBL on the Texas Comptroller’s website.

Why is using the CMBL so important?

Being on it sends you notifications when bids are requested, and it’s a great tool for buyers to use to find and choose your business.

If you’re a certified HUB, are you automatically added to the HUB Directory on the CMBL website? Or do you have to pay the $70 to be visible?

You are as long as you’re Active. Active status will appear as HUB Status code “A”. The CMBL Registration System will allow access to the HUB Directory profile.

What’s the difference between the HUB Directory and the CMBL?

• The HUB Directory is a list of all active HUBs certified through the Statewide HUB Program or any of its MOAs.

• The Centralized Master Bidders List (CMBL) is a list of any business interested in doing business with the state of Texas and does not have to be based in Texas. CMBL registration requires a $70 annual fee.

• Both lists can be found in the CMBL system.

How do I become a certified HUB?

We made a whole page dedicated to HUB Certification to help you out. Take a look!

How long does it take to get HUB certified after you submit a completed application?

It can take up to 90 days from receipt of completed application to get approved or denied. Applications are processed on a first come first serve basis.

Is there a fee to be HUB Certified?

• The State of Texas HUB Certification is free.
• The statewide HUB program has 12 Memorandums of Agreements (MOAs) with other certification organizations who may charge a fee for their certification (MBE, SBE, DBE, or WBE). Upon your request, they may review your qualifications, verify you qualify for HUB, and issue you a HUB Certificate at no additional cost.

If I’m a certified HUB, do I need to complete the HSP?

Yes. Once a state agency/university has determined the probability of subcontracting opportunities in a solicitation, all bidders must submit an HSP.

As a certified HUB who is a prime, what is the percentage of work I must perform in order for the agency to receive 100% HUB credit? 

In accordance with TX Admin. Code §20.285, when a prime contractor is a HUB, it must perform at least 25% of the total value of the contract with its own or leased employees in order for the agency to receive 100% HUB credit for the entire contract. 

If I’m a HUB prime, do I have to choose HUB subcontractors?

Yes. You have to make a good faith effort. Required by law. 

How do I complete my HSP?

We made a whole page dedicated to HSPs to help you out. Take a look!

Where do I find the HSP?

You can find HUB Subcontracting Plan Forms on the Comptroller’s website.

Do I need to fill out an HSP if I’m Self-Performing?

Yes. You would need to fill out the Self-Performing version of the HSP, or sections 1, 2, 3, and 4.

What is Good Faith Effort?

Good faith effort requirements include: 

• • dividing the contract work into reasonable lots or portions, 

  • seeking a minimum of 3 HUBs for EACH subcontracting opportunity, 

  • providing written justification of the selection process if the selected subcontractor is not a HUB, and 

  • providing a notification to trade organizations and minority organizations that disseminate subcontracting opportunities to their membership or participants.

Is a consultant on the project considered a subcontractor?

Yes. “Subcontractor” means a person who contracts with a prime contractor to work, to supply commodities, or to contribute toward completing work for a governmental entity. 

Is it okay if a HUB subcontractor came to me instead of the other way around?

Yes! This is great, but don’t rely on that to happen all the time. Network and get to know HUBs, so you have a database at the ready when you’re in need. 

How do I report after award?

Prime contractor payment requests shall include a Prime Contractor Progress Assessment Report (PAR) that identifies all HUB and non-HUB subcontractor payments. This report is required monthly for monthly payment, and you can find a link to the form above, under the "HSPs and PARs" tab.