Grants for Minority Founders in Texas (2026)
Texas operates one of the country's most active state-level certification programs for minority-owned businesses — the Texas Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) program, administered through the Texas Comptroller — which unlocks meaningful state contracting set-asides. Beyond HUB, Texas minority founders access federal 8(a) and SDB certifications through SBA, MBDA Business Centers in Dallas and Houston, and corporate supplier diversity programs from Texas HQs including AT&T, Dell, ExxonMobil, and American Airlines. Private programs from Tory Burch Foundation, Hello Alice, and LiftFund (a Texas-headquartered CDFI) route additional non-dilutive capital to Texas minority founders. The Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce (TAMACC) and the Texas Association of Black Chambers of Commerce operate programs and advocacy that connect founders to further resources. Bootstrap Directory aggregates Texas-eligible grants for minority founders across state, federal, private, and corporate sources for efficient prioritization. Texas HUB certification's reciprocity with several other state programs and its recognition by major Texas corporations make it among the most leveraged minority business credentials in the country. Application support is widely available statewide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Texas HUB program?
The Texas Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) program, run by the Texas Comptroller, certifies minority, women, and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses for state contracting set-asides. Certification unlocks access to state procurement opportunities with a legislative target for HUB participation in state spending. Requirements include 51%+ eligible ownership and active management.
How does HUB certification differ from federal minority certifications?
HUB is state-specific — it unlocks Texas state and public agency contracting opportunities. Federal 8(a) and SDB certifications through SBA unlock federal contracting. Many Texas minority founders pursue both because they open different pools of opportunity. Corporate supplier diversity often recognizes NMSDC certification, which is separate from both.
When are Texas minority founder grants open?
HUB certification is ongoing. Federal programs run year-round. Foundation programs (Tory Burch, Hello Alice) have annual windows. Corporate programs vary. LiftFund and CDFI-based programs often have rolling deadlines. Check Bootstrap Directory for current openings.