Asian-owned businesses represent one of the fastest-growing segments of small business ownership in Texas. Entrepreneurs of Asian descent may be eligible for a range of federal, state, and local programs that provide grants, loan assistance, procurement preferences, and technical support. Many of these programs fall under the broader category of minority business development, while others target specific communities or industries where Asian-owned businesses are concentrated.
This guide covers the most relevant programs, certifications, and resources for Asian-owned businesses operating in Texas.
Federal Programs and Certifications
SBA 8(a) Business Development Program
The SBA's 8(a) Business Development program provides access to federal contracting set-asides, mentorship, and business development training for socially and economically disadvantaged business owners. Asian Americans are presumed to be socially disadvantaged under the program's regulations, which means they may be eligible to apply without the burden of establishing social disadvantage individually. Participants gain access to sole-source and set-aside federal contracts for a nine-year period.
Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA)
The U.S. Department of Commerce's Minority Business Development Agency operates business centers across the country, including in Texas. MBDA Business Centers provide consulting, contract opportunities, financial assistance referrals, and market development support to minority-owned businesses. Asian-owned businesses are eligible for all MBDA services, and the agency maintains relationships with capital providers that can assist with financing.
SBIR and STTR Programs
Asian-owned businesses engaged in research and development may be eligible for Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants across 11 federal agencies. These competitive grant programs fund technology development from proof of concept through commercialization, with Phase I awards typically ranging from $50,000 to $275,000 and Phase II awards up to $1 million or more.
SBA Community Advantage and Microloan Programs
The SBA's Community Advantage program and Microloan program provide financing through mission-focused lenders that specialize in serving underserved communities. Asian-owned businesses that may face barriers accessing traditional bank financing can work with community-based lenders participating in these programs to obtain loans up to $50,000 (Microloans) or $350,000 (Community Advantage).
Texas State Programs
Texas HUB Certification
The Texas Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) program provides state contracting preferences to businesses owned by members of designated groups, including Asian Pacific Americans. HUB certification is free through the Texas Comptroller's office and opens access to state contract set-asides and subcontracting requirements. The State of Texas has established participation goals ranging from 11.2% to 26% of total contract value across different procurement categories.
Skills Development Fund
The Texas Workforce Commission administers the Skills Development Fund, which provides grants for customized workforce training. Asian-owned businesses of any size can partner with local community colleges to access training funds for their employees. Awards can range from tens of thousands to millions of dollars depending on the scope of the training program.
Texas Small Business Credit Initiative (TSBCI)
The TSBCI program, administered through the Governor's Office, works with participating lenders to provide capital access to Texas small businesses. The program includes a specific emphasis on reaching socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, which may benefit qualifying Asian-owned businesses seeking financing.
City and Local Programs
Houston
Houston has one of the largest Asian-American populations in Texas and the country. The City of Houston's Office of Business Opportunity administers MBE (Minority Business Enterprise) certification and contract compliance programs that provide procurement preferences for minority-owned businesses on city contracts. The Greater Houston area also hosts multiple CDFI lenders that serve Asian-owned businesses.
Dallas-Fort Worth
The City of Dallas operates a Business Inclusion and Development division that provides M/WBE certification for minority-owned businesses. The DFW Metroplex has a significant Asian-American business community, and several regional organizations provide networking, mentorship, and capital access support.
Austin and San Antonio
Both Austin and San Antonio administer local MBE certification programs that provide contracting preferences on city projects. These programs are separate from the state HUB certification and can be stacked with federal and state certifications for broader access to government contracting at multiple levels.
Industry and Community Organizations
Several organizations provide business development support specifically for Asian-owned businesses in Texas:
- Asian Chamber of Texas: Provides networking, advocacy, and business development resources for Asian-owned businesses across the state.
- National Asian/Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce (National ACE): Offers federal procurement assistance and connects Asian-owned businesses with corporate supplier diversity programs.
- SCORE mentors: SCORE chapters across Texas provide free business mentoring, including mentors with experience serving immigrant-owned and minority-owned businesses.
- CDFIs and community lenders: Organizations like LiftFund and PeopleFund serve Asian-owned businesses across Texas with microloans, small business loans, and technical assistance.
Steps to Access These Programs
- Apply for Texas HUB certification: This free certification opens access to state contracting preferences and is one of the simplest first steps.
- Evaluate 8(a) eligibility: If your business meets the SBA's size standards and you meet the personal net worth requirements, 8(a) certification can unlock significant federal contracting opportunities.
- Contact your local MBDA Business Center: MBDA centers can help identify capital sources, contract opportunities, and business development resources specific to your industry and location.
- Explore local MBE certification: If your business operates in Houston, Dallas, Austin, or San Antonio, apply for the relevant city-level MBE certification in addition to state HUB.
- Register on SAM.gov: Active registration in the System for Award Management is required for all federal contracting opportunities.
Find Programs That May Fit Your Business
Asian-owned businesses in Texas often have access to overlapping federal, state, and local programs. The key is identifying which certifications and programs match your specific business profile, industry, and location.
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