If you run a one-employee business in Texas, where you are the sole owner and worker, you may wonder whether any government programs are available to you. Many programs are designed for businesses creating jobs, which can seem like a barrier when you operate solo. However, a meaningful number of federal, state, and local programs are accessible to single-operator businesses, and others become available when you are ready to make your first hire.
Programs Available to Solo Operators
SBA Microloans
SBA Microloans up to $50,000 through CDFIs like LiftFund and PeopleFund do not require you to have employees. These loans can fund equipment purchases, inventory, working capital, and business improvements. SBA Microloan vs. 7(a).
Texas HUB Certification
Solo businesses owned by women, minorities, or service-disabled veterans may qualify for HUB certification, providing access to state procurement preferences. Many state contracts are specifically set aside for HUB-certified businesses, and there is no employee count requirement. Learn about HUB certification.
Government Contracting
Federal contracting certifications including 8(a), WOSB, and HUBZone do not require minimum employee counts. Many federal contracts are sized for small and solo businesses. Guide to government contracting.
SBIR/STTR Grants
If your solo business conducts qualifying R&D, you may apply for SBIR grants. Phase I awards do not require employees beyond the principal investigator. SBIR grants in Texas.
Tax Benefits for Solo Businesses
Self-Employment Tax Deductions
Solo business owners can deduct the employer-equivalent portion of self-employment tax, health insurance premiums, home office expenses, and qualified business equipment through Section 179 expensing.
Qualified Business Income Deduction
The Section 199A deduction may allow you to deduct up to 20% of qualified business income, subject to income limits and business type restrictions.
Programs That Require Employees
Be aware that some valuable programs require you to have or create W-2 employees to qualify. These include the Skills Development Fund, WOTC tax credits, on-the-job training reimbursements, and most Chapter 380 agreements. When you are ready to make your first hire, these programs become available and can significantly reduce hiring costs.
SBDC and SCORE Resources
Free consulting from SBDCs and SCORE mentoring is available regardless of business size. These resources can help you identify matching programs, plan for growth, and prepare applications. How to use SBDC services.
Find Programs That May Fit Your Business
Our free screening report identifies programs available to your one-employee business right now and flags programs you will qualify for as you grow. Start your free screening →