(NMC) — More small business owners in the CNMI are now knowledgeable about securing federal contracts thanks to a HUBZone certification training course conducted by the CNMI Small Business Development Center at Northern Marianas College.
HUBZone is a program administered by the U.S. Small Business Association that helps small businesses in historically underutilized business zones secure federal contracts. HUBZone certified businesses also get a 10 percent price evaluation preference in full and open contract competitions.
HUBZones are located all over the United States and its territories such as the CNMI, Guam, American Samoa, and Puerto Rico. Currently, there are 14 HUBZone certified businesses in the CNMI.
The training, which was conducted by Guam Small Business Administration Branch Manager Kenneth Lujan, focused on the application process and the eligibility requirements for the program.
Participant Vincent Aldan of Marianas Building Inspection and Consulting Services said the training was very informative.
“It helped me in understanding the process in being able to provide services to the federal and local governments,” Aldan said. “I hope to become HUBZone certified as it will give my business the competitive edge when it comes to federal contracts for projects that fall within my industry.”
To register for free one-on-one counseling by the CNMI SBDC, go to marianas.ecenterdirect.com, email mercilynn.palec@marianas.edu or call (670) 237-6888.
The CNMI Small Business Development Center Network is hosted by Northern Marianas College.
CNMI SBDCN is partially funded by a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Participants listen during the HUBZone certification course hosted by the CNMI Small Business Development Center at Northern Marianas College. The course was taught by Guam Small Business Administration Branch Manager Kenneth Lujan.
