SECTION 20.297. HUB Forum Programs for State Agencies

(a) In accordance with Government Code, §2161.066, the comptroller shall design a program of forums in which HUBs are invited by state agencies to deliver technical and business presentations that demonstrate their capability to do business with the state agency:

(1) to senior managers and procurement personnel at state agencies that acquire goods and services of a type supplied by the HUBs; and

(2) to prime contractors or vendors with the state who may be subcontracting for goods and services of a type supplied by the HUBs.

(b) Each state agency with a biennial appropriation exceeding $10 million shall participate in the forums by sending senior managers and procurement personnel to attend relevant presentations. The state agency will inform their prime contractors or vendors about presentations relevant to subcontracting opportunities for HUBs and small businesses. The comptroller and each agency that has a HUB coordinator shall:

(1) design its own forum program and model the program, to the extent appropriate, following the format established by the comptroller;

(2) sponsor presentations by HUBs at the state agency offices unless state agency facilities will not accommodate forum participants as determined and documented by the HUB Coordinator; and

(3) identify and invite HUBs to make marketing presentations on the types of goods and services they provide.

(c) Agencies may elect to implement forums individually or cooperatively with other agencies. The state agency's forum programs may include, but are not limited to, the following initiatives:

(1) providing marketing information that will direct HUBs to key staff within the agency;

(2) requesting other state agencies to assist in the preparation and planning of the forum when necessary;

(3) informing HUBs about potential contract opportunities and future awards; and

(4) preparing an annual report of each sponsored and cosponsored forum.

Source Note: The provisions of this §20.297 adopted to be effective January 24, 2017, 42 TexReg 235; amended to be effective August 9, 2023, 48 TexReg 4268