How to register
- Get your federal EIN if needed
- Create eSystems account at comptroller.texas.gov
- Complete CMBL registration
- Select NAICS codes and categories
- Submit and begin receiving bid notifications
Certifications
Historically Underutilized Business (HUB)
Residency requiredState-level small/minority business certification. Requires Texas principal place of business.
Veteran HUB (VetHUB)
Residency requiredFor veterans with 20%+ service-connected disability. Active as of Dec 2025.
Minority Business Enterprise (MBE)
No residency required51% owned by socially/economically disadvantaged U.S. citizens.
Women Business Enterprise (WBE)
No residency required51% owned by women U.S. citizens.
Free tool
Set-aside eligibility checkFor federal bids: see which SBA set-aside programs you meet the tests for.
To sell to Texas government, companies must register on the Centralized Master Bidders List (CMBL) via Texas SmartBuy. Out-of-state vendors welcome; Texas applies reciprocal preference. State spends approximately $248 billion annually with significant tech buying through TxDOT, HHSC, and DIR.
Who Can Sell to Texas?
Any business can bid on Texas state contracts. Out-of-state vendors are permitted. Texas applies reciprocal preferences: if your state favors its vendors, Texas applies equivalent preferences to Texas bidders. Your business must have a federal EIN and valid business structure.
Top Agencies Buying Technology
TxDOT (Texas Department of Transportation) manages highways and transit, procuring fleet management systems, traffic management technology, and infrastructure monitoring. HHSC (Health & Human Services Commission) procures health information systems and benefits administration software. DIR (Department of Information Resources) procures enterprise software, cybersecurity solutions, and IT infrastructure for all state agencies.
How State Contracting Differs from Federal
Texas state contracts follow state procurement law, not FAR. Payment is typically Net 30 (faster than federal). Compliance requirements are simpler. However, some contracts require prevailing wage. The reciprocal preference system means out-of-state vendors face potential disadvantages depending on their home state.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be Texas-based to bid?
No. Out-of-state companies can bid. Texas applies reciprocal preference matching your state's preferences against Texas bidders.
Is Texas contracting only for small businesses?
No. Both large and small businesses can compete. HUB program provides preferences for certified small/minority businesses.
How long to register?
1-2 weeks. Registration is free via eSystems account and CMBL.
Minimum contract size?
Purchases over $25K on ESBD. Over $100K requires formal IFB.
Active certifications?
HUB and VetHUB are active. Race/gender-based HUB revoked Dec 2025; only VetHUB remains.