Section 3

The City of Houston Housing and Community Development Department (HCD) helps ensure applicable HUD-funded projects create meaningful economic opportunities for eligible workers, job seekers, and qualified businesses.

Questions?

For questions about Section 3, eligibility, compliance, or upcoming opportunities, please contact our HCD Section 3 Team.

or call our hotline
832-394-6257

What is Section 3

Section 3 is a federal requirement from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development that connects certain federally funded housing and community development projects to local employment, training, and contracting opportunities for low- and very low-income individuals and businesses that support them.

Information for Workers

While Section 3 does not guarantee employment, training placement, or a specific job opportunity, HCD serves as a connector, helping eligible workers stay informed about possible employment, training, and resource opportunities tied to certain HUD-funded projects.

Information for Businesses

While Section 3 does not guarantee a contract, subcontract, or business opportunity, HCD helps eligible businesses learn about and connect to possible contracting, procurement, and partnership opportunities tied to certain HUD-funded projects.

HCD serves as a connector, helping businesses understand Section 3 requirements, stay informed about upcoming opportunities, and access resources that may support participation in covered projects.

Businesses interested in Section 3 opportunities may be eligible if they meet certain ownership or workforce criteria.

Generally, a business may qualify if it:

  • Is majority-owned and controlled by low- or very low-income individuals;
  • Employs a significant number of low- or very low-income workers; or
  • Is majority-owned and controlled by current public housing residents or residents who currently live in Section 8-assisted housing.

Key Links & Documents

Document Name View
Federal Regulations Compliance Packet View
Compliance Forms: Contract Compliance View
Frequently Asked Questions for Section 3 View
HUD Section 3 Website View
Youthbuild View
24 CFR 75 Economic Opportunities for Low- and Very Low-Income Person View
Section 3 Pathways Flyer View
Section 3 Compliance Forms Packet View
Section 3 Technical Assistance Training Presentation View
Champion Scorecard
Business Concerns Application Checklist