Section 3

Empowers metro area low income and public housing residents to connect to job, training, and business opportunities.

Construction projects and activities funded through the U.S. federal government often generate new employment, training, and business contracting opportunities. A rule called Section 3 requires these opportunities be directed to local low income residents and the businesses they own.

Funding Subject to Section 3 Requirements

Applies to all projects receiving federal funds (CDBG or HOME):

• Construction, reconstruction, conversion, or rehabilitation of housing (including reduction and abatement of lead-based paint hazards)
• Other public construction which includes buildings or improvements (regardless of ownership)

If awarded a contract with Section 3 requirements, we work closely with contractors to ensure the Section 3 goals and requirements will be met to the greatest extent feasible. Learn more about HUD's Section 3 policies and requirements.

Section 3 Business

A Section 3 Business is one where Section 3 Resident(s) own 51% or more of it, or employ Section 3 Residents as 30% or more of its workforce, or commits to subcontracting with other Section 3 Businesses for 25% or more of its total subcontracts on a project. Being certified as a Section 3 business with Anoka County allows those businesses to take advantage of the business opportunities that are generated by certain types of HUD funding.

Section 3 Resident

A Section 3 Resident lives in the Twin Cities metro area and meets one of the following criteria: 1) has a household income below HUD low income limits 2) is a tenant in public housing or 3) a Youth Build participant.

Learn more about Section 3 or to register for Section 3 opportunities, visit Twin Cities Section 3 Collaborative. Note: Section 3 Collaborative information is hosted on the city of St. Paul website.