National Small Business Week

It's National Small Business Week so it's time to celebrate the entrepreneurs and innovators that make your community great!

The SBA

The Small Business Administration was founded in 1953 as an independent agency of the federal government, to “aid, counsel, assist and protect, insofar as is possible, the interests of small business concerns”. By 1954 the SBA had begun making business loans and guaranteeing bank loans to small businesses. In it's mission statement it states “The SBA helps Americans start, build and grow businesses. Through an extensive network field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations, the SBA delivers its services to people throughout the United States., Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam.”

A Little History

In 1963 Lyndon B Johnson issued a proclamation that announced National Small Business Week, “which recognized the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners” – Stephen Morris, Online Media Coordinator for the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Fun Facts About Small Businesses

1. The SBA defines a small business as an enterprise having fewer than 500 employees
 
2. There are almost 28 million small businesses in the US and over 22 million are self employed with no additional payroll or employees
 
3. Over 50% of the working population works in a small business
 
4. Small businesses are responsible for generating over 65% of the net new jobs since 1995
 

During National Small Business Week, the SBA highlights the impact of outstanding entrepreneurs, small business owners, and others from all 50 states and U.S. territories. “Every day, they’re working to grow small businesses, create 21st century jobs, drive innovation, and increase America’s global competitiveness.”

Interested in starting your own small business?

Click here to see the 2017 state winners and for tips on getting your dream started started!

LEARN MORE TODAY!