While media attention is often focused on large businesses, it is the small business owner who remains the backbone of our nation’s economic vitality. Their contributions to the stability of our business climate must never be forgotten or ignored. Unfortunately, in volatile economic times like those we are facing today, small businesses can face significant obstacles.

To its credit, the federal government has recognized the need to assist small businesses. In 1932, as the country was reeling from the effects of the Great Depression, President Herbert Hoover established the Reconstruction Finance Corporation, which provided loans to all businesses impacted by the Depression. From the framework of the RFC, the Small Business Administration (SBA) was formed in 1953. Over the past 55 years, the SBA has established an impressive array of programs designed to help small businesses begin, expand and prosper. The SBA's programs include financial and federal contract procurement assistance, management assistance, and specialized outreach to women, minorities and armed forces veterans. These programs also cover a wide range of assistance, from helping veterans returning from active duty to providing assistance during federally declared disasters. However, unless a small business owner knows about the existence of these programs and the rules that regulate their use, the programs are virtually meaningless.

CIN recognizes the difficulty small business owners encounter in obtaining information on these programs. That’s why our research experts have combed through a maze of federal web sites and publications to provide an updated list which details basic information on each program in our newly revised SBA section. We invite you browse through the links that follow to find out important information about these pertinent programs.

We also recognize that this is a work in progress. New programs are sure to be added and others changed. Rest assured that our researchers and editors will stay abreast of these modifications and up-date this section on a regular basis.

Programs/Services:

This section includes outlines of the many programs currently available to small businesses. We have also provided links to pertinent web sites for each program for detailed information. Information on these programs can also be obtained at the local SBA office in your state. To find local SBA offices go to:
http://www.sba.gov/services/index.html