WHEREAS, over the past seven decades, the United States Small Business Administration (SBA) has implemented groundbreaking programs and innovative lending initiatives that have helped entrepreneurs transform the economic landscape of our nation; and
WHEREAS, small businesses are vital to driving the competition and the innovations that drive our economy and our country forward; the SBA plays a vital role in fostering entrepreneurship, ensuring capital access, assisting with contracts, and providing counseling services to small businesses and entrepreneurs so they have the opportunity to turn good ideas into great businesses; and
WHEREAS, through the SBA's loan guarantee programs, small businesses have thrived, creating millions of jobs, economic growth, and the realization of countless American Dreams; and
WHEREAS, with its firm commitment to promoting diversity and equity, the SBA launched the 8(a) Business Development Program, which provides support, mentorship and access to government contracts for socially and economically disadvantaged small business owners, opening the doors of opportunity for minority-owned businesses, thus creating a more inclusive and just economic landscape; and
WHEREAS, recognizing the extraordinary contributions that American women make to our economy, the SBA established the Office of Women's Business Ownership, empowering women entrepreneurs and women-owned small businesses to thrive; and
WHEREAS, with specialized resources, counseling, and access to federal contracting opportunities, the SBA continues to promote gender equity in business ownership and has helped women shatter glass ceilings and build strong, successful businesses that propel us toward greater economic prosperity; and
WHEREAS, in times of crisis, Economic Injury Disaster Loans offer a lifeline to devastated communities and accelerate the rebuilding process — revitalizing local economies — and help businesses foster resilience in the face of adversity; and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina encourages leaders, businesses, and community organizations to join in honoring the SBA’s remarkable legacy by continuing to support and uplift our nation’s small businesses;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim July 30, 2023, as “70th ANNIVERSARY OF THE UNITED STATES SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.
