News From the
Committee on Small Business
Nydia M. Velázquez, Chairwoman


For Immediate Release                                                       CONTACT:  Alex Haurek; Duncan Neasham
May 20, 2009                                                                                                                 (202) 226-3636

Congressional Committee Honors Entrepreneurship
Small Businesses from Across Country Testify in Honor of National Small Business Week

WASHINGTON, D.C. —As the nation observes “National Small Business Week,” nine small business owners from across the country testified today before the House Small Business Committee about how they are moving the economy forward through innovation and job creation. Lawmakers praised the entrepreneurs, saying they exemplify the determination, hard work and creativity that will help the nation emerge from the current recession stronger than ever.

“National Small Business Week is a time to recognize our small businesses’ achievements, and to support their innovation and growth,” said Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY), Chairwoman of the House Small Business Committee. “From the local mom-and-pop shop on Main Street to the cutting edge small firms developing state-of-the-art technology, small businesses in major cities and small towns in every region of the country are doing their part to help lead our nation back toward economic prosperity.”

Entrepreneurs told the Committee that the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act has begun to turn the economy around. One firm that is a leading innovator in modern, clean, efficient urban transportation described how small businesses are benefiting from the Recovery Act. In particular, witnesses praised the Recovery Act’s $21 billion in small business lending initiatives, and provisions promoting a new green economy.

“Following the recession of the early 1990’s, small firms generated 3.8 million new positions for American workers,” Velázquez said. “Small businesses can help us get things back on track—if they have the right tools.”

Several panelists credited the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) entrepreneurial development programs for giving them important tools to help them succeed. They hailed the Committee for passing the bipartisan “Job Creation Through Entrepreneurship Act of 2009,” legislation to expand and modernize these services. The full House of Representatives was slated to pass the bill later on Wednesday.

“Starting your own business is never easy, but these programs can make the difference for innovative entrepreneurs to overcome the challenges of turning the dream of business ownership into a successful venture,” Velázquez said. “Supporting and promoting small businesses is a proven way to strengthen our communities and create good-paying jobs.”

Lawmakers also praised the philanthropic role small businesses often play. Many of the business owners said their deep local roots make it natural for them to support their community by volunteering, mentoring, and assisting nonprofit organizations. One witness testified that their environmental stewardship efforts have gained them international recognition as a leader in eco-tourism, helping them further grow their business and support hundreds of local jobs.

“Main Street businesses are often the anchors of their local communities,” Velázquez added. “Not only do they create jobs and foster economic growth, but many of them give back in other ways, building better neighborhoods, towns and cities.”

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To view the hearing, click here.