Federal Agency Highlights Its Legacy of Success in Supporting Millions of Small Businesses
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is proud to commemorate its 70th anniversary, marking seven decades of unwavering dedication to supporting America’s small businesses. Founded by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1953 through the landmark “Small Business Act,” the SBA was established with a clear mission – to protect and advance the interests of small businesses across the nation.
Administrator Guzman Rings the Closing Bell at NYSE
In celebration of this significant milestone, SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman will ring the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange on July 31 at 4 p.m. ET. The ceremony kicks off the SBA’s month-long anniversary celebration, recognizing the pivotal role the agency has played in empowering entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth.
Honoring Legacy Businesses
Throughout the coming days and weeks, the SBA will announce 68 Legacy Business recipients, recognizing their outstanding achievements and contributions to the business world. Many of these Legacy Businesses began as small enterprises and utilized SBA resources on their path to becoming household names. Events honoring these recipients will take place in multiple cities across the United States.
A Message from Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman
Administrator Guzman expressed her pride in America’s small businesses, describing them as giants in the economy. Over the past 70 years, the SBA has provided crucial support, knowledge, and funding to entrepreneurs, empowering them to launch and expand their ventures. The SBA has also played a crucial role in disaster recovery, ensuring both small businesses and the communities they serve can rebuild and thrive.
Administrator Guzman emphasized the undeniable results of the SBA’s efforts, which include financing billions of dollars, fostering iconic brands and innovative industries, and enabling millions of aspiring entrepreneurs to achieve their American Dreams of business ownership. The SBA’s dedication to entrepreneurship has contributed to fueling the world’s strongest and largest economy.
As the SBA enters its eighth decade, it continues to build on its legacy. The agency has recently experienced a record 12.2 million small business application boom, supported by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda and a strong commitment to equity. By expanding access to entrepreneurship in underserved communities, leveling the playing field, and creating equitable opportunities, the SBA is laying the foundation for lasting economic growth and enhancing the nation’s global competitiveness.
For Media Inquiries or Additional Information
For media inquiries or further information about the SBA’s 70th-anniversary celebration and its ongoing efforts to support small businesses, please contact rebecca.galanti@sba.gov.
Join us in honoring the resilience and ingenuity of America’s small businesses as we look back on 70 years of achievement and eagerly embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. Together, we continue to drive prosperity, innovation, and economic empowerment across the nation.
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