U.S. Small Business Administration

Over the years, the SBA has developed many small business loan and assistance programs, special outreach efforts and initiatives to aid and inform small businesses. The following describes briefly all the services and information available through this office:

• Financial assistance for new or existing businesses through guaranteed loans made by area bank and non-bank lenders

• Free counseling, advice and information on starting, better operating or expanding a small business through (SCORE) Counselors to America’s Small Business, Small Business Development Centers, Women's Business Centers and Veterans Business Outreach Centers

• Assistance to businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals through the Minority Enterprise Development Program

• Special loan programs are available for businesses involved in international trade