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Just in time for the holidays, Rep. Henry Cuellar hosted an informational webinar on current resources and loans available to small businesses.
Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration were guest speakers on the webinar where they provided information on free business consulting, SBA guaranteed business loans, home and business disaster loans and federal government contracting.
Before the SBA regional representatives spoke, Cuellar gave some insight as to why this webinar was important for those in South Texas.
“I’ve seen firsthand how South Texas small businesses serve as economic engines for their communities. I hosted a webinar today to showcase the many federal resources available to small businesses for continued entrepreneurial success,” said Cuellar, a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee. “In Congress, I will continue to fight for South Texas small business owners so all members of our community can thrive. Thank you to the U.S. Small Business Administration for working with me to inform businesses of the federal resources available to them.”
Edward Jones and Abby Gonzalez are apart of SBA, and they gave different presentations on what they do and what the SBA does as a whole.
Supporting small businesses has become more popular within government the last few years. Shopping small, dining small and supporting small. Instead of the typical “Small Business Saturday,” the SBA is encouraging a “Season of Small Business,” encouraging Americans to use the holiday season to support small.
Under the Biden and Harris administration there has been a “Small Business Boom” with 14.6 million new applications filed for small businesses over the last two years. Texas alone has had 1 million new small business applications.
“We know that rural areas might operate differently when it comes to small business,” Jones said. “We have looked at policies to address those disparages and access to capital. We look to expand our network for those who file with SBA.”
Gonzalez — who is the SBA regional communications director for Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma and New Mexico — gave the audience keep tips on small businesses and the importance of loans.
The SBA helps recovering businesses, those who want to start a new business and even those who want to buy an already established business. A small business varies by industry. Most would think its a popup shop, but number of employees and annual revenue helps define what is a small business.
The SBA also runs Veterans Business Outreach Centers. For those veterans who are looking to start a business, there are resources within the SBA.
“We work alongside the lenders to guarantee business owners the opportunity to capital,” Gonzalez said. “SBA Loans can be used to start or expand business, working capital, operating expenses, purchase equipment, purchase land or buildings and the type of loan will depend on these services. But if you are unsure, I recommend speaking to our resource partners and they will point you in the right direction.”
Laredo is apart of the San Antonio SBA district, where most will find the answers to any questions they have. For more information on everything small business, head to SBA.gov.
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