U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small recently announced the strengthening of a longstanding partnership with the Small Business Administration (SBA). The move is intended to create jobs and expand access to new and better market opportunities for people in rural America.
The announcement echoes the Biden-Harris Administration’s stated commitment to using a whole-of-government approach to rebuild the economy, particularly in the nation’s most underserved and rural communities. “At USDA, we are redoubling our commitment to drive economic security and prosperity for people in rural America, so they can find opportunities to succeed right in the places they call home,” stated Torres Small.
SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman echoed these sentiments, highlighting the critical role of rural small businesses in strengthening local economies and advancing global competitiveness.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed on November 20, 2023, between USDA and SBA. This MOU commits to increasing investments in small and underserved communities to help grow the rural economy and create good-paying jobs nationwide. It also aims to expand opportunities for rural technical assistance providers, entrepreneurs, cooperatives, and small business owners while providing resources to help rural businesses compete in both domestic and international markets.
Key actions included in the MOU comprise joint trainings, technical assistance and mentorship opportunities for rural small business owners and entrepreneurs. The agencies aim to aid agricultural producers and small businesses in identifying ways to export their products globally. They also plan to expand collaboration between USDA’s Rural Partners Network and SBA’s Resource Partners Network and cross-promote programs that support rural businesses and socially disadvantaged communities.
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