USDA and SBA Join Forces for Rural Main Street

“Rural small businesses strengthen local economies – creating jobs and serving communities,” says SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman.

 “SBA’s partnership with USDA will build upon the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to investing in underserved rural Americans and providing the needed resources to help them start and grow their businesses to advance our economy and global competitiveness.”

“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. Strengthening our collaboration with the SBA helps us expand these opportunities for people to build brighter futures for generations to come,” says Agricultural Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres.

As part of the agreement signed yesterday, the agencies will work together to:

• Provide joint trainings, technical assistance and mentorship opportunities for rural small business owners and entrepreneurs.
• Help agricultural producers and small businesses identify ways to export their products around the world.
• Expand collaboration between USDA’s Rural Partners Network and SBA’s Resource Partners Network.
• Cross-promote programs that support rural businesses and socially disadvantaged communities, and more.