Small business isn't small at all

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Hector V. Barreto is the administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration.|ret||ret||tab|

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It is my pleasure to welcome you to a special section of the Springfield Business Journal, dedicated to the small-business owners of southwest Missouri.|ret||ret||tab|

Since this year is the 50th Anniversary of the Small Business Administration, small-business weeks all over the country are taking on special meaning for those of us who work for the small-business community.|ret||ret||tab|

Small businesses are so important to our country, economically. They employ 51 percent of the private-sector work force that's 57 million Americans! They create two out of three net new jobs and produce 51 percent of the private sector output. When you look at it that way, small business isn't small at all.|ret||ret||tab|

Most importantly, perhaps, is what small business means to our country in terms of our spirit. Small business is the embodiment of the American Dream. Today's entrepreneurs offer the vision of success to the next generation. Whether they are born here or come here from another country, their contributions are an essential part of our American fabric.|ret||ret||tab|

It's so important that we acknowledge what America's small businesses have given back to this country; that's what Small Business Week is all about. |ret||ret||tab|

I'm very proud of what the SBA has done for millions of entrepreneurs since 1953, and we are committed to empowering America's entrepreneurs for generations to come.|ret||ret||tab|

If you are thinking of starting a business, or are already a business owner, please give the Springfield branch SBA office a call, or visit our Web site at www.sba.gov. Our agency can help with access to capital, technical assistance, and facilitating opportunities for small businesses all of which helps them to grow and succeed over the long term.|ret||ret||tab|

We look forward to hearing from you. Happy Small Business Week!|ret||ret||tab|

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