The USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small announced today the strengthening of its longstanding partnership with the Small Business Administration (SBA) to create jobs and expand access to new and better market opportunities for people in rural America. Torres Small emphasized the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to rebuilding the economy for the American people, especially in underserved rural communities. She highlighted USDA’s dedication to driving economic security and prosperity for people in rural America.

The collaboration with the SBA is intended to help expand opportunities for people to build brighter futures for generations to come. SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman expressed that rural small businesses strengthen local economies, creating jobs and serving communities. She highlighted the importance of investing in underserved rural Americans and providing them with the resources needed to start and grow their businesses.

Through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed today, USDA and SBA are committing to increase investments in small and underserved communities to help grow the rural economy and create good-paying jobs nationwide. Additionally, the agencies are committing to expanding opportunities for rural technical assistance providers, entrepreneurs, cooperatives, and small business owners. They will also provide resources to help rural businesses compete in both domestic and international markets.