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From Small Business Administration Blog
February 19, 2013 - 10:17am

The Great Recession technically ended back in 2009, but you wouldn’t know it from the way Americans are spending (and saving) these days. Despite some natural post-election optimism, issues such as rising food and energy prices, Congress’ “fiscal cliff” and debt ceiling struggles, and the rise in the payroll tax mean Americans are still clutching their wallets tight. With many Americans widely feeling that “we’re not out of the woods yet,” how can your small business develop marketing messages that resonate with penny-pinching prospects?

From Small Business Administration Blog
February 19, 2013 - 7:26am

In the market for a business loan? Heard about SBA loans but not really sure how they work or how to go about applying for one?
The following are common questions that small business owners have about SBA loan programs and the loan application process.
1. How do SBA loans work?
While the SBA does offer numerous loan programs to help small business owners finance their businesses, it doesn’t actually lend businesses the money. Instead, a bank makes the loan, which is backed by the SBA. This allows the bank to take a little more risk than they otherwise might.

From Department of Commerce Blog
February 15, 2013 - 4:00pm
Deputy Secretary of Commerce Rebecca Blank visited BMW Manufacturing today and delivered remarks on the President’s plan to make America a magnet for jobs and manufacturing. The Deputy Secretary highlighted the President’s proposals for a new Investing in Manufacturing Communities Partnership, the SelectUSA program, and the National Network for Manufacturing Innovation.  Blank’s visit comes on the heels of President Obama’s State of the Union Address, in which he outlined a broad agenda for revitalizing U.S. manufacturing, spurring innovation, and accelerating export growth.
From Department of Commerce Blog
February 15, 2013 - 11:15am
Ed. note: This post is part of the Spotlight on Commerce series highlighting members of the Department of Commerce and their contributions to an Economy Built to Last.
From Small Business Administration Blog
February 14, 2013 - 3:25pm

During the initial stages of the business credit building process, I’m sure you have heard about the importance of setting up a commercial office location. A physical location that is zoned for business speaks volumes for your company and its operation.
If you decide to use your home address for your company’s business address, keep in mind that some lenders may not extend credit to a “home-based” business. However, you still have many credit opportunities with a home-based business; so don’t let that stop you.

From Department of Commerce Blog
February 14, 2013 - 3:15pm
Earlier this week, the Federal Triangle Partnership, consisting of the U.S. Department of Commerce, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Agency for International Development, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, hosted its annual program commemorating the 2013 National Black/African American History Month. The 2013 national theme is “At the Crossroads of Freedom and Equality: The Emancipation Proclamation and the March on Washington.”The keynote speaker was Ms.
From Department of Commerce Blog
February 14, 2013 - 3:00pm
Last week, President Obama signed an Executive Order to strengthen the cybersecurity of this nation’s critical infrastructure. Threats from cyber attacks that could disrupt our power, water, and other critical systems are one of the most pressing risks facing both our nation’s security and our nation’s economy in the 21st century.
From Small Business Administration Blog
February 14, 2013 - 1:10pm

For the sixth consecutive year, the U.S. Small Business Administration is seeking small businesses to partake in its highly successful Emerging Leaders executive-level training initiative that provides them with the tools they need to sustain and grow their businesses.
Recruitment Underway

From Small Business Administration Blog
February 14, 2013 - 11:41am

Yesterday, I was in Memphis, Tenn., visiting the West Tennessee Ornamental Door Company, a thriving manufacturer of steel security doors, fences and gates for homes and businesses. The company received SBA loans to support the working capital needs of their business—and it’s now positioned for growth and to create more jobs.

From Department of Commerce Blog
February 14, 2013 - 10:00am
Ed. note: This post is part of the Spotlight on Commerce series highlighting members of the Department of Commerce and their contributions to an Economy Built to Last.Guest blog post by Izella Mitchell Dornell, Deputy Chief Information OfficerAs Deputy Chief Information Officer for the Department, I am responsible for leading the effort that provides Department Information Technology (IT) program and project oversight for all major IT investments all appropriately aligned with the Department and mission objectives and goals.

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