Women's Business Centers Improvements Act of 2018

Floor Speech

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 1680, the Women's Business Centers Improvements Act of 2018.

Small businesses are as diverse as our Nation, and the SBA entrepreneurial development initiatives are no different.

Women's business centers, or WBCs, are a critical initiative for female entrepreneurs. WBCs provide in-depth counseling, training, and mentoring to small firms, resulting in substantial economic impact.

Women businessowners have used this program to develop business plans, obtain financing, and expand their operations. As more women turn to entrepreneurship as a career path, it is critical this initiative remain in place to close these gaps.

Women are the fastest growing sector of entrepreneurs, and as more women establish home-based businesses, downsize from corporate executive positions, these centers are crucial in addressing the whole range of women's entrepreneurial needs.

The Women's Business Centers Improvements Act builds upon their success by creating uniformity through accreditation for WBCs and increasing maximum grant levels to ensure they have the resources to meet the growing demand for their services.

We all agree that women businessowners offer invaluable contributions to our economy, so we must step up to help them, and this legislation achieves that.

Mr. Speaker, I urge Members to support this legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, the United States has over 9 million women-owned firms, over one-third of all firms. Our economy relies heavily on women-owned small businesses, as they generate over $1 trillion in revenues and employ over 8 million workers. H.R. 1680 ensures that they have access to the tools they need to succeed.

Because nearly half of aspiring women businessowners report a lack of available mentors, we must take action to break down the barriers hindering their success. That is why it is imperative for us to pass this legislation today, ensuring access to mentorship and professional guidance to the fastest growing group of entrepreneurs.

Today's measure is endorsed by the Association of Women's Business Centers, along with other organizations.

Mr. Speaker, I urge Members to support this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

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