In a significant move aimed at revitalizing rural America, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small announced a reinforced collaboration with the Small Business Administration (SBA). The partnership is designed to stimulate job creation and enhance access to new market opportunities for individuals in underserved rural communities.
Torres Small emphasized the Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to a comprehensive, whole-of-government approach to rebuild the economy from the bottom up and middle out, particularly focusing on the nation's most neglected and rural areas. The USDA, under this initiative, is redoubling efforts to drive economic security and prosperity in rural America, fostering opportunities for success within the communities residents call home.
SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman highlighted the pivotal role of rural small businesses in strengthening local economies, creating jobs, and serving communities. The partnership with USDA aligns with the administration's dedication to investing in underserved rural Americans, providing essential resources to support the initiation and growth of businesses, ultimately advancing economic competitiveness on a global scale.
The collaboration, formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed today, involves a commitment from both USDA and SBA to increase investments in small and underserved communities. The overarching goal is to stimulate the rural economy and create well-paying jobs nationwide.
Additionally, the agencies pledge to expand opportunities for rural technical assistance providers, entrepreneurs, cooperatives, and small business owners. This includes providing resources to help rural businesses compete both domestically and internationally, reflecting a comprehensive approach to fostering economic growth in these regions.
Key components of the MOU involve joint initiatives such as:
Joint Trainings and Mentorship: Both agencies will provide joint training sessions, technical assistance, and mentorship opportunities for rural small business owners and entrepreneurs, enhancing their skills and capabilities.
Global Market Access: Collaborative efforts will be made to help agricultural producers and small businesses identify opportunities to export their products worldwide, expanding the reach of rural products in international markets.
Network Collaboration: The MOU outlines plans to expand collaboration between USDA’s Rural Partners Network and SBA’s Resource Partners Network, creating a more extensive support system for rural businesses.
Program Cross-Promotion: The agencies commit to cross-promoting programs that support rural businesses and socially disadvantaged communities, fostering a more inclusive and equitable economic landscape.
This strategic partnership reflects a broader commitment by USDA to transform America’s food system. This transformation includes a focus on resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy, and nutritious food in all communities, and making historic investments in infrastructure and clean-energy capabilities in rural America.
