Small Business Exports

According to Census data, approximately 1% of small businesses in the United States currently export. With roughly three-quarters of world purchasing power and almost 95% of world consumers living outside of U.S. borders, more attention is being paid to the potential of small business export promotion programs to grow small businesses and contribute to the national economic recovery. In addition, some Members of Congress believe that the contributions of small businesses to commercial innovation and economic growth could be enhanced through greater access to growing international markets. This book begins with the history, role, and scope of the Small Business Administration's (SBA) export promotion activities, and the creation of OIT. Next, quantitative data from SBA and qualitative data from other sources are used to provide performance analysis of SBA's international programs. It presents three issues or consideration during an era where concerns of fiscal responsibility and economic recovery are high priorities for many policy makers. The book concludes by discussing the SBA's need to improve collaboration to implement its expanded role; and the impact of credit availability on small business exporters.