Small business may have small in its name, but there is nothing small about its impact on the American economy. Just ask U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Kelly Loeffler, who joined the Gwinnett Chamber for its October On Topic: State of Small Business luncheon, presented by Northside Hospital.

With approximately 36 million small businesses nationwide, representing 99 percent of all U.S. businesses and nearly half of the nation’s economic output, their collective influence is anything but modest. And according to Loeffler, ensuring those businesses have the confidence, capital and opportunity to grow is central to the SBA’s mission. The former business executive and U.S. senator brought both private-sector experience and a national perspective to the conversation, joined by Thomas Kimsey, Associate Administrator of the SBA’s Office of Capital Access, for a fireside chat focused on entrepreneurship, manufacturing, workforce development and the federal government’s role in supporting small business success.

One of the day’s more compelling observations was also one of its simplest. Few things demonstrate confidence in the economy, like a business owner making the decision to hire another employee or a lender making the decision to invest in a company’s future. Both require a willingness to take risks, and both have the potential to create opportunities that extend well beyond the business itself. That confidence is precisely what the SBA aims to strengthen. The SBA reported guaranteeing an average of 1,600 small business loans each week during fiscal year 2025, representing more than $860 million in weekly financing. For business owners seeking to expand operations, purchase equipment, increase production or bring on employees, access to that capital can make the difference between having a plan and putting it into motion.

Manufacturing was another major focus of the discussion, and for good reason. According to the SBA, 98 percent of American manufacturers are small businesses. That’s a powerful reminder that the country’s industrial capacity is not built exclusively by large corporations. Thousands of smaller companies are producing the parts, products, technology and innovations that keep American industry moving. Loeffler discussed the importance of rebuilding domestic supply chains, expanding manufacturing capacity and preparing the next generation of skilled workers. Recent global disruptions have underscored the risks associated with depending too heavily on overseas production, particularly for products and materials essential to the nation’s economy and security. To help address these challenges, the SBA recently partnered with the U.S. Department of War to establish the Smaller War Plants Commission. The initiative aims to strengthen domestic manufacturing by expanding access to capital, reducing regulatory barriers and supporting small businesses that supply the nation’s defense industry. With small firms accounting for more than 70 percent of that industry, the effort reinforces a central theme of Loeffler’s message: strengthening America’s manufacturing future starts with investing in its small businesses.

For Gwinnett, where advanced manufacturing and international business are important parts of the local economy, these national priorities have a particularly meaningful connection to the businesses operating in our own community. And one of those businesses was in the room to prove it. Lisa Winton, CEO of Suwanee-based Winton Machine, attended the luncheon following her company’s recent national recognition in the SBA’s Freedom 250 Patriot Pitch Competition. Selected from more than 1,100 applicants nationwide, Winton Machine advanced to the final five businesses invited to compete in Washington, D.C., earning second place and $250,000 in prize funding. The competition, held in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, recognized entrepreneurs demonstrating innovation, sound business practices, job creation and the potential to strengthen American competitiveness. With more than 20 years of involvement in Gwinnett’s business community, Winton Machine’s national recognition is a testament to the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit thriving right here at home.

The discussion also addressed the SBA’s work beyond lending, including efforts to reduce regulatory burdens, support businesses recovering from declared disasters and connect entrepreneurs with resources that might otherwise be difficult to access. Loeffler acknowledged that small business owners rarely have the same legal, financial or advocacy resources available to larger corporations, making the agency’s role as a resource and advocate especially important. Her invitation to the business community was straightforward: seek out the opportunities available, engage with SBA representatives and lenders, and communicate what businesses need to succeed. After all, the impact of small business is measured in more than the number of companies operating across the country. It is reflected in the jobs they create, the innovations they bring to market and the communities they help strengthen.

Join us for our next On Topic luncheon, Transportation Talk, presented by Northside Hospital, on November 4, featuring Georgia Department of Transportation Commissioner Russell McMurry. From infrastructure investment to the future of mobility, we’ll explore the transportation priorities shaping Georgia’s continued growth and what they mean for businesses throughout our region. Register online today.