US Small Business Administration

Founded in 1953, the U.S. Small Business Administration provides loan guarantees, contracts, counseling sessions and other forms of assistance to small businesses. Based in Little Rock, Ark., the administration provides individual face-to-face and Internet counseling for small businesses as well as low-cost training to nascent entrepreneurs and established-small businesses in over 1,800 locations throughout the United States and U.S. territories. The foundation also offers loans to victims of natural disasters and specialized advice and assistance in international trade. It provides assistances through several programs, including financial/federal contract procurement assistance and management assistance.