Golden Introduces Bill to Expand and Reauthorize Small Business Development Center Program

WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) announced today the introduction of legislation to build on the success of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) program throughout the country. The Small Business Development Centers Improvement Act of 2023 would help strengthen the SBDC network — including the 21 SBDCs located throughout Maine — by authorizing an increase of $35 million in annual funding for the program over the next four years and allowing SBDCs to do more to build awareness of their programs and services. 

“From lobster boats to dairy farms to the shops in our towns and cities, Maine is home to over 100,000 small businesses,” said Golden. “Imagine if every one of the businesses in Maine knew about the no-cost services offered by Maine SBDCs that have helped small business owners across the Second District expand their businesses and create jobs in their communities. My bill will help spread the word about SBDCs and make sure that the help they offer stays available to Maine businesses.”

The largest Resource Partner within the Small Business Administration’s entrepreneurial development ecosystem, SBDCs help small businesses get off the ground and expand their capacity through low- or no-cost business training and advising in areas like business plan development, marketing and sales, e-commerce, and small business strategic planning. Maine has a lead SBDC located at the University of Southern Maine, which operates ten outreach locations in Maine’s Second District.

Maine is home to a total of 151,212 small businesses. 

“In 2022, Maine SBDCs worked with 2,284 Mainers looking to start, grow, or sustain their business,” said Maine SBDC State Director Mark Delisle. “Congressman Golden’s legislation not only ensures that Mainers have continued access to these no cost and vital services, but aims to broaden the reach of these resources. We thank Congressman Golden for continuing to be a champion for both SBDCs and Maine’s small business community.” 

House Small Business Committee Ranking Member Nydia Velázquez (NY-07) is an original co-sponsor of this legislation.

This legislation builds on similar legislation that Golden passed through the House Small Business Committee and the full House in 2022 and in2019. 

A copy of the bill can be found here. 

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