    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 124, 111th Congress, 2nd Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    PROCLAMATION 8525--MAY 20, 2010

    Proclamation 8525 of May 20, 2010
    Small Business Week, 2010
    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    Small business owners embody the spirit of entrepreneurship and strong
    work ethic that lie at the heart of the American dream. They are the
    backbone of our Nation's economy, they employ tens of millions of
    workers, and, in the past 15 years, they have created the majority of
    new private sector jobs. During Small Business Week, we reaffirm our
    support for America's small businesses and celebrate the proud tradition
    of private enterprise they represent.
    Our Nation is still emerging from one of the worst recessions in our
    history, and small businesses were among the hardest hit. From mom-and-
    pop stores to high tech start-ups, countless small businesses have been
    forced to lay off employees or shut their doors entirely. In these
    difficult times, we must do all we can to help these firms recover from
    the recession and put Americans back to work. Our Government cannot
    guarantee a company's success, but it can help create market conditions
    that allow small businesses to thrive.
    My Administration is committed to helping small businesses drive our
    economy toward recovery and long-term growth. The American Recovery and
    Reinvestment Act has supported billions of dollars in loans and Federal
    contracts for small businesses across the country. The Affordable Care
    Act makes it easier for small business owners to provide health
    insurance to their employees, and gives entrepreneurs the secu-

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    rity they need to innovate and take risks. We have also enacted new tax
    cuts and tax credits for small firms. Still, we must do more to empower
    these companies.
    In this year's State of the Union address, I proposed creating a $30
    billion lending fund to help increase the flow of credit to small
    businesses, and I call on the Congress to pass this legislation quickly.
    My Administration is also working to extend and enhance Small Business
    Administration programs that have helped small business owners acquire
    loans and hire workers.
    This week, we celebrate the role of entrepreneurs and small businesses
    in our national life. They are the engine of our prosperity and a proud
    reflection of our character. A healthy small business sector will give
    us vibrant communities, cutting-edge technology, and an American economy
    that can compete and win in the 21st century.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
    America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
    the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 23 through May 29,
    2010, as Small Business Week. I call upon all Americans to recognize the
    tremendous contributions of small businesses to our Nation with
    appropriate programs and activities.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of
    May, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence
    of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.
    BARACK OBAMA