[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-

[[Page 4640]]

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