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U.S. ECONOMY > State & Federal Finance > Federal Departments and Regulatory Agencies > Small Business Administration

Small Business Administration

409 Third Street SW.,
Washington, DC 20416
Phone, 202-205-6600.
Fax, 202-205-7064.
Internet, www.sba.gov

The Small Business Administration (SBA) was created by the Small Business Act of 1953 and derives its present existence and authority from the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 631 et seq.) and the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 (15 U.S.C. 661).

Activities: Advocacy
The Office of Advocacy is mandated by Congress to serve as an independent voice within the Federal Government for the approximately 23.7 million small businesses throughout the country. The Office is headed by the Chief Counsel for Advocacy, appointed by the President from the private sector with the advice and consent of the Senate, who advances the views, concerns, and interests of small business before the Congress, the White House, and Federal and State regulatory agencies.

The Office monitors the compliance of Federal agencies with the Regulatory Flexibility Act-the law that requires agencies to analyze the impact of their regulations on small entities and consider less burdensome alternatives. The Office is one of the leading national sources for information on the state of small business and the issues that affect small business success and growth. It conducts economic and statistical research into matters affecting the competitive strength of small business and jobs created by small business, and analyzes the impact of Federal laws, regulations, and programs on small businesses, making recommendations to policymakers for appropriate adjustments to meet the special needs of small business.

Additionally, regional advocates enhance communication between the small business community and the Chief Counsel. As the Chief Counsel's direct link to local business owners, State and local government agencies, State legislatures, and small business organizations, they help identify new issues and problems of small business by monitoring the effect of Federal and State regulations and policies on the local business communities within their regions.