GSA and SBA Open Doors to Small Businesses. Literally.

Editor's Note: This blog is co-authored by GSA Acting Administrator Dan Tangherlini and SBA Deputy Administrator Marie Johns. It was originally posted on GSA's blog.

Sometimes small businesses looking to do business with the federal government just need a little help getting the process started. That’s why the U.S. General Services Administration, in partnership with the Small Business Administration, hosted a small business open house and procurement fair at its headquarters today in Washington, D.C.

Delivering on President Obama’s commitment to helping America’s small businesses grow and prosper, GSA and SBA opened their doors to nearly 400 small business owners from across the country to provide information to small business on opportunities to work and partner with Federal agencies. Businesses also received updates on the Administration’s small business initiatives and resources available to them in their local communities. The event was held to coincide with 2013 Presidential inaugural activities, where many small business owners would be visiting the Nation’s Capital.

The open house kicked off with welcoming remarks from GSA Acting  Administrator Dan Tangherlini and Deputy SBA Administrator Marie Johns.

“We are here today to help you because we know the value that your businesses can provide the federal government and the American people, said GSA Acting Administrator Dan Tangherlini. “Expanding opportunities for small businesses is part of our mission and we will continue to strengthen these partnerships and support the success of our vendors.”

“This event is just the latest example of SBA’s commitment to to providing the access and opportunity they need to build successful businesses that create good jobs,” said SBA Administrator Marie Johns. Since President Obama took office, SBA has supported more than $104 billion in lending to more than 185,000 small businesses.

Each year since taking office, the Administration has provided nearly $100 billion in contracts to small businesses, with 2011 and 2012 being the two highest years of lending for SBA ever.  GSA works closely with SBA to assist small businesses in helping the government improve efficiencies and bring savings back to the taxpayer. Last fiscal year, GSA was rated an “A+” for exceeding SBA small business contracting goals in nearly all categories.

Together, SBA, GSA and the Obama administration will be with small businesses every step of the way – helping build businesses and a stronger, more durable middle class.

About the Author

Marie Johns is Deputy Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration. She is responsible for management and oversight of the agency, and leads the agency’s efforts to reach underserved communities.