Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Every May, to commemorate Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, SBA highlights resources, funding, and training available to all AANHPI-owned small businesses and entrepreneurs.

• In 1978, the House and Senate passed Public Law 95-419 designating the first week of May as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Week 
• Congress passed  Congressional Law, Pub. L. 102-450 in 1992 designating May as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month permanently in the U.S. 
• In 1999, President Clinton passed Executive Order 13125, increasing participation of Asian American and Pacific Islanders in federal programs 
• Executive Order 13339 was issued by President George W. Bush in 2004, increasing economic opportunity and business participation for AAPI business owners 
• In 2021, President Biden issued Executive Order 14031, advancing equity, justice, and opportunity for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders 

On Thursday, May 26th at 1:00 p.m. EDT, SBA hosted the AANHPI Heritage Month Webinar. The discussion focused on the importance of financial wellness, creating generational wealth through business ownership, and increasing equity and access to opportunities to help uplift and support Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander-owned small businesses. 

SBA also hosts regular online training events  on a variety of topics for the new or seasoned small business owner. 

To provide the best possible resources to AAPI-owned businesses, SBA collaborates with its federal and non-federal partners to help small businesses grow and recover:

• Grow your business
• Funding programs
• Federal contracting

If you have questions about SBA’s programs and services, contact your nearest SBA District Office. SBA District Offices offer counseling, training, and business development.