On February 24, 2025, newly appointed SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler issued a memo (see the memo in full here) detailing her immediate priorities for the agency. Emphasizing an “America First” approach, Loeffler outlined key initiatives aimed at revitalizing small businesses, promoting domestic manufacturing, and ensuring accountability within the SBA.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) plays a crucial role in supporting entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses, particularly those driving innovation and economic growth. With the recent appointment of SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler, new priorities have been set to enhance small business support, strengthen domestic manufacturing, and streamline funding opportunities.
For businesses and organizations in the innovation ecosystem, particularly those seeking non-dilutive funding, understanding these policy shifts can help position them for new opportunities.
Key Priorities & Their Impact on Innovation
- Expanding Support for Small Businesses & Startups: Administrator Loeffler has emphasized the importance of small businesses in fueling economic expansion. The SBA will continue to provide resources, mentorship, and funding support to help early-stage and high-growth companies scale.
- Strengthening U.S. Manufacturing & Supply Chains: As manufacturing plays a critical role in innovation, businesses focused on hardware, advanced materials, or supply chain solutions may find new funding streams and incentives to support their growth. Strengthening domestic production can benefit startups developing cutting-edge technology.
- Enhancing Access to Capital & Grant Funding: The SBA is committed to increasing access to capital, including grants, loans, and investment programs. For those in R&D or high-tech sectors, this means potential expansions in funding vehicles such as SBIR/STTR programs, as well as improved pathways to securing working capital.
- Regulatory & Policy Updates Affecting Entrepreneurs: With any leadership change, policy adjustments are expected. Startups and small businesses should monitor changes in federal grant compliance, procurement policies, and economic development programs to ensure alignment with evolving regulations.
Strategic Steps for Securing SBA-Backed Funding
- Stay Informed on New SBA Programs: Regularly review SBA announcements, especially those related to innovation and small business support. Staying updated on policy shifts will help businesses seize new opportunities as they emerge.
- Assess Funding Alignment with SBA Priorities: Businesses should evaluate how their projects align with SBA-backed initiatives, particularly in advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and emerging technologies. Tailoring funding applications to match these priorities can increase the likelihood of securing support.
- Engage with SBA-Funded Business Resources: Connect with Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), Women’s Business Centers (WBCs), and local innovation hubs. These organizations provide free or low-cost guidance, networking, and training that can strengthen grant applications and funding readiness.
- Ensure Compliance & Readiness for Funding Opportunities: Having an active SAM.gov registration, well-organized financials, and a strong track record of previous funding success can streamline the application process for SBA grants and contracts.
- Leverage Expertise in Grant Writing & Evaluation: Navigating federal funding can be complex, especially for startups new to the process. (Hey!! We specialize in helping businesses develop competitive funding applications, craft compelling grant proposals, and measure program impact to demonstrate return on investment.)
- Diversify Funding & Growth Strategies: While SBA funding is a valuable resource, it’s also important to explore other federal, state, and private funding sources. Strategic funding roadmaps, like those of our Grant Funding Research service, can help businesses build sustainable growth strategies.
The SBA’s evolving priorities offer new opportunities for businesses looking to innovate, scale, and contribute to economic development. By staying proactive, engaging with available resources, and strategically positioning themselves for funding, startups, and small businesses can maximize their potential for success.
If you’re looking to explore funding options, develop a competitive grant strategy, or ensure compliance with new SBA policies, E.B. Howard Consulting is here to guide you. Reach out to learn more about how we can support your growth and funding success.
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We assist our clients in locating, applying for, and evaluating the outcomes of non-dilutive grant funding. We believe non-dilutive funding is a crucial tool for mitigating investment risks, and we are dedicated to guiding our clients through the entire process—from identifying the most suitable opportunities to submitting and managing grant applications.