Small businesses are really the engine in the economy.

President Obama vowed in his State of the Union address to make assisting domestic manufacturers a top priority for his second term.

One of the most important things we hear is the S.B.A. needs to be ubiquitous. We do all these things, but people still don't know.

Small businesses are really the engine in the economy.

I grew up in a family business... that really has provided the core of my belief in American small business, and in America's ability to grow and operate important businesses that can compete and be successful.

I think we've learned that the S.B.A. plays a critical role in providing access and opportunity when the market is not providing that access. We help banks get that money out into the hands of important and viable businesses, particularly those owned by minorities, women, immigrants and veterans.

I saw the S.B.A. with just enormous potential, and that's what I told the president - this is really a jewel.