It's not government that creates jobs; it's small business. Our job is to make sure they have the access to capital, the access to contracting opportunities, and the help, advice and mentoring that they need to go out and be successful.

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

The morale when I came in was not the best. It was because the agency had not been valued.

Small businesses have told us that having cash in their pocket is one of the primary things that they need.

In October 2008, when the credit crunch hit, small businesses were really crushed by the lack of capital.

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.

Small businesses, you can give them capital, but what they often need as much is mentoring, advice and help with their business plan.