After four years as Administrator of the SBA, I have let President Obama know that I will not be staying for a second term. I will stay on until my successor is confirmed to ensure a smooth and seamless transition.

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

I recently had the opportunity to participate in 'Inc.''s first-ever 'Hire Power Awards' event in Washington, D.C. The event was a testament to the power of American entrepreneurship and the role that it plays in driving job creation and innovation in a wide array of industries.

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 want things streamlined, and one of the great successes we're having is less paperwork, faster turnaround times.

Health care is the No. 1 concern of small businesses and the status quo is untenable.