Teresa Leger Fernandez: “Happy Small Business Week. Today, I rise to recognize the Small Business Administration's support and advocacy for…”

“Happy Small Business Week. Today, I rise to recognize the Small Business Administration's support and advocacy for businesses and communities as they sustain and strengthen the backbone of the American economy. I especially thank SBA New Mexico District Director John Garcia. Through financing, information, and guidance, our small-business community benefits daily from the resources and support that Mr. Garcia and his team provide. Last year, SBA marked its 70th anniversary. Nationally, there are 30 million small businesses. In New Mexico, 95 percent of our businesses are small businesses--162,000 strong. Our small businesses employ 340,000 individuals, and we are growing at a rapid rate, with 7,270 new businesses opening during the March 2021-2022 period. From green chili farmers to independent bookstores to small manufacturing plants, our small businesses line our Main Streets and bring economic vitality to our communities. This Small Business Week, I recognize SBA's storied past and the even stronger future we will create. ____________________”