Washington, D.C. - Rep. Berman acted to create new jobs and drive economic growth today, with his vote in support of the Job Creation through Entrepreneurship Act. This bipartisan legislation gives small businesses and entrepreneurs some new tools and resources they can use to succeed and thrive.

The legislation, part of the Democratic agenda to create jobs, marks the first major overhaul of the Small Business Administration’s entrepreneurial development programs in a decade. It expands and improves some of the most successful programs, such as Small Business Development Centers, Women’s Business Centers and the Service Corps of Retired Executives. The bill also creates new online learning programs and establishes grant programs to assist small firms in securing capital and credit.

Economists estimate that for every dollar we spend on a successful entrepreneurship program, we see a $2.87 return to the Treasury. In 2008 alone, these development programs created 73,000 jobs.

The legislation also establishes, for the first time, a nationwide network of Veterans Business Centers to provide specialized entrepreneurial training and counseling to our nation’s veterans. 

This bill not only takes care of those who are struggling to get their small businesses through this economic crisis, but also provides resources for out-of-work Americans who want to make entrepreneurship their next career move. With this bill, our small businesses can lead the way toward putting Americans back to work.

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