2026 annual report
STRONGER TOGETHER
powered by small business
America’s SBDCs are proud to showcase our results across the following three categories:
Financial Acquisition + Economic Return
Sales Growth, Scaling + Strategic Planning
Navigating Complexity + Building Foundation
“My SBDC advisor is a wealth of knowledge.”
– Jan Jaffe, Owner of Make Music Ellensburg
Financial Acquisition + Economic Return
SBDCs bridge the gap between great ideas and capital funding. Consultants guide entrepreneurs through the rigorous planning and financial projections lenders require, transforming raw ambition into investment-ready enterprises. This preparation unlocks the funding that builds storefronts and creates jobs. The result is a clear return on investment: thriving local economies that drive national growth.
nearly 10X
New businesses working with the SBDC generated nearly 10X the return for every $1 invested
In Minnesota, La Michoacana Purépecha received critical funding by utilizing SBDC guidance on the application process for the Main Street Grant, which allowed the owner to invest in equipment and shop improvements.
Total Capital Acquired by SBDC Clients
$5.53 BILLION
“SBDC has been invaluable to AnywhereCam. Through our relationship with the SBDC, we got access to the software LivePlan, which we used to create the financial models that helped us raise $750,000 in our seed round.”
– Mike Blecha, Founder, AnywhereCam
$5.2 BILLION
Financing Accessed by Clients
In Wyoming, Java Moon saw 20% sales growth annually for the last 3 years.
Sales Growth, Scaling + Strategic Planning
Opening the doors is only the beginning; the deeper challenges lie in sustainable expansion. SBDC advisors partner with established business owners to diagnose operational bottlenecks and uncover untapped markets. This strategic oversight empowers businesses to multiply revenue, enter new territories, and modernize infrastructure. This guidance transitions businesses from survival mode to sustainable expansion, creating the stability that benefits communities for decades.
$5.1 BILLION
Client Sales Generated
In Washington, Circle Creek Therapy grew from a sole practitioner to a business with 30+ employees and executed a major 19,000 square foot expansion in 2025.
>2X faster
Sales growth by SBDC clients compared with the average U.S. business
“Having my SBDC advisor believe in me, to help me believe in myself, and guide me through this process has been amazing.”
– Vicki Hebert, Owner of Smugglers Cove Flagging
68,033
New Full-Time Equivalent Jobs Created
“Finding the right support with the SBDC really helps.”
– Chrissy Davenport, Founder of Re-Ewe’able
Navigating Complexity + Building Foundation
True innovation happens when entrepreneurs have access to the right support system. SBDC consultants act as strategic partners, offering the critical insights and connections that spark new growth. This guidance creates a solid operational infrastructure, allowing owners to move past daily obstacles and focus on the big-picture vision that drives our economy forward.
96%
of businesses that worked with the SBDC would recommend them to other businesses
“It wasn’t just about starting a business, it was about making a lasting impact. I saw a need in the community and knew I had the tools to help.”
– Leonard Daye, Owner of Toastique
272,679
Total Clients Served
In Maryland, Crepes in the Park successfully transitioned from a franchise model to independent ownership, utilizing SBDC guidance for the relaunch strategy, HR support, and technical assistance.
1.2 MILLION
Total Advising Hours
The true value of the SBDC network is measured not in hours logged, but in the genuine partnerships formed between advisors and clients.
Beyond technical assistance, our advisors serve as dedicated mentors who invest personally in the long-term success of every entrepreneur they assist. This human-centric approach empowers business owners to grow the ventures that anchor our economy.
Learn more about the
local impact
of the 63 sbdc networks
Local Resources
Contact your local SBDC to connect with an advisor or inquire about specific training for small businesses ready to take the next step or get started.
source of statistics
“Economic Impact of Small Business Development Center Counseling Activities in the United States: 2023-2024,” by Professor James. J. Chrisman of Mississippi State University. (This report assesses the economic impact of long-term SBDC counseling activities. Long-term clients are defined as those who received a minimum of five hours of counseling assistance from the SBDC.)