What the SBA Actually Does “Most people think SBA equals money,” Shimkat explains. “And while we’re known for loan guarantees, we don’t provide direct funding except in disaster. What we do is reduce risk for lenders so small businesses can access capital.” Those guarantees make it possible for entrepreneurs to purchase equipment, expand operations, acquire facilities, or scale production. By sharing risk with lenders, SBA helps unlock growth that might otherwise stall. “We’re boots on the ground,” Shimkat says. “We’re working directly with businesses and lenders to expand opportunities so small businesses can grow and build wealth.” Her office represents SBA’s outward- facing presence — hosting roundtables, walking manufacturing floors, and carrying real-world concerns back to Washington.
“We’re working directly with businesses and lenders to expand opportunities so small businesses can grow and build wealth.”
—Lisa Shimkat
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2026 DISASTERS & RESILIENT CITIES EXPO MIAMI EDITION
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