From : U.S. Small Business Administration
Location : Washington , D.C.
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Question :
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Thank you for your time and interest today. Please review the responses to previous questions. Time has ended now for this forum. If I was not able to respond to your specific question or the responses above do not address your concern, please e-mail me at ombudsman@sba.gov. In the subject line write: WebChat Follow-up. We will respond as soon as possible. Thanks again and best wishes to you all! -Nick
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From : regina hamilton
Location : baton rouge , la
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Question :
I am the ombudsman for Louisiana. I am impressed with this channel of information and the immediate responses provided. This is the first time that I have sat in to "hear" the q&a. Kudos to you and your staff.
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Thank you, Regina. Thanks for all you do to assist small businesses with fairness!
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From : BEATRICE HAMILTON
Location : HIGHLAND PARK , MICHIGAN
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Question :
I WOULD LIKE SOME INFORMATION ON WHERE TO GO TO GET HELP WRITING A BUSINESS PLAN TO SUBMIT TO MY CREDIT UNION FOR $125000 TO PURCHASED THREE BANK OWNED HOMES ONE WOULD BE AN ADULT FOSTER CARE GROUP HOME, ONE I WOULD LIVE IN TO RUN MY BUSINESS AND THE OTHER I WOULD LEASE TO GENERATE INCOME.
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www.sba.gov has extensive information on business plans. Best wishes with your plans!
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From : Raul Espinosa
Location : Saint Augustine , FL
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QUESTION: What can the Ombudsman’s Office do to help eliminate the FAR Exemptions?
BACKGROUND:: On September 4th, the SBA issued a historic ruling – although 10 years late – declaring the FAR Exemptions - specifically those which exempts small businesses from the Federal Supply Schedules – as ILLEGAL. The Fairness in Procurement Alliance (FPA) has alleged that this GSA illegal exemption, along with the ‘foreign exemptions’ which exclude small businesses from ‘foreign contracts,’ have been responsible for the illegal diversion of $640 Billions worth of federal contracts away from small businesses over the last decade. Both the GSA exemption [FAR 8.404(b)] and the foreign exemptions [FAR 19.000(b)] have been challenged at GAO. Additionally, the Office of Federal Procurement Policy Administrator has received a lawful request for him to rule on the ‘consistency of the FAR exemptions with applicable law’ which, in essence, could rescind these regulations which appear to have been included on the FAR to promote a procurement vehicle at the expense of small businesses.
The issues and the filings – including the GSA ruling - regarding the challenge against the FAR Exemptions can be accessed at http://www.fitnet.net/fpa/press/releases.html
Is the Ombudsman Office willing to go on record, as SBA has, demanding the elimination of the FAR Exemptions and/or asking the Office of Advocacy to issue an OPINION – as they often do on cases which affect small businesses?
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The National Ombudsman, as established by Congress assists small business with Federal regulatory enforcement concerns. You are welcome to file a case with my office at www.sba.gov/ombudsman. We will contact the appropriate officials on your behalf for response. You may contact Advocacy at www.sba.gov/advo.
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From : Andrew Hartley
Location : Columbus , OH
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I just read about the SBA's "Inner City" initiative. Can you give us more information about that, i.e. which 10 cities across the nation will be included?
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This is an exciting initiative to assist people from all walks of life achieve the American Dream of entrepreneurship. We will announce locations for the initiatives soon.
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From : Lupe
Location : San Antonio , Texas
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Question :
How can someone ask the government for a small business loan?
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You would need to apply with a financial institution - a bank or credit union. The Federal government does not issue loans directly for business capital, only for disaster assistance. SBA guarantees loans made by approved financial institutions.
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From : Bredgitt Walker
Location : Austin , Texas
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How do I file a formal complaint against SBA personnel to include my BOS/BDS?
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You may file a complaint with my office at www.sba.gov/ombudsman regarding an SBA employee.
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From : Bredgitt Walker
Location : Austin , Texas
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Question :
How do true and genuine small businesses 8(a) etc...Compete against Alaskan Native Corporations (ANC) and BIG Business on US federal government contracts set aside for small and disadvantaged businesses? How do we gain a foothold when the US federal government permits and allows for such behavior?
Set aside contracts are meant for true/genuine small and disadvantaged businesses. ANC'S have and continue to create shell companies and spit out SBA 8(a) certified companies under a Very Large Business. Small Businesses cannot compete when these (ANC'S) and Large Businesses are permitted to submit a bid on federal government contracts set aside for small and disadvantaged companies. It is unfair for them to be able to bid on contracts set aside for small disadvantaged businesses. I don’t believe that this is what Congress intended when they put certain/particular laws into place regarding SBA and doing business with the federal government. What’s happening to small business being “the backbone of our economy”? I will tell you that I believe it is being destroyed simply because ANC'S and Big Business have lots of money and lobby power which has and continues to create a monopoly when it comes to doing business with the federal government.
The ANC’S are a racket and monopoly and some non ANC Big Businesses have joined forces with them which has and continues to create an even larger racket/monopoly. It is time for the federal government to catch on and do something about this or it will continue to drive the legitimate small DISADVANTAGED and even some of the legitimate large companies out of business; creating an even larger monopoly within the US federal government.
How do true and genuine small businesses 8(a) etc...Compete against Alaskan Native Corporations (ANC'S) and BIG Business on US federal government contracts set aside for small and disadvantaged businesses? How do we gain a foothold when the US federal government permits and allows for such behavior?
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Ms. Walker, thank you for sharing your concerns. I will pass these comments along to the leadership of the agency involved with native american affairs and goverment contracting. Your concerns are important and I appreciate your submitting your question. Please file a comment with my office at www.sba.gov/ombudsman. We will respond to your questions in more detail. Thank you.
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From : derek
Location : san diego , california
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Question :
iam trying open small auto repair shop in our community .
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Let's not put the breaks on that! First, you want to consider local ordinances. Also, you will want to consider any potential environmental regulations from opening such a business involving petroleum. Feel free to e-mail me at ombudsman@sba.gov regarding any specific questions or concerns about starting your small business.
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From : ycrep
Location : Los Angeles , Ca
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Is it! Such a thing fairness! between Multi National and the Pa and mom Business?
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Fairness is important on all levels from local to federal regulations. My job is to help navigate America's small businesses through the rough seas of Federal regulations. We assist small businesses from a one or two person employee operation to a small manfacturing facility. If you have a specific concern, please file a comment online at www.sba.gov/ombudsman. Thank you.
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From : Naomi Scott
Location : Conyers , GA
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I am a minority trying to get my business started, can you please point me in the direction of grants that I am told repeatedly is available but cannot seem to locate same. Thanks for any information you can give me.
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First, I recommend developing a business plan. You may find local or state economic development resources with micro grant funding. However, SBA does not provide grants to start businesses. The SBA guarantees bank or credit union loans. Also, you will find additional information on sba.gov concerning financing your small business.
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From : Tina Azure
Location : Minot , ND
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Where can I find out information on regulations for doing business across seas and shipping regulations with other countries.
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I recommend visit the US Customs and Border Protection website. Also, for imports you may want to consider the Environmental Protection Agency for additional information.
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From : Ann
Location : , TN
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Are you getting a lot of nominations of federal regulations in need of review and reform? If so can you share some of the topics with us?
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The SBA's Office of Advocacy is conducting a "spring cleaning" through its r3 Initiative. Please visit www.sba.gov/advo/r3 for additional information. I know they are accepting nominations until the end of the year. The top ten regulations in need of review and reform will be announced next year. The r3 website will be updated in an effort to keep small businesses aware of the progress.
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From : Denise Hoomes
Location : Knoxville , TN
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Congress has recently passed legislation (effective October 1st) regarding new Woman-Owned Small Business goals. When will we see to final ruling?
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In the coming months. On October 4, the SBA announced steps to increase federal contracting opportunities for women-owned small businesses. The agency submitted a comprehensive new rule for interagency review and anticipates its publication in coming months. The new proposed rule is a necessary step, as SBA made substanial changes to the certification rule submitted earlier. SBA has implemented signficant new initiatives to increase small business access to government contracts.
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From : Elaine
Location : Jacksonville , Florida
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I understand that the irs is targeting sole proprieters due to recording keeping Does this mean that I should take on a partner in my business even though I do not need one at this time. Please help
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I recommend that you contact your local IRS Taxpayer Advocate's office. The office is independent within the IRS and assist taxpayers with inquiries. If you ever have an enforcement issue, please file a comment on www.sba.gov/ombudsman I did just read about the National Federation of Independent Business' document retention guide. It's an important issue and thanks for your question.
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From : rakib islam
Location : dhaka , dhaka
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wanna start business
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Visit www.sba.gov and click "getting started". The resource has a wealth of information for establishing small businesses.
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From : Orrin Wilson
Location : Bend , Oregon
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I run a company that manufactuers paints used by auto body shops for touch ups. We routinely have to dispose of toxic chemicals, and I am aware of the EPA rules...what I want to know is, how does a small business owner stay on top of their rules, the changes that occur i assume every year...we find it difficult to keep up with the paperwork, etc.
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Excellent point. Time and money are precious commodities to a small business owner. Fortunately, the SBA's Office of Advocacy monitors on your behalf, regulations as promulgated by Federal agencies to ensure that small businesses are not harmed and to evaluate potential unintended consequences of proposed rules. Visit www.sba.gov/advo for additional information. Also, a trade association websites for information relevant to your industry. If you ever have Federal regulatory enforcement concerns, where you believe an agency has been unfair or excessive, please do not hesitate to contact my office at www.sba.gov/ombudsman.
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From : Andrew Hartley
Location : Columbus , Ohio
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What regulatory concerns should be "on the radar" for web-based, information-product businesses?
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I would recommend visiting the Federal Trade Commission's website. The site has extensive information on regulatory issues that may impact business involved in this industry.
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From : Sheila Blalock
Location : Dorchester , MA
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Want to learn more about some issues that small business owners face?
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It is vital for America's small business to operate in an environment where regulations are effective, and not excessive. Please visit www.sba.gov/ombudsman. Click the Annual Reports section of our site. Comprehensive information is available regarding the challenges faced by small businesses. I travel the nation often, because it's important to get outside the Washington beltway -- to listen to, learn from, and better understand the concerns of America's small business owners. The three leading concerns for small business I hear 1. Taxes 2. Health Care Cost 3. Regulations.
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From : Lydia Seidenrose
Location : Burtonsville , Maryland
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Need to know how to effectively market with minimum cost.
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I would recommend that you make an appointment to visit a local Small Business Development Center. These centers are usually apart of a university's economic development program. Also, SCORE.org is resourceful. SCORE is comprised of working and retired executives, who give of their time and expertise, to assist entrpreneuers with issues such as your interest.
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From : Masud Hasnain
Location : Ashburn , VA
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My partner and I are at a very initial stage of starting a desserts or sweets business. What aspects do we need to take into consideration as we proceed in our business idea?
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Considering it's right after lunch, you hit my sweet spot. First, I recommend that you develop a solid business plan. Additional assistance is available at www.sba.gov - "getting started". There are great business tools that are available - online resources. Fee free to contact the Washington, DC SBA local office for assistance.
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From : Mike Folkins
Location : San Diego , CA
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Did you see our post re: XT-2000?
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Yes and responded accordingly
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From : Harmony
Location : ,
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Are there any changes occurring that would affect a small busines, SDVO or 8(a) organization?
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Change continues as Congress approves legislation to support the small business community. SBA continues to evolve as programs to aid small businesses are necessary. Small businesses function in today's ever changing, and dynamic marketplace. SBA recognizes this dynamic and and strives to respond with innovation. The ingenuity of America's small business owners did not come from the Federal government. SBA works closely with Congress to address concerns and further development programs designed to allow entreprenuers to start, grow, and succeed in the market.
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From : Mike Folkins
Location : San Diego , Ca
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Background: We own a chemical company called XT-2000. www.XT2000,com The product is registered by the EPA for the treatment and control of drywood termites. It is a d-limonene product comprised of 92% pure orange peel oil. The uniqueness of this material is that it has the ability to wick through wood much like gas and it kills termites 100% on contact. With our product and treatment method there is no need to move out of the property or worry about poison gas. Homeowners do not have to tent their homes, bag up all of their food and worry about plant or roof damage. Our caution label product is consumer friendly and has been marketed quite aggressively by Pest Control Operators throughout California. The response to the marketing has been overwhelmingly positive. But as a result of the success that this product has brought to certain pest control companies, it has caused a negative stir from the traditional tent fumigation companies. They are losing business while the Orange Oil companies are gaining business. The Structural Pest Control Board is attacking our method and attacking our marketing messages. Traditional fumigation companies have controlled the market since the beginning and have never had to deal with the threat of an alternative to their method of treatment. Here are some questions that we hope can be answered.
1. How can a small chemical company like XT-2000 respond to unfair attacks from the structural pest control board? www.pestboard.ca.gov The past and present SPC Presidents have all been experts in Fumigation, which gives them a closed mind on alternative treatments. All laws that have been passed have been set up to protect fumigations, while nothing has been passed to educate the consumer on the dangers of fumigation or other methods that may be less toxic. Termite control is just that, control. Once a home has been fumigated termites can and do return. IPM or Integrated Pest Management is the “New and preferred” way to control these pests. We want a voice that will help establish a recognized alternative to the traditional fumigation process.
How can the SBA help us?
Mike Folkins
President
XT-2000
616-454-2665
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It appears the structural pest control board is a state or local government entity. The jurisdiction of this office is Federal regulatory enforcement. However, you may wish to contact the State of California's Commerce Dept's Small Business Advocate for assistance. I am interested in the product. Feel free to file a comment with my office at www.sba.gov/ombudsman. We will gladly assist in faciliating communication with appropriate entities. Thank you for sharing this concern.
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From : Harmony
Location : ,
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Will we be able to see other questions people post?
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Yes. It's available on the SBA web page - the web chat icon.
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From : Thelma Jefferies
Location : Oklahoma City , Oklahoma
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HOW DO I FIND A GRANT OR LOAN TO START MY OWN BUSNIESS. I WANT TO START IN A DIFFERENT STATE.
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Great question. First, you want to develop a a solid business plan. Together with the plan, you may want to approach a lender - a bank or credit union. SBA does not have grants for capital. Also, SBA does not directly issue loans (with the exception of disaster loans), the SBA guarantees loans from financial institutions. I recommend to visit www.sba.gov on "getting started". Also, contact local SBA district office. Good luck!
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From : U.S. Small Business Administration
Location : Washington , D.C.
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Question :
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Good afternoon! Welcome to today's web chat. I'm Nick, the National Ombudsman for America's small businesses. It is a pleasure to join you. So let's get started!
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