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ETA News Release: [08/22/2002]
Contact Name: Elissa
Pruett
Phone Number: (202) 693-4676
U.S. Department of Labor
and Small Business Administration Launch Project GATE, a One-Stop Service For
Entrepreneurs
Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao Initiates
Innovative Project to Help Entrepreneurs Achieve American Dream
WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao has
initiated an innovative demonstration project with Administrator of the Small
Business Administration Hector Barreto to create, support and expand small
businesses. The Growing America
Through Entrepreneurship, or Project GATE, was
unveiled today at the Nueva Esperanza Community Development Corporation and
Chinatown Friendship Gate in Philadelphia.
Nine million dollars ($9,000,000) over the next five (5) years will be
deployed to energize local small business formation through combining the
workforce development programs at the Department of Labor with economic
development programs. The U.S. Department of Labor’s One-Stop Career
Centers will assist entrepreneurs in accessing both Department of Labor
training and assistance programs and micro-loans provided by the Small Business
Administration (SBA).
“Small business owners are the bedrock of America’s economy as
small businesses create the bulk of new jobs in our economy.” Chao said.
“The goal of Project GATE is to help entrepreneurs access the wide array
of available government assistance, training, and funding resources to help
their businesses to succeed and grow.”
Philadelphia is the first site selected under this Project GATE
initiative. Project GATE will target an additional urban site and four rural
sites. Innovative community outreach initiatives will ensure the funding,
training and assistance are accessible to diverse populations. The
demonstration project will streamline the U.S. Department of Labor’s
microenterprise training initiatives into one program that will be made
available to aspiring entrepreneurs through the Department’s local
One-Stop Centers.
In addition, the Small Business Administration’s Microloan Program
will be integrated into Project GATE. Authorized in 1991, the Microloan Program
provides very small loans and technical assistance aimed toward
“pre-bankable” small business owners. Small loans of up to $35,000
are delivered through a network of private, non-profit organizations
(intermediaries) located in approximately 170 areas nationwide.
Beginning August 29, 2002, additional information on Project GATE can be
obtained through the U.S. Department of Labor toll-free number: 1-866-677-GATE
(4283).
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