Guzman and Scholten toured the Downtown Market on Aug. 3, meeting with several small business owners who expressed their gratitude for the SBA, many of whom had sought assistance from the SBA during and following the pandemic.
Guzman said it was heartening to see small businesses be resilient. She said the SBA’s assistance was a testament to recognizing the importance of small businesses, especially for owners who may have started a new concept before the pandemic or decided to expand during that time.
“We want to make sure that the SBA is on the ground and is available to all businesses as they compete and grow and ensure that our economy continues to thrive so I was very pleased to be able to join the congresswoman here and meet these small business owners," she said.
Guzman commended the Downtown Marketplace for curating and supporting small businesses. She said new business applications have boomed under the Biden Administration and the aim now is to ensure the SBA meets the needs of small businesses everywhere.
Meanwhile, Scholten said she was pleased to show Guzman all the thriving and diverse businesses in West Michigan.
"I'm just bursting with pride," Schotlen said. "Small businesses are the beating heart of West Michigan and I'm was so excited to have administrator Guzman out here to just see all the incredible, thriving, diverse businesses across West Michigan."
She adds that it was also important for owners to meet with Guzman as well.
Note to readers and listeners: The broadcast version of this story aired on WGVU Aug. 7.