SmallBusinessNewz

Two months ago, the news broke that Steven Preston, head of the Small Business Administration, would be moving on.  He's now done so, but his position at the SBA has yet to be filled.

Although someone may assume the spot temporarily, the real job is likely to remain available until either McCain or Obama takes office.  For small business owners, this seems to mean that less will get done than might otherwise be expected.

Elizabeth Olson discusses all sorts of issues that groups were hoping to get worked out.  "Critics say the S.B.A. needs to broaden access to federally guaranteed loans . . . .  Minority business owners also complain the agency is not doing enough to help them find financing and contracts.  Female entrepreneurs are angry that the S.B.A. has not done more to help deliver a higher percentage of contracts . . ."

And now's not really the best time for a lapse affecting small businesses.  Luckily, the Senate is stepping up to some degree, with the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship in particular appearing to put forth an extra effort.

We'll be sure to report any SBA updates.  For the moment, Olson says Jovita Carranza is likely to take the reigns.