Small business owners are navigating new opportunities, shifting priorities, and an evolving economic environment, making access to timely information essential. On the latest episode of the SBA Update, Tyler Teresa, Regional Administrator for the U.S. Small Business Administration, outlines what’s new at the agency and highlights the key issues entrepreneurs should be focused on as they plan for the year ahead.
As 2026 begins, business owners across the Southeast and beyond are showing renewed confidence, supported by a more stable policy environment, expanded access to capital, and a stronger federal emphasis on entrepreneurship. Following a productive 2025, many small businesses are positioning themselves for continued growth, investment, and expansion.
"2026 is going to be a big year for small businesses across the US.”
The SBA attributes this optimism to tax certainty, regulatory relief, and targeted financial tools that help businesses plan effectively and operate with confidence.
Teresa notes that one of the most important priorities for entrepreneurs is understanding recent tax and policy changes that affect long-term planning. For instance, he points to the “big, beautiful bill,” which made several tax provisions permanent, including the 20% qualified business income deduction. With clearer tax rules in place, business owners are better positioned to forecast expenses and reinvest in their companies. He encourages entrepreneurs to work closely with their tax advisors to fully understand how these changes apply to their operations.
The SBA is also expanding financial tools designed to improve access to working capital, particularly for manufacturers. A newly launched revolving line of credit program gives eligible manufacturers more flexibility to manage cash flow, purchase inventory, and respond to demand without relying on higher-cost financing.
Another primary goal is reducing regulatory burdens. The SBA has established a new deregulation task force, in partnership with its Office of Advocacy, to review and eliminate rules that impose unnecessary expenses on small businesses. Teresa states that these initiatives are already providing entrepreneurs with greater flexibility to operate, hire, and expand.
Moreover, access to guidance remains central to the SBA’s mission. Teresa highlights Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) as a critical resource, offering free consulting to entrepreneurs at every stage, from early planning to expansion. These services are widely available and funded but often underused.
On the financing side, Teresa reminds business owners that while the SBA does not lend directly, it guarantees loans made through banks and approved lenders, making capital more accessible. He encourages entrepreneurs to ask their local banks about SBA-backed loans. For smaller funding needs, SBA microloans provide an alternative for startups and early-stage businesses that do not require large amounts of capital.
Teresa also addresses misconceptions about eligibility, noting that businesses with up to 500 employees can qualify as small businesses under federal guidelines. Collectively, small businesses employ more than half of the U.S. workforce, reinforcing their importance to the economy.
Looking ahead, Teresa plans to spend more time meeting directly with business owners across the Southeast to better understand their challenges and ensure that SBA resources reach those who need them. Despite ongoing economic uncertainty, he says the current environment offers strong opportunities for entrepreneurs willing to plan carefully and seek out support.
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