SBE Council Statement of Support for House Resolution Supporting Rural Communities, H. Res. 1182

By SBE Council at 21 April, 2026, 8:55 am

The following statement of support for H. Res. 1182, Supporting Rural Communities, can be attributed to Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council (SBE Council) President & CEO Karen Kerrigan:

“SBE Council strongly supports H. Res. 1182, a resolution recognizing the indispensable role that rural communities play in powering America’s economy and sustaining our nation’s long-term growth and stability. From energy production and agriculture to manufacturing and environmental stewardship, rural America remains a cornerstone of U.S. economic strength.”

“At the heart of this contribution are entrepreneurs and small businesses – the farmers, energy producers, manufacturers, contractors, and Main Street small businesses that drive local economies and create opportunity where it is needed most. Small businesses account for the overwhelming majority of firms in rural America, serving as job creators, innovators, and community anchors. Their ability to start, grow, and compete not only sustains local economies but also strengthens national supply chains, supports domestic production, and enhances U.S. economic resilience.”

“Rural entrepreneurs play an especially critical role in key sectors highlighted by this resolution. In energy, small and independent producers are vital to maintaining reliable and affordable domestic supply. In agriculture, family-owned farms and agribusinesses feed the nation and support global food security. In manufacturing, rural-based small firms contribute to production capacity and industrial innovation. These businesses operate in challenging environments, facing limited access to capital, workforce shortages, and infrastructure gaps. Still, they continue to deliver outsized economic value. Thankfully, the U.S. House has advanced a range of legislative initiatives that are addressing these key challenges, delivering both support and hope to rural communities.”

“H. Res. 1182 appropriately recognizes that policies supporting rural communities must also prioritize the success of the entrepreneurs and small businesses that power them. By fostering a policy environment that reduces barriers, expands access to resources, and supports investment, Congress can ensure that rural America remains a vibrant engine of growth, job creation, and opportunity.”

“We commend the House of Representatives for recognizing the essential contributions of rural communities and urge continued focus on policies that empower the small businesses and entrepreneurs who are central to their success.”

SBE Council is a nonpartisan advocacy, research and education organization dedicated to protecting small business and promoting entrepreneurship. For more than 30 years, SBE Council has advanced a range of private sector and public policy initiatives to strengthen the ecosystem for strong startup activity and small business growth.

Visit www.sbecouncil.org for additional information. X: @SBECouncil