SBA and DOL Unite to Strengthen U.S. Manufacturing Sector

Jul 17, 2025
By Farms.com

Agencies Unite to Grow Jobs and Back Small Manufacturers

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to support the revival of American manufacturing. This agreement will enhance cooperation between the two agencies, promote data-sharing, and expand support for small domestic manufacturers.

The partnership connects SBA’s loan and contracting programs with DOL’s workforce development efforts. Together, the agencies aim to build a skilled workforce, support small businesses, and help shift supply chains back to the U.S.

The agencies will expand collaboration on initiatives like the Registered Apprenticeship Program and Veteran Employment Training Services. SBA will also provide training to support small manufacturers through its 7a and 504 loan programs, making it easier for producers to access capital and government contracts.

The new agreement aligns with President Trump’s goal of restoring industrial strength and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers. It also supports the Made in America Manufacturing Initiative, launched by SBA Administrator Loeffler, which focuses on cutting unnecessary regulations, improving access to funding, and promoting workforce development.

SBA has also introduced an Onshoring Portal. This tool connects small businesses with over 1 million U.S. suppliers, helping entrepreneurs grow their operations and source materials locally instead of depending on foreign producers.

With nearly 98% of U.S. manufacturers classified as small businesses, this effort is designed to ensure they have the tools, workforce, and capital to succeed in a global market.

This joint approach marks a new chapter in U.S. industrial recovery, helping to grow the economy and create more jobs for American workers.

Video: Dicamba Returns for Georgia Farmers: What the New EPA Ruling Means for Cotton Growers

After being unavailable in 2024 due to registration issues, dicamba products are returning for Georgia farmers this growing season — but under strict new conditions.

In this report from Tifton, Extension Weed Specialist Stanley Culpepper explains the updated EPA ruling, including new application limits, mandatory training requirements, and the need for a restricted use pesticide license. Among the key changes: a cap of two ½-pound applications per year and the required use of an approved volatility reduction agent with every application.

For Georgia cotton producers, the ruling is significant. According to Taylor Sills with the Georgia Cotton Commission, the vast majority of cotton planted in the state carries the dicamba-tolerant trait — meaning farmers had been paying for technology they couldn’t use.

While environmental groups have expressed concerns over spray drift, Georgia growers have reduced off-target pesticide movement by more than 91% over the past decade. Still, this two-year registration period will come with increased scrutiny, making stewardship and compliance more important than ever.