WASHINGTON – The U.S. Small Business Administration is proposing increases in the size definitions for three broad commercial sectors.  The proposed increases cover size standards for 71 different types of businesses, two-thirds of them in retail trade sectors.  The rest are in accommodations and food services, and other services.

The changes, if adopted, will expand eligibility to small businesses and help them gain access to SBA’s financial assistance, contracting and other programs.

“SBA has undertaken a comprehensive review of our size standards to ensure they are current and reflect changes in the economy and the marketplace,” SBA Administrator Karen Mills said. “SBA’s lending and government contracting programs provide effective opportunities for small businesses to help them expand and create jobs, especially during these tough economic times. This review and proposed changes will help make these critical programs available to more small businesses and ensure SBA is in a position to be a real partner in helping our nation’s entrepreneurs and small business owners succeed.”