Celebrating what makes our economy thrive

Day after day, our nation's small business owners' hard work, growth and innovation transform industries and create a majority of the jobs in the U.S.

Here in Illinois, 1.2 million small businesses employing more than 46 percent of the workforce are laying the foundation for economic success.

We're seeing the positive results play out across Illinois, in Main Street restaurants and retailers, as well as in high-growth disrupters, manufacturing hubs, and budding incubators.

For the past 54 years every U.S. President has proclaimed National Small Business Week to honor small business owners and thank them for their significant contributions to our economy.

This year, from April 30 to May 6, I ask you to join me and the SBA in celebrating the revitalization of America's entrepreneurial spirit and learn more about the resources available to help aspiring business owners thrive.

Leading our national celebration this year is SBA Administrator Linda McMahon, who knows first hand what it's like to take risks, manage cash flow, navigate regulations and create jobs.

Entrepreneurs serve as the CEO, the CFO, the CMO, the CIO, the janitor, the front desk person and more as they pursue the American dream, and it is critical that they have the skills and resources for success.

At the SBA we are committed to developing our programs effectively and efficiently to help business owners multi-task and keep our nation's economic engine running.

Small businesses are the engine of Illinois' economy, and they are able to succeed with help from the SBA and our partners, including Illinois Small Business Development Centers, volunteer SCORE mentors, Women's Business Centers, Veterans Business Outreach Centers, and others.

With groundbreaking strategies and in a wide range of industries, small businesses are fueling local communities.

The SBA will continue to lift up the entrepreneurs whose innovations will define our country's future. We will ensure small businesses have the financing, expertise and regulatory conditions required to compete.

And we will continue to be advocates for entrepreneurs and small businesses - whether they're just starting out, in need of financing, looking for new customers, or trying to get to the next level - and look forward to your continued support in doing the same.

Together, let's seize the opportunity the first week of May and beyond to highlight the impact of America's unsung heroes, our small business owners, and their supporters from all 50 states and U.S. territories.

Take part in the social conversation via #SmallBusinessWeek, and for information about events here in Chicagoland, visit www.sba.gov/il.

• Robert Steiner is SBA Illinois District Director.