The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), and the Small Business Administration (SBA) have partnered to present a series of regional events across America entitled, “Path to Prosperity”. The no-cost series features experts in the banking and lending industry, Federal Government and community partners and stakeholders. The series provide small businesses, including agriculture enterprises (farmers and ranchers), communities, and individuals’ useful information, tools, resources, and the opportunity to engage in dynamic discussions intended to create economic progress. Presenters shared how financial institutions, non-profits, and community-based organizations encouraged the development of a “Path to Prosperity” by:

• Incentivizing unbanked and under-banked small business owners and individuals to establish a sustainable relationship with an insured financial institution.

• Expanding technical assistance and financial education for small business owners and individuals to improve their bankability.

• Increasing the number of SBA certified lenders to provide access to capital for small, minority, and urban/rural underserved businesses.

• Developing contracting relationships with Federal government and private industry partners.