“Forty-five years ago today our nation embarked on a vision to ensure that minority-owned firms throughout the country could become critical economic agents of change and job creation. This vision led to the founding of the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), the only federal agency focused on strengthening the economic contribution of our nation’s 5.8 million minority-owned businesses. Today, more than ever, MBDA continues to play a vital role in growing the U.S. economy and providing jobs for Americans of all backgrounds and cultures by ensuring that minority-owned firms grow in size and scale.”

“We need strong minority businesses to achieve maximum economic growth and MBDA has been instrumental in laying the foundation that is giving rise to the fastest growing segment of the business community. We celebrate the journey travelled, but more importantly MBDA is ready to set the course for the next 45 years ahead. I’m certain MBDA will continue leading the effort in achieving our full potential and creating the next generation of minority-owned businesses. Happy 45^th Anniversary MBDA!”

Watch Secretary Pritzker’s video congratulating MBDA on their 45^th anniversary.