NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — The Small Business Administration is stepping up efforts to support rural America, with a focus on strengthening communities, boosting resiliency, and helping small businesses take advantage of new opportunities.
Bill Briggs, Deputy Administrator of the Small Business Administration, joined us on Thursday in the RFD-TV Studio in Nashville to share an update on the agency’s current priorities.
In his interview with RFD NEWS, Briggs discussed how the SBA is placing an emphasis on rural and underserved areas, including outreach to rural manufacturing companies and efforts tied to the “Made in America” initiative.
Briggs also touched on guidance for tax filing and how small business owners can capitalize on federal tax credits and deductions included in the “One Big Beautiful Bill” Act (OBBBA). Briggs highlighted new tools available to manufacturers, including the SBA’s introduction of the Manufacturer’s Access to Revolving Credit program.
In addition, Briggs addressed the agency’s work around natural disaster resilience and the availability of the SBA’s Red Tape Hotline, which helps small businesses navigate regulatory challenges. He also noted the EPA’s rescission of the 2009 endangerment finding, a move that is expected to reduce agricultural input costs and improve equipment reliability.
Corn growers are turning to ethanol, E15 expansion, and export markets to help absorb record supplies and stabilize prices. Farm leaders discuss low-carbon ethanol demand, flex-fuel vehicle challenges, input costs, and the role of USMCA as producers look for market relief in the year ahead.
January 20, 2026 02:04 PM
·
From rising trade tensions in Europe to a pending Supreme Court decision on tariffs and shifting demand from China, global trade policy spearheaded by President Donald Trump continues to shape the outlook for U.S. agriculture—adding uncertainty as farmers navigate another volatile year.
January 20, 2026 01:14 PM
·
The Surface Transportation Board rejects the proposed Norfolk Southern–Union Pacific merger, prompting concerns from agricultural shippers about rail consolidation, service reliability, and higher transportation costs.
January 20, 2026 12:25 PM
·
Congressional leaders signal momentum toward expanded, targeted farm aid to help producers manage losses and cash-flow stress in 2026.
January 20, 2026 11:48 AM
·
New Resource Makes It Easier for People to Access Data on Rural Development funded Projects in Rural Communities
January 19, 2026 11:50 AM
In a landmark ruling delivered in late 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court significantly narrowed the scope of the National Environmental Policy Act.
January 19, 2026 11:25 AM
·
Rising rural business confidence supports local ag economies, but taxes and labor shortages remain key constraints.
January 17, 2026 02:00 PM
·
CoBank Knowledge Exchange’s Jeff Johnston shares the group’s positive perspective on expanding data centers into rural areas and weighs the risks and rewards for those communities.
January 16, 2026 01:44 PM
·
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer discusses how January’s WASDE report could impact ARC and PLC payments and updates on disaster relief programs as farmers navigate a challenging market environment.
January 16, 2026 01:34 PM
·
