Bill Clinton

“ At the heart of our free enterprise system are the Nation's 21.5 million small businesses. They are the engine of our economy, keeping America competitive in domestic and global markets. These businesses demonstrate by their achievements and success that the promise of the American Dream is within the grasp of every one of our citizens.
America's small business entrepreneurs are risk-takers, venturing into new and often uncertain territory. As a Nation, we are indebted to these bold men and women. ”

“ As we approach a new era of economic opportunity, our Nation's small business owners continue to inspire us by their example. On behalf of all Americans, I thank these hardworking citizens across the country for helping to keep the American Dream alive. ”

“ Through much of this period, small businesses generated most of the Nation's new jobs. Today, they employ almost 60 percent of the country's private work force.
Growing numbers of women and minorities are empowering themselves through small business ownership, taking risks, and pursuing their entrepreneurial ambitions. New programs are teaching business ownership skills to our youth. And our Administration's Reinventing Government initiative-building a government that works better and costs less-will help sustain this entrepreneurial spirit for generations to come. ”