Legislative findings and intent.

The Legislature finds that the ability of entrepreneurs and small businesses to access capital is vital to the overall health and growth of this state’s economy; however, access to capital is limited by the lack of available credit for entrepreneurs and small businesses in this state. The Legislature further finds that entrepreneurs and small businesses could be assisted through the creation of a program that will provide an avenue for entrepreneurs and small businesses in this state to access credit. Additionally, the Legislature finds that business management training, business development training, and technical assistance are necessary to ensure that entrepreneurs and small businesses that receive credit develop the skills necessary to grow and achieve long-term financial stability. The Legislature intends to expand job opportunities for this state’s workforce by expanding access to credit to entrepreneurs and small businesses. Furthermore, the Legislature intends to avoid duplicating existing programs and to coordinate, assist, augment, and improve access to those programs for entrepreneurs and small businesses in this state.