USBC Statement: Honoring Veterans and New SBA Ownership Flexibility

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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[WASHINGTON, D.C.] November 11, 2026 — Today, the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) joins the nation in honoring the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Black Americans have served this country in every conflict since its founding, often while being denied the very freedoms they defended. We thank every veteran and military family for their sacrifice. Their service continues long after they come home, and much of it happens on Main Street.

This Veterans Day also brings a meaningful change for veterans who want to own a business. The U.S. Small Business Administration has established new equity flexibility in its 7(a) Loan Program for veterans buying an existing small business. Acquisitions still require equity of at least 10 percent of total project costs. Until now, outside sources could cover only half of that contribution. Starting today and running through fiscal year 2027, eligible veteran buyers can meet the full requirement with permitted outside sources such as seller financing. That lets them keep their personal savings available for running and growing the business after the sale.

For Black veterans, this matters. The racial wealth gap means that the down payment, more than the ability to lead, is often what keeps a qualified buyer from closing a deal. Thousands of established companies will change hands in the coming years. Veterans bring the discipline, leadership, and operational skill to keep those businesses open, keep their employees working, and keep wealth rooted in the communities those businesses serve.

“Our veterans already know how to lead under pressure. What many have lacked is a fair path to the capital needed to buy a business,” said Ron Busby Sr., President and CEO of USBC. “This flexibility opens a door, and USBC intends to help Black veterans walk through it. We will work with our chambers, lenders, and SBA’s Veterans Business Outreach Centers to connect veteran buyers with businesses ready for their next owner.”

In the weeks ahead, USBC will share guidance with its network of more than 170 affiliated chambers and partners on our succession work, and how we plan to push for policies that make business ownership possible for more Black, veteran entrepreneurs. Veterans interested in acquisition opportunities can email programs@usblackchambers.org. For more information on the SBA's new guidance visit sba.gov/veterans.

USBC Offices are closed today to observe National Veterans Day holiday and will reopen tomorrow, November 12, 2026.

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About USBC:

The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) provides committed, visionary leadership and advocacy in the realization of economic empowerment. Through the creation of resources and initiatives, we support a network of African American Chambers of Commerce and business organizations in their work of developing and growing Black enterprises. Learn more at usblackchambers.org.