Small Business Administration chief talks the state of small businesses in the U.S.

June 17, 2026 - 03:22

The Reindustrialize Summit brought together top voices from manufacturing, technology, defense, and finance in Detroit for a focused discussion on rebuilding America's industrial power. Small Business Administration Administrator Kelly Loeffler joined CNBC's Leslie Picker on stage to talk about the current state of small businesses across the country.

Loeffler addressed efforts to strengthen the domestic manufacturing base, noting that small businesses remain the backbone of the economy but face shifting pressures. She pointed to sentiment among owners as mixed, with optimism tempered by ongoing supply chain concerns and labor shortages. The conversation also turned to artificial intelligence and its growing impact on Main Street. Loeffler acknowledged that while AI presents new opportunities for efficiency and growth, it also creates uncertainty for smaller firms that lack the resources of larger corporations.

The summit highlighted the need for policies that help small businesses adapt to rapid technological change without being left behind. Loeffler emphasized that access to capital and clear guidance on emerging technologies will be critical for keeping small enterprises competitive. The discussion underscored a broader push to ensure that the revival of American industry includes the mom-and-pop shops and startups that drive local economies.