FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 30, 2026
Contact:
Madison Hardy
Janessa Tolman
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) today celebrated the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) commitment to establish a Veteran Business Outreach Center (VBOC) in Idaho, expanding access to entrepreneurial support for veterans, service members, and military spouses.
“Idaho is home to more than 12,000 veteran-owned small businesses and providing these entrepreneurs with an in-state resource will greatly benefit our veterans and our state,” said Risch. “I look forward to continuing to work with SBA and state partners in opening this Idaho-based VBOC to serve our veterans, reduce barriers to entrepreneurship, and watch these businesses succeed.”
“The SBA is pleased to grow our network of VBOCs to expand the dedicated resources that Idaho veterans and service members deserve to start and grow their small businesses,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “I want to thank Senator Risch for his strong advocacy on behalf of Idaho’s veteran entrepreneurs, and for his partnership in bringing more resources to bear for those who served our nation. Under the leadership of President Trump, this Administration is proud to deliver the wraparound services to help veterans transition to the important mission of entrepreneurship.”
In June 2026, Risch sent a letter to the SBA requesting an Idaho-based VBOC. Idaho was previously served by the Pacific Northwest Regional VBOC in Washington.
Risch, a current member and former chairman of the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, is a steadfast advocate for veterans and local entrepreneurs. Risch has led efforts to ensure these Idahoans have full access to their earned benefits and federal resources for long-term success.
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About Jim Risch
Jim Risch proudly represents the people of Idaho in the United States Senate. He currently chairs the Foreign Relations Committee and sits on the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Risch previously served as Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and State Senator. For the latest press releases and constituent services visit risch.senate.gov.
