Challenges for small biz

Access to capital remains an obstacle

Statesboro Appliance Center owner-operator Dwayne Conner, center, juggles work and parts orders with employee Paige Lee, left, and daughter Ashley Monday at the local West Main Street business.

052410 BIZ APPLIANCE 01web — Statesboro Appliance Center owner-operator Dwayne Conner, center, juggles work and parts orders with employee Paige Lee, left, and daughter Ashley Monday at the local West Main Street business.

Every year since 1963, the President has proclaimed National Small Business Week to recognize the contribution of small businesses to the well-being of America. The U. S. Small Business Administration estimates that there are 27.2 small businesses in this country, and that more than half of Americans either own or work for a small business. Facing a myriad of challenges in a troubled economy, local small business owners appreciate the recognition, but feel tough times still lie ahead.