Global Small Business Network program

(a) Establishment The Secretary, in consultation with other relevant agencies, is authorized to establish a Global Small Business Network program (referred to in this section as the program) to be administered under the direction of the Assistant Secretary for Commercial Diplomacy. (b) Director The Assistant Secretary for Commercial Diplomacy shall designate an officer or employee of the Department to serve as the Director of the program. (c) Purpose The purpose of the program is to— (1) enhance the ability of small business concerns in the United States that are affiliated with a small business development center to export to foreign markets and take part in international commerce; (2) facilitate partners for small business concerns in the United States; (3) promote the establishment, development, and strengthening of small businesses and small business networks in foreign countries participating in the program; and (4) promote resilient business environments in foreign countries through the development of small business development centers in foreign countries, particularly in the Western Hemisphere and in new foreign markets.