WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House Committee on Small Business Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Tax, and Capital Access is holding a hearing titled “Investing in America: How Private Equity Empowers Main Street.”

Subcommittee Chair Beth Van Duyne’s opening statement as prepared for delivery:

Welcome to today’s hearing, “Investing in America: How Private Equity Empowers Main Street.”

First, I want to thank our witnesses for being here today. We know you have traveled a long way to share your experiences and perspectives, and we greatly value your time and voice.

Small businesses are the foundation of our communities and the driving force of the American economy. Whether it’s a family-run distribution center, a growing manufacturer, or a tech startup finding its footing, these businesses are responsible for nearly two-thirds of new job creation in America.

In North Texas, we’ve seen how entrepreneurs and small, family-run businesses alike can build long-lasting enterprises and often outcompete their larger counterparts.

Today’s hearing will explore how private equity serves as a critical tool in helping entrepreneurs gain access to capital and enjoy the benefits of a long-term partnership with investors that helps them navigate challenging barriers with expertise and key resources.

From day one, the Trump Administration has worked with Congressional republicans to roll back the burdensome regulatory red tape that, for too long, has blocked private capital from reaching the businesses that need it most. By removing these unnecessary barriers, we can ensure that investors and entrepreneurs have the ability to make crucial investment decisions in our communities.

In 2024, 85 percent of all private equity investments went to supporting small businesses, and these investments are driving local job creation, strengthening operations, and fueling business growth to new levels. Unlike traditional funding methods, private equity can bring more than just capital. It allows businesses to scale up, adopt new technologies, and strengthen their workforce.

Across every state and Congressional district, private equity is empowering American entrepreneurs to build and expand their businesses from the ground up. But for far too long, private equity has been concentrated in places like Silicon Valley, New York, and Boston. Now, cities like Dallas and Austin are emerging as dynamic hubs for private equity investors and those seeking investment in their small businesses. In fact, the downtown Dallas area represents one of the fastest-growing innovation and investment corridors in the country.

I’m pleased to hold this hearing today to highlight the role of private equity in the small business ecosystem and discuss how we can bring these opportunities to more Americans throughout the country.

Thank you again for being here today, and I look forward to the conversation ahead.

I now recognize the distinguished ranking member from New Jersey, Ms. McIver, for her opening remarks.

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