Which term is an independent government agency created to help Americans start, build and grow businesses?

• A. trade association
• B. demographics
• C. SCORE
• D. Small Business Administration (SBA)

Answer: (D)

This question tests recognizing the federal agency specifically established to help Americans start, build, and grow small businesses. The Small Business Administration is an independent government agency created for that purpose, offering loan guarantees, counseling, training, and resources to support entrepreneurs and small firms. It also runs programs to help small businesses win government contracts and access capital.

Trade associations are private organizations formed by businesses within an industry to advocate for shared interests, not government agencies. Demographics refers to data about populations, not an organization. SCORE is a nonprofit partner of the SBA that provides mentoring to small business owners, but it is not an independent government agency itself.