The Energy Department helps small businesses succeed in emerging technologies and energy disciplines. The agency, in turn, benefits from the creativity and innovations of businesses that might not otherwise share in the work of their government. The Clinton-Gore Administration reports that small businesses employ 53 percent of the private work force and provide 55 percent of innovations. Small businesses account for 35 percent of federal contract dollars, and account for 28 percent of the high-tech jobs. Count on us to build on the record of accomplishment.
Small businesses are the engine that drives innovation and fuels our National economy.
And now for the announcements. First, starting this week, the Energy Department's Mentor-Prot g program becomes a permanent fixture in our efforts to help small businesses succeed in technical and energy fields. This program is popular because it allows small businesses to grow competitively in energy-related capabilities, technical skills or construction background. The program promotes partnerships between the Energy Department's prime contractors and qualified small, disadvantaged businesses. We've had 32 Mentor-Prot g agreements since this program was first introduced in 1995 as a pilot program.