Congress’ failure to fully reject the rescissions package is a devastating blow to American small businesses working in international development. These companies—based all over the country—represent the backbone of U.S. foreign assistance implementation. They bring efficiency, innovation, and problem-solving to the most pressing global challenges while supporting jobs and economic growth at home.
These latest actions come on top of an already devastating year for small businesses. With the dismantling of USAID, thousands of contracts were canceled without explanation or recourse. Longstanding partners lost nearly all of their revenue overnight, putting payroll, lending relationships, and business viability at risk.
This rescissions package makes that damage permanent. It pulls back congressionally approved funds that could have reinstated contracts, stabilized operations, or honored existing obligations. It also rewards executive overreach and undermines Congress’s constitutional authority over federal appropriations. If allowed to stand, the rescissions package will set a dangerous precedent, one where future administrations can unilaterally dismantle programs and partnerships without oversight.
U.S. international assistance is not charity, it’s a strategic tool to advance American national security, economic, and humanitarian interests. And American small businesses are uniquely positioned to deliver it effectively. As the engine of our economy, small firms are capable of doing this work with agility, value for money, and a deep understanding of local contexts. Preserving their role is critical, not just for development outcomes, but for U.S. global competitiveness.
We welcome the removal of PEPFAR from the rescissions package and commend Congress for upholding bipartisan support for that lifesaving program. But this action must not obscure the broader harm. The remaining rescissions will defund programs that promote global health, prevent disease outbreaks, and strengthen U.S. alliances and influence abroad.
We urge Congress to reject the full rescissions package, restore funding, and reaffirm the central role of American small businesses in delivering results for U.S. foreign assistance. We are ready to serve. We simply need the resources and respect to do so.
