The Small Business Administration was established in 1953 to aid, counsel, and protect the interests of the Nation's small business community. The Agency accomplishes this in part by working with intermediaries, banks, and other lending institutions, to encourage and promote loans and venture capital financing to small businesses. SBA offers small business loans through its 7(a) Loan Guaranty and Certified Development Company Programs, and venture capital through its Small Business Investment Company Program. SBA also provides loans to non-profit organizations to fund small loans (up to $25,000) to small businesses.