Moylan Introduces Bill to Boost Small Business Opportunities in Guam and Pacific Territories

(Hagåtña, Guam) — Congressman Moylan has introduced H.R. 8343 the Territorial Small Business Development Act of 2026, legislation to establish a dedicated Small Business Administration (SBA) assistance program for small businesses owned and controlled by residents of Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

The bill directs the SBA to create a program modeled after the agency’s 8(a) Business Development Program, allowing qualifying small businesses in Guam and the Pacific territories to compete for federal contracts, receive specialized technical assistance, and access business development resources that have helped companies in the states scale and compete in the federal marketplace. As defense construction and infrastructure investment increase across the region, the bill is intended to ensure more of those opportunities are accessible to locally owned companies.

Unlike the traditional 8(a) program, the legislation removes personal net-worth eligibility restrictions that often prevent otherwise qualified territorial business owners from participating, reflecting the higher cost structures and smaller market conditions unique to the Pacific territories.

“Small businesses in Guam and across the Pacific territories operate at a structural disadvantage compared to their mainland counterparts,” said Congressman Moylan. “This legislation creates a fair pathway for our local companies to compete for federal contracts, grow their capacity, and keep more of that investment circulating in our island economies.”

Under the legislation, eligible businesses must be at least 51 percent owned and controlled by residents of Guam, American Samoa, or the Northern Mariana Islands, maintain their principal place of business in one of those territories, and demonstrate residency in the region for at least 10 years prior to receiving assistance.

“Our entrepreneurs are ready to lead the next phase of economic growth in the region,” Moylan added. “H.R. 8343helps ensure they have the tools, access, and support to do just that.”

The bill was introduced with original cosponsors Congresswoman King-Hinds (R-CNMI) and Congressman Radewagen (R-American Samoa) and has been referred to the House Committee on Small Business.

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