o I have started several small companies and understand the challenges they face;

o I will create a cabinet-level Director of Small Business to encourage the creation and expansion of small business in Alabama;

o I will continue to recruit national and international clean industries to our state;

o I will ensure that those companies and industries which have invested Alabama for many years receive benefits similar to those we provide industries we attempt to attract to our state;

o My jobs agenda, titled "Putting Alabamians Back To Work," is available for download here.  I originally released it on December 7, 2009.

I have started several small companies, and understand the challenges they face.  Although small businesses create most jobs in Alabama, the state does little to help them.  As Governor, I will create a cabinet-level Director of Small Business to encourage and oversee the creation and expansion of small business in our state.  The Small Business Director will strengthen those businesses already here and help create new businesses in our state which will provide new jobs and opportunities for Alabamians.  The Small Business Director will also cut red tape that makes starting a new business difficult  

As Governor, I will continue to recruit national and international clean industries to our state. However, my first economic priority will be to create incentives for the existing businesses to expand in Alabama.  This will ensure that those companies and industries invested in our state for many years will receive benefits similar to those for industries we attempt to attract to our state.  I also will work with the legislature to create tax incentives to encourage new business growth for existing and new industry alike.