WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, on National Whistleblower Day, the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General (SBA OIG) joins the nation in honoring the courageous individuals who speak out against fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in federal programs.
National Whistleblower Day commemorates the founding resolution passed by the Continental Congress on July 30, 1778 — in the midst of the Revolutionary War — declaring it the duty of all persons in the service of the United States to report misconduct and corruption to the proper authorities. Nearly two and a half centuries later, that foundational duty remains vital to the health of the American republic.
Whistleblower disclosures are a primary driver of federal oversight, generating critical leads that allow SBA OIG special agents, auditors, and analysts to uncover complex fraud schemes, recover stolen funds and hold wrongdoers accountable.
“On July 30, 1778, our founders recognized a fundamental truth: a free republic cannot survive without internal accountability, and daylight is the best remedy for misconduct,” said Inspector General William W. Kirk. “Whistleblowers do not merely point out wrongdoing — they defend the American Dream. At the SBA OIG, we recognize the immense courage it takes to step forward and blow the whistle on fraud, waste, and abuse. We remain committed to thoroughly examining any retaliation against those who come forward, investigating their disclosures with rigor and ensuring taxpayer dollars reach the legitimate small business owners who drive our nation's economy.”
The SBA OIG maintains a secure, confidential Hotline to receive tips and allegations of fraud, waste or abuse from federal employees, contractors, grantees, and the public. Federal law strictly prohibits retaliation against whistleblowers, and the SBA OIG vigorously investigates allegations of reprisal against those who report wrongdoing.
As the SBA OIG continues its work protecting federal relief programs, government contracting set-asides, and small business capital programs, the contributions of whistleblowers remain an irreplaceable pillar of public trust.
Reporting Suspected Fraud
Anyone with knowledge of suspected fraud, waste, abuse, or misrepresentation involving SBA programs or personnel is encouraged to report it confidentially to the SBA OIG Hotline:
- Online Portal: sba.gov/oig/hotline
To learn more about the SBA OIG’s independent oversight mission, visit sba.gov/oig.
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Media Contact SBA OIG:
Andre N. Harris
Director of Strategic Communications
U.S. Small Business Administration, Office of Inspector General