In Maryland, small businesses represent 97.7 percent of the state’s employer businesses, employing about 53.4 percent of the state’s non-farm private sector workforce, according to a report issued today by the Office of Advocacy of the U.S. Small Business Administration.

“Clearly small business is a major part of Maryland’s economy,” said Thomas M. Sullivan, Chief Counsel for Advocacy. “Small businesses innovate and create new jobs at a faster rate than their larger competitors. They are nimble, creative, and a vital part of every community across the state. This report will help remind policymakers and others of the important role small business plays in Maryland.”

The State Small Business Profiles use the latest federal government statistics to detail small business’ contribution to the economy of the states. You can view Maryland’s 2006 profile here (pdf). You can browse all the profiles here.