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Another problem occurs when there are data reporting problems in organizations affiliated with the SBA. For example, a GAO report on the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (SBTT) programs could not determine their compliance with SBA spending requirements because most agencies submitted incorrect data. [http://www.gao.gov/assets/670/669651.pdf (GAO SBIR/SBTT)] GAO also found problems in collecting and reporting data within Small Business Investment Companies (SBIC), and recommended that the SBA provide guidance on how to collect and report data on their investments in minority, women, and veteran owned businesses. [http://www.gao.gov/assets/680/674812.pdf (GAO SBIC)] '''How can the SBA give such recommendations to its subsidiary programs when it fails to adequately report its own data?'''
Concrete data from the SBA and its subsidiaries and affiliated programs is difficult to find, largely due to internal SBA practices, including management and technological shortcomings. Various GAO reports suggesting the SBIC consult with the SBA to determine best data collection and reporting methods are flawed in that the SBA hasn't established those best practices for itself.
