Gabriel J. Esparza
Associate Administrator, Office of International Trade
US Small Business Administration
Alma Maters: Harvard University, Stanford University
Gabriel Esparza is the associate administrator for the Office of International Trade at the US Small Business Administration. He leads SBA’s efforts to expand US exports by providing expertise and technical assistance to small business exporters, advancing favorable trade policy that ensures access to foreign markets, and by offering grants and other trade financing solutions.
With a wealth of global understanding and perspective gained through professional and personal experience, Gabe is highly sought after for his leadership in both business and community affairs. He is a seasoned executive with over twenty-five years of experience leading private sector businesses spanning both large corporations and nimble start-ups. Prior to joining the SBA, he was an investor, advisor, and operator in a variety of entrepreneurial ventures. Earlier in his career, Gabe spent thirteen years at American Express, including as vice president of global business development.
He is a frequent guest lecturer at various business schools and currently serves as a trustee of the Central Piedmont Community College of North Carolina. From 2009 to 2018, Gabe served as a public official in the City of Los Angeles, having been appointed by the mayor to the Board of Civil Service Commissioners. He holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a BA in International Relations from Stanford University.
