It is hereby declared to be the public policy of this state and the purpose of this article to improve and stimulate the state's economy in general, and the small business segment thereof in particular, by establishing a program to stimulate and supplement the flow of private equity capital and long-term loan funds which small business concerns of this state need for the sound financing of their business operations and for their growth, expansion and modernization, and which are not available in adequate supply. It is the intent of the legislature that this policy shall be carried out in such manner as to insure the maximum participation of private financing sources. It is further hereby declared that the public welfare of the state demands the establishment of such a program to provide for the maximum development of this state's agricultural, industrial and commercial resources, offering increased employment opportunities for all of the citizens of the state, encouraging the establishment of new agricultural, industrial and commercial enterprises and providing the citizens of the state of all races greater opportunities for entrepreneurship.