Introduction

Small businesses are the foundation of the American economy—one that that ensures opportunity and prosperity for everyone. Indeed, entrepreneurship is essential to an inclusive society where all Americans can thrive on a level playing field.

Small business ownership is a potent force that can help address the economic inequality that is holding us back from achieving our full potential—from providing sustainable high quality jobs to helping revitalize distressed neighborhoods and rural communities. A healthy entrepreneurial ecosystem provides an innovative and singular pathway for women, people of color, young adults, veterans, disabled people, immigrants and rural residents to enter the mainstream American economy and build income and independence.

The growth of the independent workforce adds yet another reason to support smart and bold policies promoting entrepreneurship. As the definition of work continues to evolve, we need policies that ensure the availability of affordable benefits, regardless of employment status, and solutions to help small, independent ventures thrive.

Unfortunately, Washington, when it’s able to get anything done at all, persists in pursuing policies that favor large corporations over Main Street. And, all too often small business is perceived as just another narrow interest group, not an essential component of our economic prosperity. Worse, small business’ good name is often hijacked to justify policies that ignore the real needs of America’s entrepreneurs in favor of policies that benefit a select few.

Contrary to a long-held misconception, while some small businesses may distrust government, they are not ideologically or reflexively anti-government. But, they want government to understand their needs and respond in a constructive manner—and then act on it. Small businesses and the evolving entrepreneurial economy continue to be misunderstood by policymakers on both sides of the aisle. Changing this counterproductive dynamic begins with smart policies aimed at ensuring entrepreneurial success in all segments of our society.

Small Business Majority has created a policy agenda that will promote a thriving economy and increase prosperity for all. Our agenda includes short and long-term recommendations that can be enacted at the national, state and local levels.

Detailed Policy Agenda