For Immediate Release: December 13, 2023
Contact: press@americansforsmallbusiness.org
Launching a New Era of Advocacy for America’s Small Business Community
Washington, D.C. – Today, Americans for Small Business (ASB), a non-partisan and non-profit advocacy organization was launched in Washington, D.C. with a mission to amplify the underrepresented voice of our nation’s job creators. ASB will focus on building a sustained resurgence of Washington-based support for America’s entrepreneurs who represent the heartbeat of our economy. With a strong network of 25,000 small businesses that represent every sector, ASB is led by a common goal to ensure that no business is left behind.
Americans for Small Business hosted a kick-off reception in the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center on Tuesday evening, featuring several remarks from U.S. Congressional members including Chairman Roger Williams (R-TX) of the House Small Business Committee.
Former U.S. Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy (D-FL), a strong advocate for small businesses during her tenure representing Florida’s 7th District, also delivered remarks and participated in a fireside chat focused on the challenges faced by small businesses.
“As so many small business owners are focused on taking care of their employees and growing their business, they don’t have the time to track legislation and advocate on their behalf,” said Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy. “That’s why I’m so glad Americans for Small Business is stepping up to the plate to be their champion in Washington. ASB gives voice to hardworking people who are continuing the great American entrepreneurial tradition of job creation, innovation, and delivering goods and services to their communities. Having served in Congress and worked firsthand on tax policy, I understand the need to support small business owners and the critical role they play in our economy. I’m looking forward to ASB’s advocacy as a leading voice for small business owners and their employees throughout the country.”
Congressman Bill Johnson (R-OH) also attended ASB’s kick-off reception. Johnson serves on the Energy and Commerce Committee and the House Budget Committee.
“As a former small business owner, I’ve consistently supported and advocated for legislation that creates jobs, encourages entrepreneurship, and expands opportunities for all Americans,” said Congressman Bill Johnson. “Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and local communities in Eastern Ohio and across the country.”
In 2024, Howard Makler will serve as Chairman of ASB. Makler, a serial entrepreneur and small business owner, is currently the CEO of Innovation Refunds and has an extensive career spanning over 30 years.
“I’ve been committed to increasing awareness and access to federal incentives designed to support the domestic small business ecosystem – most recently through lobbying efforts to expand the pool of available credits, grants, and funding mechanisms for small businesses,” said Howard Makler, ASB Chairman and CEO of Innovation Refunds. “However, we know voices are louder together. Alongside our ASB members, we’ll be working with like-minded leaders in the public and private sectors to create a lasting national impact.”
As a new organization, ASB seeks to remind policymakers in Washington that we must prioritize this critical sector of the economy who provide innovation, jobs for hardworking Americans, and the everyday services we all rely on.
Key Objectives of Americans for Small Business include:
1. Advocacy and Policy Influence: ASB will work tirelessly to ensure that the unique needs and challenges of small businesses are understood and prioritized by policymakers at the federal level.
2. Access to Resources: ASB will serve as a hub for small businesses to access valuable resources, including educational materials, networking opportunities, and expert advice.
3. Fostering Growth and Innovation: ASB will actively support initiatives that encourage innovation, job creation, and sustainable growth within the small business community.
4. Community Building: ASB will facilitate connections among member businesses, fostering a sense of community and collaboration that will be instrumental in overcoming common challenges.
5. Education and Training: ASB will provide educational programs and training sessions designed to empower small business owners with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in a competitive market.
ASB invites small business owners, entrepreneurs, and advocates to join the movement and become part of a powerful network dedicated to the success of America’s small businesses. For more information, visit www.americansforsmallbusiness.org.
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