Small Business Owners: Covid-19 Vaccines are the Keys to Reopening Main Street

April 6, 2021

Small businesses fully reopening is critical to putting our economy on the path to recovery. The three Covid-19 vaccines authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will allow us to operate at increased capacity, reopen communities, and reduce staffing issues.

 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that between 70-85% of Americans need to receive the vaccine to achieve herd immunity and fully reopen the economy. As small business owners, we can play a critical role in making that happen as quickly as possible by championing the vaccine with our employees and in our community.

 

Small businesses are the backbone of the nation’s economy, and have large influence in America’s communities. We account for almost half of the country’s economic activity, two-thirds of new jobs, and employ more than half of all Americans. According to Gallup, small business is also the most trusted institution in the United States.

 

Vaccines are on the minds of most small employers and their employees according to a national survey conducted by Reimagine Main Street and its partners the U.S Black Chambers, Inc., the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and National ACE. Other business organizations like the National LGBT Chamber, Women Impacting Public Policy, and the National Association of Women Business Owners are stepping up to educate their members. Read more insights about small businesses owners’ perceptions about the Covid-19 vaccines here.


To get our businesses and communities up and running as quickly as possible, we have pledged to be SMALL BUSINESS VACCINE LEADERS with our employees and in our communities. As part of our pledge, we commit to taking actions such as creating a vaccine plan for our employees and ourselves and assisting with vaccine promotion and distribution in our communities. To support your efforts, Reimagine Main Street compiled vaccine resources for small business owners, such as tip sheets and tools. 


The sooner Main Street is able to fully reopen, the sooner our businesses and our economy will be on the road to recovery. We urge all small business owners to pledge to help bring us to that point. Become a Small Business Vaccine Leader today and sign the pledge.


 

Small Business Owners who have signed the pledge:


Patricia Bush, Sustainable Facilities Management Services, Ceo, Washington, Dc

Amy Baxter, Pain Care Labs (A Dba Of Mmj Labs), Ceo, Atlanta, Ga

Victoria Newman, Greenwich Education Group, Founder And President, Stamford, Ct

Willie Mallard, Gold Star Hvacr Llc, Owner, Madison, Wisconsin

Rachel-Yvonne Talton, Synergy, Ceo, Akron, Ohio

Temitope Toriola, Chaoticfox Llc, Owner, Phoenix, Az

Mark Olinger, "The Big Bear Group, Llc", Manager, Mount Vernon, Tx

Steven Held, Just Kids Early Childhood Learning Center, Executive Director, Middle Island, Ny

Jackie Hueftle, Kilter, Coo, Boulder, Co

B, Harvey Bconstrux, President/Ceo, Washington, Dc

Rama K Paruchuri, Datahash Llc, It, Ann Arbor, Michigan

Josh Lewin, Juliet + Company, Owner, Somerville, Ma

Elizabeth D Wilson, Georgia Micro Enterprise Network, Executive Director, Atlanta, Ga

Nancy Monacelli, Mama Monacelli's Kitchen, Owner, Dayton, Wa

Amanda Manigault, Amanda’s Art Of Cosmetology Institute, Ceo, Atlanta, Georgia

Mandy Sim, Jam Time, Business Owner, Maynard, Ma

Sheina Waddell, "Waddell Entertainment Consultants, Llc", President, Alexandria, Va

Uniquia Manigault, I Am Uniquia Co. - Uniquia’s Performing Arts Academy, Ceo, Union City, Georgia

Paula Fialkoff, E-Synergy Builders Llc, Ceo, North Las Vegas, Nevada

Michelle Moran, Litl Pond Hospitality Group, Owner, Blue Ridge, Georgia

Roderick Liptrot, "Alexander And Kennedy Financial Group, Llc", Managing Partner, Milton, Ga

Reginald "Swift, Ph.D", Rubix Ls, Founder & Ceo, Lawrence, Ma

Nicole Tribble, "Forever29, Llc", President, Fort Worth, Tx

Raquel Valdez Sanchez, Bcl Of Texas, Coo, Austin, Texas

Phillip Caldwell Ii, Resolute Educational Solutions, President, Detroit, Mi

Katharine Chestnut, Alkaloid Networks, Founder, Atlanta, Ga

Shantel Bacchus, Bacchus Insurance Group, Owner, Germantown, Wi

Rev Victor, Fakondo, Marie's Allied Health &Technical Institute, Executive Director, Somerset, New Jersey

Nikita Marshall, Kitas Crystal World, Owner, Geneva, Oh

Pamela Joiner, Municipal Market, Manager, Atlanta, Ga

Trevor Pearson, "Trevor Pearson Group, Inc.", President And Chief Executive Officer, Atlanta, Ga

Susan Glosby, Flex Office + Coworking, Founder, Springfield, Va

Quent Blodgett, Budget Blinds & Inspired Drapes Of Boise & Nampa, Owner, Meridian, Idaho

John Bridgeland, Civic, Founder And Ceo, Washington, Dc

Lee Rosenberg, Navigating Preparedness Associates, Managing Director, Lafayette, Ca

Alice Diamant, Fitwell, President & General Manager, Castroville, Tx

Harry Crawford, "Theophilus Operating Co., Llc", Managing Member, Houston, Tx

Lisa Smith, The Coaching Center For Mindtraining And Success, "Founder, Head Trainer And Coach", Virginia Beach, Virginia

Germano, Brandes, Acckr, Dr., Baltimore, Md

Martina Edwards, Access To Capital For Entrepreneurs, Chief Of Strategic Partnerships, Atlanta, Georgia

Kristine Brennan, "Brennan & Co, Llc", Owner, Queen Creek, Arizona

Shandra Stringer, Grassroots Consulting Inc, President, West Palm Beach, Florida

Lee Moultrie, "Lee H. Moultrie & Associates, Llc", Ceo, North Charleston, South Carolina

Tess Brunet, Lagniappe Records, Owner, Lafayette, Louisiana

Patricia Roberts, "Menlo Medical Mart, Inc.", President, Richmond, Ca

Mezaun Norman, Telefix Technologies Llc, Ceo/ Founder/Principal, Newark, Delaware

Deanne Giese, Meticulous Machining, Ceo, Wooster, Oh

Angela Davis, Park Place Premier Barber School, Owner, New Orleans, La

Marcia Duncan, "Ashmar International Technology, Inc", President, Lanhan, Md

Dene Peachey, Budget Blinds Cape Cod Co Owner, Mashpee, Massachusetts

Rachel Sigler, F45 Training East Nashville, Owner, Nashville, Tn

Linda Bessmer, "Muses3, Llc", "Managing Partner, President & Ceo", Houston, Tx

Stephen Yemm, Yemm & Hart Ltd, President, Marquand, Mo

Pamela Mcmichael, Trustworthy Staffing Solutions. Llc, President, Baltimore, Maryland

Birdie Curran, Feed The Birdies, Owner, Allen, Tx

Elise Jackson, Cruise Planners, Travel Specialist, Streamwood, Il

Adam Orman, L'oca D'oro, Co-Owner, Austin, Tx

David Changar, Royal Automation Supplies Corp., President, Bronx, New York

Tonya Gross, Shop Small Chicago, Operator, Chicago, Il

Stephanie Voss, Voss Violins Llc, President, Atlanta, Ga

Marsha Winstead, "Winrock Productions, Llc", Majority Member/Manager, Matthews, Nc

Sheila Boyington, Thinking Media - Learning Blade, Ceo, Chattanooga, Tn

Anita Brightman, A. Bright Idea Advertising And Pr, Ceo, Bel Air, Md

Rachel Schuster, Ewe & You Fiber Arts, Owner, Windsor, Ct

Annmarie O'shea, Amos & Advisors, President & Ceo, Maple Glen, Pennsylvania

Janelle Miley, Global Strategies Llc, Ceo, Fort Myers, Florida

Teresa Reis, Reis Services, Owner, Woburn, Ma

Angela Jenkins, "Spectrum Partners, Llc", Pres-Ceo, Cherry Hill, New Jersey

Christopher Centi, Centi Astro Space Activities, Ceo/Space Science Educator, Brocton, New York

Ny Whitaker, Project Nyne Production, Founder & Chief Strategist, New York, New York

Cindy Ramos -Davidson, El Paso Hispanic Chamber Of Commerce, Ceo, El Paso, Texas

Duncan Mcclellan, Duncan Mcclellan Gallery, Owner, St. Petersburg, Fl

Shayai Lucero, Earth & Sky Floral Designs, Owner And Floral Designer, Laguna, New Mexico

Reverend Sarah Garner, National Evangelist Ministries, President And Founder, Oakland, California

Prasad Somanna, "Innocom, Inc.", President, Ewing Township, Nj

Brandon Bentley Luxury Wash, Ceo, Austell, Georgia

Molly Bakewell Chamberlin, "Embassy Global, Llc", President & Principal Consultant, Hamburg, New York

Anthony Tripodo, East Coast Resources Llc, Managing Director, Miami Shores, Fl

Edmond Johnson, Premier Manufacturing, President, Longmont, Colorado

Terrence Payne, "Tmm Enterprises Group, Inc", Ceo, Los Angeles, Ca

Paul Musumba, Edu Prime Llc, Head Of Operations, Philadelphia, Pa

Mary-Ann Ortiz-Luis, Clarmil Manufacturing Corporation, President, Hayward, California

Lisa Apolinski, 3 Dog Write Inc., Ceo, Gilbert, Az

Beatriz Melo, "O Done, Llc (Dba) Proactive House", President & Founder, Long Island City, Ny

Paul Hollowell, Lux, Founder, Dallas, Tx

Conchie Fernández, Cf Creative, Managing Partner, Boca Raton, Florida

James Hock, The Home Collection - Charlotte's Boutique Furnished Residences, Ceo, Charlotte, Nc

Lenora Paige, Flower City Monitor Services Ltd., President, Rochester, New York

Chiling Tong, Asian/Pacific Islander American Chamber Of Commerce & Entrepreneurship (National Ace), President And Ceo, Washington, Dc

Joshua Velasco, Joshua A Velasco, Owner, Duluth, Mn

Jon Kim, Pour Taproom, Owner/Operator, Atlanta, Georgia

Iesha Morgan, Taxstars Llc, Owner, Dearborn, Mi

Cynthia D'angelo, Armonk Center For Dance, Artistic Director, Armonk, Ny

Esmaeil Noori, New Air Inc., Ceo, Santa Clarita, Ca

Wayne Smith, Waynesmith&Associates, President/Ceo, Springfield, New Jersey

Jessica Castner, Castner Incorporated, President And Principal, Grand Island, New York

Ron Schmidt, The Planning Group, Owner/Founder, Portland, Or

Karyn Tareen, Geocove, Ceo, Amherst, New York

Vara Suresh, My Maids, Director, Orange Park, Fl

Deborah Smook, Turbofil Packaging Machines, Owner, Mount Vernon, Ny

Michelle O'grady, Team Friday, Ceo, Los Angeles, Ca

Ken Joy, Era Queen City Realty, Manager, Scotch Plains, New Jersey

Lisa Tillman, Regional Interfaith Association (Rifa), Executive Director, Jackson, Tennessee

Robert Terrell, District Logistics Llc, President, Washington, Dc

Kahley Malloy, Cumberland Recycling, Owner / Principal, Franklin, Tn

Linda Ruggiero, Willett Vacuum Of Larchmont, Owner, Larchmont, Ny

Kim Alfonso, Results One Llc, Ceo, Washington, Dc

Kimberly King, Kimberly A King Dds, Owner, Angleton, Texas

Ryan Buchanan, Noni's Bar & Deli, General Manager, Atlanta, Georgia

Gregory Pereira, "First Steps Urban Outreach, Inc.", President, Bronx, New York

Carolyn Campbell, "Studio Ccla, Llc", Principal, Philadelphia, Pa

Gerald Seals, Baby B.A.C.K. Inc., President & Ceo, Syracuse, New York

Anja Bump, Twofold Inc., Founder & Ceo, Portland, Oregon

Tim Jones, Act, Gm, Los Angeles, Ca

Heidi Hill Drum, Tahoe Prosperity Center, Ceo, Incline Village, Nevada

Mary Webber, L&R Human Resource Consulting, Owner & Ceo, Bossier City, La

Gerald Lee, "Advanced Communications Concepts, Inc.", President & Ceo, Augusta, Georgia

Sung Hyong, Our Bar Atl, Co-Owner, Atlanta, Georgia

Marcharie Chambliss, Phoenix Project; Community Development Foundation. Inc., Board Member, Fayette, Ms

Paulette Mcclain, Madame Paulette's Regal Services Llc, Regal Coordinator Manager, Tampa, Fl

Iesha Morgan, Taxstars Llc, Owner, Dearborn, Mi

Rhonda Stark, Orangetheory Fitness, Owner, Akron, Ohio

Anne Gordon, Live Life Travel, "Founder, Leisure Travel Advisor", Saratoga Springs, New York

Anissa Hemingway, Professional Hospice And Palliative Care, Ceo, Snellville, Georgia

Sebastian Swae, Anoloriya Llc, Principal, Grand Haven, Mi

Emily Peck, Clay Art Center, Executive Director, Port Chester, Ny

Oluwaseun Kudaisi, Victory Products Llc, President, Winter Haven, Florida

Michele Calloway, Exit Realty Quality Solutions, Managing Broker /Owner, Marietta, Ga

Mark Burdette, "Photomarque, Llc", "Owner, Photographer", Colleyville, Tx

Anne Hubatch, Helioterra Wines, Owner/Winemaker, "Portland, Or", Or

Carolina De Martino, Northland Professional, Owner, Heber, Utah

Joshua Velasco, Joshua A Velasco, Owner, Duluth, Mn

Karrye Braxton, "Global Business Solutions, Inc.", President & Ceo, Atlant, Ga

Luis Delahoz, Shccnj, Chairman Board Of Directors, Edison, Edison

Susan Ringey, "Doggie Play Zone, Inc", Owner, Ida, Michigan

Chris Wood, Paige Technologies, President, Overland Park, Ks

Christopher Tarantino, Epicenter Innovation, Ceo, Denver, Colorado

Martha Ehlman, Tenfold Fair Trade Collection, President, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Heidi Pickman, Cameo- California Association For Micro Enterprise Opportunity, "Vp, Policy And Programs", San Francisco, Ca

Maria Whittingham, Maria Luisa, Owner, Nyack, Ny

Pamelya Herndon, Kwh Law Center For Social Justice & Change, Ceo, Albuquerque, Nm

Doris Moore Bailey, "The African American Chamber Of Commerce Polk County, Inc.", President, Lakeland, Florida

Lisa Elstun, Fashion Design Center Denver, Ceo/Founder, Denver, Co

Gregory Pereira, "First Steps Urban Outreach, Inc.", President, Bronx, New York

Kevin Moore, Kevin Moore Construction, Owner, Philadelphia, Pa

Brock Blake, Lendio, Co-Founder / Ceo, Lehi, Utah

Kevin Perry, "Kap Insurance Agency, Llc", President, Raleigh, Nc

Madonna Long, Summit Services & Supplies, Owner, Kemmerer, Wy

Maria Molina, Solano, National Latina Business Women Association-Ie, Executive Director, Rancho Cucamonga, California

Gloria Sevilla, E & G Interiors Corp, Owner, Valley Stream, Ny

Cathedral St. Augustine's, Cathedral St. Augustine's, Administration, Washington, District Of Columbia

Oliverkhiowboong Heng, Mastrade Biotechnology/Enterprise, "Dr Heng, Ipm Ag.", Johor, Johor

Philip Mitrovich, Ptk Restorations Llc, Owner, New York, Ny

Hendy Bynoe, Ready's Transportation Enterprise Llc, Owner Operator, Troy, Ny

Stephanie Voss, Voss Violins Llc, President, Atlanta, Ga

Amy Dagliano, Rowan Tree, Owner, Herndon, Virginia

Sarah Baldwin, Bella Luna Toys, Owner/President, Rockland, Me

Monica Stynchula, "Reunioncare, Inc.", Ceo, Clearwater, Fl

Catherine Pera, Bison Scaffold & Masons Supply, President, Buffalo, Ny

Carolyn Carlson, Data-Clear, President, Arlington, Va

Roosvelt Simil, "Familegacy Enterprise, Llc D/Ba H&R Block", Franchisee, Forest Park, Ga

Rachel Eisenfeld, Elden Street Tea Shop, Owner, Herndon, Va

Paula C Fiscal, San Francisco Investment Development, Owner/Ceo, San Francisco, Ca

Geraldine Keogh, The Dessert Ladies, Owner, Stirling, New Jersey

Julia Hays, Hays Innovations, Vp, Toledo, Oh

Rohit Anand, Vision Fulfill Digital Consulting Llc, Founder, Austin, Texas

Patricia Fisher, "Janus Software, Inc. (D/B/A Janus Associates)", President & Ceo, Stamford, Ct

Kristin Horowitz, The Pad Climbing, Ceo, San Luis Obispo, Ca

Shawn Lord, Skies The Limit Academy, Co-Owner, Sterlling, Va

Sally Cole, Falls Church Chamber Of Commerce, Executive Director, Falls Church, Va

Ray Rico, "Ray Rico Freelance, Llc", Owner, Memphis, Tn

Paula Cassell, Long & Foster Real Estate Inc., Realtor, Washington, Dc

Noreen Wise, Gallant Gold Media, "Founder, Ceo & Managing Director ", Fairfax, Virginia

William Stone, Atlas Cafe Inc, Owner, San Francisco, Ca

Deborah Leiva, Little Daydreamers Learning Center, Director, New York, New York

Dorene Rivera, Dcg Media Group Llc, Ceo, Guttenberg, New Jersey

Bennie Hayden, Marketingforgreen Llc, Founder, Atlanta, Ga

Earl Brown, Ocm Advisory Group Llc, Managing Member, Montclair, Nj

Debi Hearn, Vickers And White Law Pllc, Office Manager, Montgomery, Al

Patricia Barnette, Barnette Enterprise Inc., Ceo, Leesburg, Fl

Tj Espinoza, Espinoza, The Fresh Lime, Owner, College Place, Washington

Thomas Jones, Aerospace Museum Of California, Executive Director, Mcclellan, Ca

Elizabeth Boucher-Jordan, Paws First, Owner, Edison, Nj

Star Greenwood, "Mayu Silk Art, Llc", Owner, Huntington Beach, California

Shawn Parker, Tokyomoto, Manager, San Francisco, Ca

Douglas Lezameta, Fusion Latina Network, Ceo, Walnut Creek, Ca

Tiffany Turner, Adrift Hospitality, Ceo, Long Beach, Washington

Di Tran, Louisville Institute Of Technology, Ceo, Louisville, Ky

Jennifer Masuda, Yu-Ai Kai Japanese American Community Service Center, Executive Director, San Jose, Ca

Wendy Fok, "We-Designs, Llc", Managing Partner, New York, New York

Andy Au, Andy Au And You! Entertainment, Ceo - Chief Entertainment Officer, South Pasadena, California

John Patu, Samoana Media Llc, Founder, Kaneohe, Hawaii

Christen Montero, Marketing Consultancy Agency, Founder, Riverside, Ca

Cecil Jack, Jack-Novicio Inc, Ceo, Sacramento, Ca

Jacqueline Tomlinson, Jacky Tomlinson Financial Services Advisor, President, Malibu, Ca

Hsiu Chang, "Formosa Investments, Llc", Owner, Bedford, New Hampshire

Barika Porter, Successfulbloom Llc, Founder And Ceo, Ashburn, Va

Natalie Butts, The Yellow Canary, Owner, Jackson, Tennessee

Salathaniel Brown, Brown's Rims & Tires, Owner, Greensboro, Nc

Karen Eng, Csmi, Ceo/President, Schaumburg, Illinois

Jonathan Wu, Privacywall, Co-Founder And Ceo, San Juan, Puerto Rico

Jean Stuart, Good Steward Cleaning Services Llc, Owner, Philadelphia, Pa

Dara Bortman, Exact Solar, Sr Vp Marketing/Sales, Yardley, Pa

Thomas, Choi, Chinese Mutual Aid Association, Sbdc Manager, Chicago, Il

Bob Goodman, Robert Goodman Jewelers, Owner, Zionsville, In

Giesila Mcguire, Binyard Specialty Cleaning, Owner, Omaha, Ne

Bryan Ramos, Ramos Law Firm, Attorney, Atlanta, Ga

Ryan Difranco, Difranco's, Owner, Denver, Co

Derrick Butler, Krisspi Technologies Inc, Ceo, Concord, Ca

Rafael Roger, Business Initiative Corporation Of Ny, Executive Director, Bronx, New York

Debra Goodier, "Ware River Consulting, Llc", President & Ceo, Ware Neck, Va

Angelique Sieverson, Assisted Living Locators, Owner, Thousand Oaks, Ca

Chung Chiu, Rei Zhen, Owner, Aurora, Colorado

Angela Cabrera, "Alegnatechnologies, Inc.", Founder/Ceo, Kennesaw, Ga

Rokando Barrero, The Box Gallery, Hispanic Small Business Owner, West Palm Beach, Florida

Sharon Byrd, Byrd Consultants Llc, President And Ceo, O’fallon, Illinois

Wanda Abbott, Weddings-By-Wanda, Owner, Greensboro, North Carolina

Mark Quinlan, Clear Medicare Options, President, Manchester, Connecticut

Brian Carmichael, Carmichael Consulting Llc, Owner, Oviedo, Fl

Alison Helleberg, "United Manufacturers, Inc. Dba Faris Gourmet Popcorn & Treats", "Vice President, Business Development", Fond Du Lac, Wi

Daniel Polonia, Danpo_Mkg@Outlook.Com, Owner, Piscataway, Nj

Mary Jordan Johnson, Ntrigue Custom Creations, Owner, Chicago, Illinois

Arlanzzia Willingham, Preztige Medical Transportation, Owner And Manager, Sterling Heights, Mi

Wayne Cameron, White Pine Chamber Of Commerce, Executive Director, Ely, Nevada

Laura Gimpelson, Lgee, President, Nashville, Tn

Arturo C Guevara, Us Ttg Llc, Business Owner, Coral Gables, Fl

Christine Jahan, Christine Jahan Designs, Interior Designer, Glendora, Ca

John Flemal, Urban Lift Salon, Owner, Chicago, Il

Lisa Omboni, Mainsource Realty, Owner/Broker, Dobbs Ferry, Ny

Tamisha Good, Concierge Healthcare Training Services & Consultants, Owner, Brandon, Florida

Terry Ruiz, A&M Design Print, Owner, Corona, Ca

Kip Pagach, Fairwater Associates, Principal, Norfolk, Va

Reginald Huff, 4 Sho Mobile Drug Testing, Ceo, Atlanta, Georgia

Vanessa Sterling, Desoto Chamber Of Commerce, President, Desoto, Texas

Mathurada Rath, Dr.May's Thai Kitchen Llc, Owner, Athens, Oh

Dina Wagner, Michigan Hispanic Chamber Of Commerce, Membership And Program Director, Canton, Mi

Herman Ortiz, Great Care Company, Owner, Denver, Co

Anna Garzzia, Collision Course Auto Body Inc., President, Reseda, Ca

Shante Roddy, Intuitive Risk Management Intl, Ceo, Cleveland, Oh

Rehana Gaffar, Ana Management, President, West Palm Beach, Florida

Sean Harrington, Aging In My Place Mobility Services Llc, Member, Waterford, Mi

Willie Clayborn, Clayborn Tax & Multiservices, Owner, San Diego, Ca

Mike Castro, Maria's Health Shoppe (Wilmington), Co-Owner, Wilmington, North Carolina

Mel Blain, Posh Cycling And Fitness, Owner, College Park, Maryland

Mina Markovic, Mina Markovic Energy Consulting, Energy Consultant, Colebrook, Ct

Dianne Jaggon, Dianne A Jaggon Pa, Owner, Ronkonkoma, New York

Bradley, Norman, "Br2vets Design Consulting Firm, Llc", Ceo, Nampa, Idaho

Heather Bauer, Council On Aging Of Buncombe County, Executive Director, Asheville, Nc

Nicholas Sicora, Disaster And Disability Consultants Llc, Ceo, North Brunswick, New Jersey

Sharons Ramos, Sharonscleanigservice, President, Martinsville, Va

Griselda P Oaxaca, Dyslexia Institutes Of America, Owner, El Paso, Texas

Marie Robinson, Nercher Older Adult Community Resource, President, Brunswick, Tn

Victor Ng, Clear Skies Title, Partner, Millburn, New Jersey

Laura Martin, Progressive Leadership Alliance Of Nevada, Executive Director, Las Vegas, Nv

Kurt Daurizio, 1748 Bakehouse, Owner, Jacksonville, Fl

Eva Hardrick, "Northside Community Involvement, Inc.", Executive Director, Jacksonville, Florida

Cecilia Zavala, Be Social Productions, Event Producer, Los Angeles, Ca

Patrick Mulvaney, B&L, Owner, Sacramento, Sacramento

Isza Aich, Absolute Dentistry Ltd., Dentist, Chicago, Illinois

Ervan Miller, Freedom House Development Group, Founder, Pompano Beach, Florida

Stacy Johnston, The Studio Seal Beach, Owner, Seal Beach, Ca

Sylvia Tucker, Salon~Derful, Owner, Memphis, Tn

Sam Matthews, Shepherd's Center Of Greater Winston-Salem, Executive Director, Winston-Salem, N.C.

Lina Kennedy, Alexandria Professional, President, Williamsville, Ny

Cynthia Ishikawa, Masa Fujioka & Associates, Managing Partner, Aiea, Hawaii

Jeneane Chirico, Annadale Family Pharmacy Inc., Owner, Staten Island, Ny

Jason Waskey, Blue Crab Strategies, Ceo, Washington, Dc

Kimberly Melo, Kimelo's Lc, Owner, Goose Creek, Sc

Dr. Purnima Voria, National Us India Chamber Of Commerce, Founder And Ceo, Denver, Colorado

Monique Smaller, "Lagrande Josiane Usa, Llc ", Director, Roswell, Ga

Michelle Tomallo, Fit Technologies, Chief People Officer, Cleveland, Oh

Nikesha Tilton, Ptr Global Solutions, Owner, Montgomery, Al

Janice Johnson, "Ultimate Coastal And Urban Properties, L.L.C.", Owner/Managet, Brunswick, Ga

Patricia Rosario, Unique Models And Marketing, Founder, Bronx, New York

Master Sergeant (Ret), Baisden, Southern Crescent Veterans Services Inc, Vice President Of Operations, Stockbridge, Georgia

Arnettia Wyre, "Omniquest Youth Empowerment Initiative, Inc.", Founder And Ceo, Washington, Dc

Jessica Li, Gnomedica Llc, Co-Founder, Magnolia, Tx

Masaru Torito, Kokoro Restaurant, Owner, Denver, Co

Giovanna Piovanetti, Cofecc/Lendreams, Executive President, San Juan, Puerto Rico

Kelley Styring, Styring Vineyards Llc, Co-Owner, Newberg, Or

Diane Crosby, Diane Ladylaw’s Professional Office Services, Founder/President, Peoria, Arizona

Judith Miller, "Miller & Associates, Llc", Ceo, Rochester, Ny

Sandra Seltz, Consider It Done Housecleaning, Owner, Las Vegas, Nv

Qianna Smith Bruneteau, American Influencer Council, Founder, New York, New York

Sharon Opoola, Real Connections Llc, Cno, Chicago, Illinois

Stacey Brown, Signarama Silver Spring, President, Silver Spring, Md

Britt Stillwell, The Compliance Firm, President, Los Angeles, Ca

Rosie Riddick, "Rbm&M Trucking, Llc", Owner, Brockton, Ma

Tammy Surratt, Morris, Lexington Souvenir Shoppe, Owner, Lexington, Nc

Julia Hays, Hays Innovations, Vp, Toledo, Oh

Anel Colina, Juicy-O Restaurant, Owner, Naperville, Illinois

Traci Thompson, Dr. Traci’s House Inc, Ceo And President, Tampa, Florida

Ade Macgregor, Ade Macgregor & Associates Co., Principal, Virginia Beach, Va

Vivina Ma, Vsm Consulting, Ceo, Mt. Prospect, Illinois

Tori Ponder-Brown, The Pilates Room & Antigravity Studio, Managing Partner, Ithaca, Ny

Lamar Heystek, "Asian, Inc.", President, San Francisco, Ca

Casey Gierke, Albugierke Environmental Solutions, Ceo, Albuquerque, Nm

Aysha Cooper, Mckinley Alliance Group, Owner, Snellville, Ga

Noreen Wise, Gallant Gold Media, "Founder, Ceo & Managing Director ", Fairfax, Virginia

Isabel Orellana, Montessori Outlet, General Manager, Pomona, Ca

Kimberlee Spillers, Rural Community Solutions, Co-Owner, Atlantic, LA

Cyndi Jarvison, Sbdc At Unm Gallup, Director, Gallup, New Mexico

Erin Clarkson, Savannah First-Timer's Guide, Owner, Savannah, Georgia

Rachel Averbuck, Birkenstock Village, Owner, Santa Rosa, Ca

Marsha Mclean, Grandmas2.0, Founder/Ceo, Newport News, Virginia

Lori Johnson, A Caring Heart, Ceo, St. Ann, Missouri

Walter Ordonez, Jw Goodson Salon, Owner, Long Beach, California

Jon Henry, Jon Henry General Store Llc, Owner, New Market, Va

Mary Jo Majerus, Healing Touch Spa, Owner, Rochester, Mn

Tawana Drakes, Distinctive Designs, Owner, Dayton, Ohio

Michelle Thibodeaux, The Connection, Co-Owner, Chicago, Il

Stephanie Stephens, "Stephens Insurance Services, Llc", Owner, Walterboro, Sc

Ernest Toribio, E&J Beauty Salon Nail Spa Corp, Owner, Bronx, Ny

Anne Zimmerman, Zimmerman & Co Cpas Inc, President, Cincinnati, Oh

Patricia Capasso, Royalfamily Eatz, Owner, Hampton, Va

Nguyet Howard, Skillful Touch Massage, Licensed Massage Therapist, San Antonio, Texas

Rose Augustin, "Selest Health Center, Inc", President, Nmb, Fl

Dr. Deborah Sykes, Sykes Training Solutions, Director, Mcdonough, Ga

Lynn Altman, Brand Now, President, New York, Ny

Tawana Drakes, Distinctive Designs, Owner, Dayton, Ohio

Crystal Douglas, Crystal's Senior Services Llc, Founder / Owner / Ceo, San Bernardino, Ca

Tresa Chambers, "Tenth Muse Enterprises, Llc", Owner, Dallas, Tx

Annie Smith, Dillon County Boys And Girls Youth Center, Program Director, "Dillon, Sc 29536", South Carolina

Gabrielle Durana, Education Française Bay Area (Efba), Founder And Executive Director, San Francisco, Ca

Carla Nelson Chambers, "The Nelson Ideation Group, Llc", Managing Principal, Randalstown, Maryland

Tony Tovar, Sana Benefits, Head Of Community, Austin, Texas

Matt Mccolm, Suzie Health Solutions, Agent, Wenatchee, Wa

Carrie Davies, Geri Girl Bakery, Owner, Edinburgh, Indiana

Bradley Norman, "Br2vets Design Consulting Firm, Llc", Cea, Nampa, Idaho

Jonathan Cohen, Conrads College Gifts, President, Columbus, Oh

Michelle Taylor Frazier, "Multicultural Educational Programs, Inc.", Executive Director, Des Moines, Iowa

Melissa Graves, Funk Mechanical Llc, Managing Owner, Decatur, Ar

Judith Carter, Jac@Thewomenbrand.Com, Owner, Calumet City, Il

Sheila Rinehart, Larrys Appliance, Owner, Williamsburg, Va

Mike Englert, Eighty2degrees Llc, President, Washington, Dc

George Frost, Gw Frost & Associates, Owner & Principal Consultant, Renton, Wa

Carole Mapes, Flywheel Flowers, Owner, Brooks, Maine

Carmen Martinez, "The Local Development Corporation Of Crown Heights, Inc.", Outreach Coordinator, Brooklyn, New York

Deborah Rettino, Psalty's Kids Co, Co-Owner, Trabuco Canyon, Ca

Shimon Warden, Zebra Digital, Ceo, Albuquerque, Nm

Liz Yockel, The Fuzzy Bunny, Owner, Honeoye, Ny

Karen Mastroianni, Dimensions, President, Raleigh, North Carolina

Marie Quast, Jamie, Admin/Owner, Hackensack, New Jersey

Catherine Cudjoe, National Ghana Parade Council, President, Bronx, Ny

Darla Dukes-Johnson, Heavenly Hair, Owner, Hawthorne, California

Meg Donnelly, Nova Weekend Warriors, Owner | Licensed Massage Therapist, Herndon, Va

Emil Ranakusuma, Arcis Group, President/Ceo, Vienna, Va

Felicia Alvarez, Stat Training Solutions, Owner, Jacksonville, Fl

Miranda Scott, Cuddly Bear Child Development Center Llc, Owner, New Orleans, Louisiana

Patty Gentry-Young, Young Hair, Owner And Manager, Springfield, Oh

Vittoria Lattanzio, Lattanzio And De Ruvo Corp, President, Brooklyn, New York

Elizabeth Kimpel, Solo Caffe, Manager, Pensacola, Florida

Jenay Aiksnoras, Bliss Experiences Llc, Chief Experience Curator, Zephyr Cove, Nv

Kathea Edwards, Simmons Woodworks And More, Owner, Dublin, Ga

Michael Jonas, Rational Unicorn Legal Services, Owner + Principle Attorney, Portland, Oregon

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Shawn Parker, Tokyomoto, Manager, San Francisco, Ca

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Linh Ton, Ageless Skincare, Owner, San Jose, Ca

Tavia Anderson, Living Hope Second Chance Llc, Ceo, Bloomington, Mn

Sebrina Brown, Girlfriends Tea, Ceo, Virginia Beach, Va

Daniel Turner, "Tcg, Inc.", President, Washington, Dc

Tori Ponder-Brown, The Pilates Room & Antigravity Studio, Managing Partner, Ithaca, Ny

Michaella Olavarri, Micas Kitchen, Owner/Cook, Vashon, Wa

Dominic And Sauntasha, Austin, The Crusty Bark, Owners, Roanoke, Virginia

Ken Joy, Era Queen City Realty, Manager, Scotch Plains, New Jersey

Camelia Moss, Camelias Candles, Owner, Lebanon, Oregon

Emily Frank, "Career Catalyst, Llc", Owner, Denver, Co

Barbara Boris, Woodstock Yoga Center, Owner & Instructor, Woodstock, Ny

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Sheila Rinehart, Larrys Appliance, Owner, Williamsburg, Va

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Kim Stoot, What's Your Destination, Travel Designer, La Porte, Tx

Monica Love, Community Environmental Solutions, Ceo/Founder, Brooklyn Park, Mn

Katherine White, Badass Strategies, President, Annandale, Va

Isaac Kremer, Metuchen Downtown Alliance, Inc., Executive Director, Metuchen, NJ

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June 10, 2025
Reimagine Main Street Survey of 1,000 Small Businesses Reveals that 82% Think Adopting AI Is Essential to Stay Competitive In Today’s Business Environment SAN JOSE, Calif. and WASHINGTON, D.C. June 10, 2025 – Over 50% of small businesses are exploring AI implementation in their operations, according to a survey from Reimagine Main Street, a project of Public Private Strategies Institute in partnership with PayPal. The survey of nearly 1,000 small businesses with annual revenue between $25,000–$5,000,000, also found that 25% have already integrated AI into daily operations. These findings* reveal that the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) among small businesses has reached a tipping point—evolving from a question of “if” to “when.” “Small business owners are already putting AI to work,” said Tammy Halevy, Executive Director, Reimagine Main Street. “One in four are using it today, and more than half are exploring the possibilities of AI for their businesses. But these ‘Explorers’ want to see how AI advances their businesses. They need tools that are simple to use, secure, and built for how they actually run their businesses. And it matters — because when small businesses adopt AI in ways that work for them, the benefits will also accrue to local economies, supply chains, and the broader economy.” The survey identified three distinct segments of small businesses: “Active Users” who have already integrated AI into daily operations, “Explorers” who are testing or researching AI solutions but haven't fully committed, and “Non-Users,” those with no current plans to use AI. Advancing to Strategic Applications Having experienced AI’s early benefits, Active Users are now seeking more sophisticated capabilities that move beyond efficiency to provide strategic business advantages: Business Automation: More than three in four (77%) report that marketing and customer engagement represent uses where new AI solutions would have the greatest impact to their businesses, with 84% willing to automate the creation of marketing content and 59% willing to automate customer service inquiries. Financial Intelligence: 53% report AI-powered cash flow forecasting would solve a “critical pain point.” Predictive Revenue: 45% are extremely likely to adopt a tool that predicts revenue trends to help with staffing, inventory, and marketing decisions. Real-Time Customer Insights: 40% are extremely likely to adopt tools providing real-time trend analysis of customer buying behavior in order to recommend dynamic pricing and promotions. “This comprehensive survey clearly illustrates how AI is fundamentally changing small business operations,” said Rhett Buttle, President of Public Private Strategies Institute. “As businesses experience tangible benefits from initial applications, they are seeking increasingly sophisticated solutions that can transform their decision-making processes and competitive positioning. What we’re seeing is a strategic shift where small businesses recognize that AI isn’t just a nice-to-have tool for saving time—it's becoming essential for maintaining competitiveness in today’s market.” AI Is On The Verge of Widespread Small Business Adoption “When it’s accessible, understandable, and built for real-life use, AI can be a great equalizer for small businesses,” said Michelle Gill, General Manager, Small Business and Financial Services, PayPal . “At PayPal, we see the opportunity that AI presents to our merchants, specifically small businesses. We are developing AI-driven tools that act as smart partners to small businesses allowing them to reap the benefits of AI – from delivering personalized shopping experiences to order fulfillment to merchant discoverability – in a safe, simple and scalable way.” The largest segment—51% of surveyed businesses—are “Explorers” experimenting with AI tools but not yet fully committed. Despite interest and enthusiasm, these businesses face barriers: Security Concerns: 38% worry about data privacy and security Resource Constraints: 37% lack the time or resources to properly explore tools Uncertain Value: 34% don’t yet see a clear use case or return on investment The survey reveals these Explorers aren’t skeptical—they’re stuck. Explorers are hungry for AI solutions but need specific support to move forward, including proven business value (74% would adopt with clearer ROI evidence), user-friendly solutions (73% want easier-to-use AI tools), and practical training (ranked as the top support need across all segments). Together, Active Users and Explorers represent 76% of small businesses—indicating not resistance to AI adoption, but rather varying stages of engagement on a trajectory toward adoption. The question for most small businesses is no longer whether to adopt AI, but rather how quickly and in what ways. What's Driving the March to Adoption: Competitive Necessity: 66% of small business owners believe “adopting AI is essential for staying competitive,” with 78% of current users and 69% of explorers feeling pressure to adopt AI to keep up with competitors. Building Resilience Against Uncertainty: 63% of current users believe AI could help their businesses become more resilient during economic challenges. “As a small business owner, I’ve seen firsthand how AI has transformed my daily operations,” said Katrina Golden, Owner of Lil Mama's Sweets and Treats. “What used to take me hours now takes minutes, giving me back time to focus on growth strategies and customers. But it’s not just about efficiency, it’s about using this as a tool to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving marketplace.” The survey was fielded by Reimagine Main Street, a project of the nonprofit Public Private Strategies Institute, in partnership with 14 national business organizations and support from PayPal. Reimagine Main Street performs research to generate data-driven insights and regularly convenes small business leaders, investors, experts, and policymakers to address opportunities and barriers for small businesses. PayPal has collaborated with Reimagine Main Street since 2020 when the initiative launched as a response to the impact of COVID-19 on small businesses and the people they employ. Today, Reimagine Main Street and PayPal continue to partner to help small businesses navigate another wave of rapid change: AI. For more information about the survey and its findings, visit https://www.reimaginemainstreet.org/ai-and-small-business-survey. The following organizations partnered to field this survey: Carolina Martinez, CEO, CAMEO Network (California) : “Small business owners are innovators at heart — and this survey shows they’re eager to explore how AI can help them save time, forecast growth, and market to their audiences. But, it also highlights the need for more accessible tools and training to ensure every entrepreneur, no matter their background or resources, can benefit from this technology. At CAMEO, we’re committed to making sure small businesses aren’t left behind in the AI revolution.” Jill Houghton, President and CEO, Disability:IN: “ AI offers tremendous potential to break down barriers. The fact that these findings show business owners with disabilities are leading in AI adoption underscores the urgent need for policies and support systems that prioritize accessibility from the start. As AI reshapes the business landscape, we have a responsibility to ensure that innovation is inclusive — providing the tools, training, and infrastructure so every entrepreneur, including those with disabilities, can fully participate and thrive.” Jennifer Garcia, COO, Latino Business Action Network (LBAN): “Latino business owners have long demonstrated resilience and a forward-looking mindset, and their embrace of AI is a powerful reflection of that drive to innovate and grow. Our data shows that scaled Latino-owned companies are at the forefront of AI adoption. As this technology rapidly evolves, we must ensure all Latino entrepreneurs have access to the tools, training, and support they need—not just to adapt, but to lead in the age of AI.” Chiling Tong, President and CEO, National Asian Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneurship (National ACE): “This data affirms what we see every day: small business owners in the AAPI community are embracing new technologies like AI with enthusiasm and openness. Their leadership in adopting innovation is shaping the future of our economy.” Keith R. Hall, President and CEO, National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE): “AI is already changing the way America’s self-employed do business — especially when it comes to reaching customers and staying competitive. But for solopreneurs, it can’t just be about big promises. AI adoption has to be affordable, and it has to come with real-world training that fits their day-to-day reality. If we want these businesses to thrive, we need to make sure the self-employed aren’t left to figure it out on their own.” Todd McCracken, President and CEO, National Small Business Association (NSBA): “The fact that small business owners are eager to embrace AI shows their resilience and adaptability — but it also underscores a critical issue: if we don’t act now, the gap between those who can afford to invest in these technologies and those who can’t will only widen. For AI to truly benefit our economy, we need to ensure that small businesses, particularly the ones that drive local economies, aren’t left behind. Solutions that make training accessible, lower the cost of adoption, and level the playing field are essential if we want to see small businesses thrive in the digital age.” Jen Earle, CEO, National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO): “ Women-owned businesses are exploring AI solutions at impressive rates. However, despite similar adoption rates, women entrepreneurs continue to face barriers when it comes to tailored support and marketing. As we move forward, it's crucial that we not only foster more inclusive innovation but also ensure that women-owned businesses have equal access to the tools and resources to succeed in the digital economy.” Gil Pontes, Executive Director, NextGen Chamber of Commerce: “AI technology is reshaping the future of business, and the next generation of entrepreneurs is leading adoption. What does this mean? We must be focused on making sure that young, diverse, and forward-thinking business leaders have equitable access to AI education, resources, and opportunities — so they can compete, innovate, and thrive in a rapidly evolving economy.” Ying McGuire, President and CEO, National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC): “Empowering minority-owned businesses with access to advanced AI tools and training is essential for accelerating their growth and long-term success. As technology rapidly evolves, minority business enterprises must be equipped to adapt and compete. Adopting AI is not just about innovation but also about unlocking economic opportunity and enhancing business performance across industries." Ramiro A. Cavazos, President and CEO, United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC): “America’s small businesses are fueling our nation’s economic growth and prosperity. Access to emerging technologies, including AI, will ensure that momentum continues. This survey highlights that the Latino business community has shown strong openness to use AI, and we must expand career and technical education to equip our workforce with the skills needed in today’s evolving economy.” Pamela Prince-Eason, President and CEO, Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC): “ We believe that embracing and deploying AI tools is essential for women-owned businesses' continued growth and success. In today’s digital landscape, staying competitive means leveraging AI to drive innovation, improve sustainability, and maintain long-term market presence. Women entrepreneurs must have equitable access to the technology, training, and support they need to adapt and grow. We are committed to empowering women business owners with the cutting-edge tools and knowledge to thrive in this new era of opportunity.” Angela Dingle, CEO, Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP) : “AI is a game-changer for small businesses. Women entrepreneurs are already leaning in — but they’re not getting the support they need. This survey highlights that while men and women use AI at similar rates, women report a greater need for support, training, and resources — yet are half as likely to be directly marketed to by tech providers. In order to innovate and compete in the evolving AI economy, women entrepreneurs must have equal access to support and education. At WIPP, we will continue to advocate for fair access to these tools for all women entrepreneurs.” *Source: National survey of 947 small businesses fielded by Reimagine Main Street and 14 partners with support from PayPal, May 2025 About Reimagine Main Street Reimagine Main Street, a project of the Public Private Strategies Institute, is a multi-stakeholder, cross-sector initiative that brings small business leaders, investors, experts, and policymakers together with business owners and the people they employ. We engage diverse stakeholders and develop data-driven insights to shape and inform market opportunities and policy. For more information, please visit reimaginemainstreet.org About Public Private Strategies Institute The Public Private Strategies Institute (PPSI) is an independent research and education organization. PPSI engages in educational activities concerning the public and private sectors’ roles in advancing societal change. PPSI explores best practices and trends through research, publications, and educational events. Additionally, it produces educational and informational content that will educate public and private sector actors about their capacity to be agents of social change; and conduct research into the existing landscape of public and private social responsibility and the potential for the future. For more information, please visit ppsi.org . About PayPal PayPal has been revolutionizing commerce globally for more than 25 years. Creating innovative experiences that make moving money, selling, and shopping simple, personalized, and secure, PayPal empowers consumers and businesses in approximately 200 markets to join and thrive in the global economy. For more information, visit https://www.paypal.com , https://about.pypl.com/ and https://investor.pypl.com/ .
December 20, 2023
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today at an event in Wisconsin, President Biden will highlight the record 14.6 million new business applications filed to date during the Biden-Harris Administration. The United States is on track to have the three strongest years ever for new small businesses. The small business boom shows the opportunity the Investing in America agenda has for reaching communities across the country, including Black and Latino entrepreneurs and business leaders. Recent research from Reimagine Main Street found that contracting with the federal government and large corporations presents significant opportunities for diverse-owned and small businesses. Businesses are eager to learn more about opportunities from the Investing in America agenda and see promise in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Inflation Reduction Act, and the CHIPS and Science Act for economic growth and emerging new businesses. Rhett Buttle, President Of Public Private Strategies Institute & Founder of Public Private Strategies: “This boom in new business applications indicates the Investing in America agenda is working. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and federal investments like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS and Science Act, and Inflation Reduction Act have prioritized getting economic opportunities to entrepreneurs and business leaders across the country. Today’s announcement of the CHIPS Act’s Recompete Pilot Program also shows the promise of encouraging economic activity in geographically diverse and persistently distressed communities. Americans’ innovation and readiness to start new businesses is at an all-time high, and as we continue to connect federal investments to communities across the country, our economy will continue to prosper.” Tammy Halevy, Executive Director, Reimagine Main Street, a project of the Public Private Strategies Institute: “Our economy thrives when Americans from all backgrounds have opportunities to start successful businesses. The surge in applications for new businesses is a sign of optimism and a reflection of opportunities from the Investing in America agenda for entrepreneurs on Main Streets, MLK Boulevards, Cesar Chavez Ways and Chinatowns. Our research this year shows that many diverse businesses are already competing for and winning contracts in Investing in America sectors, and that the capacity is there for even more contracting. The intentional efforts of the Biden-Harris Administration and the business community has opened up new opportunities for diverse entrepreneurs — and they’re ready to seize them.” Ramiro A. Cavazos, President and CEO, United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce: “More than five million Hispanic-owned businesses are currently fueling the U.S. economy, so it is welcome news that the Investing in America agenda continues to impact our communities as they make meaningful economic contributions across the country. These much-needed new investments enable Latinos and Latinas to grow our already impressive $3.2 trillion GDP. As the U.S. economy continues to strengthen, we look forward to seeing these important opportunities benefit Hispanic entrepreneurs and businesses everywhere.” Ron Busby, President and CEO, the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.: “This new record number of Black business applications is a promising and hopeful sign for everyone. Black entrepreneurs and small-business owners make our economy vibrant and our communities thrive. Black communities across the nation are seeing real results from the opportunities created by the Investing in America agenda, and these emerging businesses will make our economy stronger. As we look toward 2024, this welcome news must redouble our commitment to ensuring all entrepreneurs and business owners have access to these important federal investments.” Ying McGuire, President and CEO, National Minority Supplier Development Council: “Diverse businesses are the backbone of our communities. It is exciting to see the growth and emergence of so many diverse suppliers thanks to the Investing in America agenda. The Biden-Harris Administration’s investments are creating a historic expansion of economic opportunity and prosperity for the Asian-Indian, Asian-Pacific, Black, Hispanic, and Native American businesses and entrepreneurs we serve. NMSDC-certified businesses are ready to compete for and win new contracts with both the government and corporate America and today’s news reflects their optimism for the future. Providing equitable opportunities to all business owners creates a strong and dynamic economy that benefits us all.” Marc H. Morial, President and CEO, National Urban League: "Black-owned small businesses are the lifeblood of their communities, but what they need are what we call the three C's – customers, contracts and capital. That's why the National Urban League proudly advocated for the landmark economic initiatives the Biden-Harris administration has spearheaded, including the American Rescue Plan, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act. These investments have the potential to dramatically advance economic justice in our nation." ###
July 5, 2023
Statement from Tammy Halevy, Executive Director of Reimagine Main Street, on the impact on small businesses of the Supreme Court’s decision to eliminate race-conscious admissions at higher education institutions and its impacts on small businesses: June 29, 2023 – "The Supreme Court’s decision striking down Affirmative Action is not only a decisive blow to diversity efforts in the realm of education, but reflects a broader strategy to dismantle hard-won progress in removing barriers to full participation by all in every aspect of American economic and civic life. This ruling and the broader sentiment it reflects puts small businesses, large corporations, and the broader economy at risk. "Access to economic opportunity on a level playing field is imperative. Challenges to policies and programs designed in response to documented disparities are increasingly appearing before the courts, from preferences in some COVID-related relief initiatives such as the Restaurant Recovery Act, to the injunction last month by a federal judge on the work of the Minority Business Development Agency in various states. "This ruling creates an imperative for creative problem-solving and new approaches that steer clear of explicit race-based criteria but address quantifiable barriers to competition and unlock the economic benefits of diversity." ###
By RMS . June 29, 2023
Statement from Tammy Halevy, Executive Director of Reimagine Main Street, on the impact on small businesses of the Supreme Court’s decision to eliminate race-conscious admissions at higher education institutions and its impacts on small businesses: June 29, 2023 – "The Supreme Court’s decision striking down Affirmative Action is not only a decisive blow to diversity efforts in the realm of education, but reflects a broader strategy to dismantle hard-won progress in removing barriers to full participation by all in every aspect of American economic and civic life. This ruling and the broader sentiment it reflects puts small businesses, large corporations, and the broader economy at risk. "Access to economic opportunity on a level playing field is imperative. Challenges to policies and programs designed in response to documented disparities are increasingly appearing before the courts, from preferences in some COVID-related relief initiatives such as the Restaurant Recovery Act, to the injunction last month by a federal judge on the work of the Minority Business Development Agency in various states. "This ruling creates an imperative for creative problem-solving and new approaches that steer clear of explicit race-based criteria but address quantifiable barriers to competition and unlock the economic benefits of diversity." ###
June 21, 2023
Public Private Strategies Institute and U.S. Department of Commerce Announce New Collaboration to Educate Business Owners on New Federal Economic Investments & Pilot Strategies to Accelerate “Good Jobs” Partnership Will Reach Hundreds of Thousands of Businesses, Inform and Connect Federal Investments & Pilot Programs to Strengthen Employers & Workers WASHINGTON, D.C. [June 21, 2023] – Today, Public Private Strategies Institute (PPSI) and the U.S. Department of Commerce announced a new collaboration to expand public awareness of the Department’s programs, priorities, and new initiatives. The historic economic investments made over the past two years include tens of billions of dollars in funding opportunities flowing through the Department of Commerce. These resources have the potential to transform communities and strengthen our economy, but only if business owners have access to information about new programs and are connected with the tools to take advantage of them. That’s why Public Private Strategies Institute and the Department of Commerce will jointly host a series of events that bring together senior administration officials, business leaders, nonprofit leaders, and small employers – these events will reach hundreds of thousands of business owners across the PPSI and Department of Commerce networks. In addition, Reimagine Main Street , a project of PPSI, and the Department of Commerce will engage small employers on job quality and design pilots to advance “Good Jobs.” Ultimately, the partnership seeks to accelerate small business awareness and adoption of Good Jobs Principles through the DOC’s Job Quality Toolkit . U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo: “Thanks to President Biden we have seen a historic small business boom over the past two years, and the Department of Commerce is committed to ensuring this boom translates into high-quality job opportunities for workers across the country. As the Department and entire Administration continue to make investments in America, including in our small businesses, we are taking steps like this collaboration and our Job Quality Toolkit to ensure small business owners have the tools and knowledge they need to create good jobs and grow economic opportunity in every community.” Rhett Buttle, President, Public Private Strategies Institute: “Major investments like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS & Science Act, and Inflation Reduction Act have enabled the Department of Commerce to rapidly develop and deploy new programs and funding opportunities for businesses across the country. For these opportunities to be implemented efficiently, effectively, and equitably, there needs to be dedicated and consistent outreach and education to help diverse constituencies of business owners access these generational investments. “That’s why PPSI is so excited about this partnership to engage our diverse network of hundreds of thousands of business owners to expand public awareness of these historic economic opportunities.” Tammy Halevy, Executive Director of Reimagine Main Street, a project of the Public Private Strategies Institute: “Reimagine Main Street looks forward to our partnership with the Department of Commerce to improve job quality among small employers. More than half of the nation’s 134 million employees work for firms with fewer than 100 employees. These firms and workers are the lifeblood of MLK Boulevards, Cesar Chavez Ways, Chinatowns, and Main Streets across the country. However, research shows these workers are less likely to be in ‘good jobs’ compared to workers employed by larger firms, and represent a significant share of low-wage workers. “Our collaboration with the Department of Commerce will leverage our network to engage diverse business owners across the country and pilot strategies to increase the quality of all jobs.” Earlier this year, Reimagine Main Street launched a project to improve job quality with support from The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Reimagine Main Street’s previous research on Good Jobs and small employers found that job quality is a significant driver of business performance. As a result, efforts to advance good jobs should accelerate growth and increase the profitability of small businesses, create incentives for already strong small companies to improve job quality, and stimulate innovations across markets and policy to make affordable benefits available at scale. This partnership between Reimagine Main Street and the Department of Commerce builds on the insights from that work. # # # About Public Private Strategies Institute The Public Private Strategies Institute (PPSI) is an independent research and education organization. PPSI engages in educational activities concerning the public and private sectors’ roles in advancing societal change. PPSI explores best practices and trends through research, publications, and educational events. Additionally, it produces educational and informational content that will educate public and private sector actors about their capacity to be agents of social change; and conduct research into the existing landscape of public and private social responsibility and the potential for the future. For more information, please visit ppsi.org . About Reimagine Main Street Reimagine Main Street , a project of the Public Private Strategies Institute, is a multi-stakeholder, cross-sector initiative that brings small business leaders, investors, experts, and policymakers together with business owners and the people they employ. We engage diverse stakeholders and develop data-driven insights to shape and inform market opportunities and policy. Together, we are working to ensure MLK Boulevards, Cesar Chavez Ways, Chinatowns, and Main Streets prosper, and that the benefits ripple across communities and throughout the economy. About the U.S. Department of Commerce The Department of Commerce’s mission is to create the conditions for economic growth and opportunity for all communities. Through its 13 bureaus, the Department works to drive U.S. economic competitiveness, strengthen domestic industry, and spur the growth of quality jobs in all communities across the country. The Department serves as the voice of business in the Federal Government, and at the same time, the Department touches and serves every American every day.
April 3, 2023
WASHINGTON, D.C. [April 3, 2023]– On March 30, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) finalized a new rule to increase data transparency in small business lending. The rule , section 1071 of the Dodd-Frank Act, was mandated by Congress and requires lenders to collect and report information about the small business applications they receive, including geographic and demographic data, lending decisions, and the price of credit. Tammy Halevy, Executive Director of Reimagine Main Street, released the following statement: “The rule finalized by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau will create much-needed transparency in small business lending. “Transparency in small business lending is critical for investors, policymakers, advocates, and all other market participants to track funds flows, assess lending patterns, and empower data-driven decision-making. Today, there is limited available data on credit access for entrepreneurs, and no comprehensive information available about small business lending. This rule provides for a near-complete view of the small business credit market by including a range of credit products from virtually all lenders. “This rule is an important step forward to ensure small businesses and the people they employ on MLK Boulevards, Cesar Chavez Ways, Chinatowns, and Main Streets can access credit to fuel their growth and participate in a prosperous economy.” ###
March 29, 2023
WASHINGTON, D.C. [March 29, 2023]– This week, the U.S. Small Business Administration hosted the second annual Women’s Business Summit. President Biden and U.S. Small Business Administrator Guzman kicked off the proceedings on Monday at the White House and announced new investments in women small business owners. In reaction to this week's news, Tammy Halevy, Executive Director of Reimagine Main Street, released the following statement: “ Women started nearly half of all new businesses in the United States in 2021. This embrace of the entrepreneurial spirit is an act of hope and a signal of opportunity in our economy. But women-owned businesses are generally undercapitalized and report they are less likely than their male peers to access financing. Women entrepreneurs receive less than 2 percent of all traditional venture capital dollars. Expanding access to capital and ensuring that capital flows to women-owned small businesses on MLK Boulevards, Cesar Chavez Ways, Chinatowns and Main Streets is critical to growing a strong and equitable economy. We are committed to working with partners at the Women’s Business Summit and across the country to expand access to capital flows for women business owners.” ###
March 1, 2023
WASHINGTON, D.C.– Today, President Biden officially nominated Deputy Labor Secretary Julie Su to be the next Secretary of Labor. Following today’s announcement, Tammy Halevy, Executive Director of Reimagine Main Street, released the following statement: “The past two years have been the strongest period of new business formation on record in the United States, with more than 10.5 million new applications filed. Latino and Black entrepreneurs are launching businesses at high rates. Twelve million jobs have been created, including over 800,000 manufacturing jobs. GDP is growing, and unemployment is at the lowest rate in nearly 50 years. “Deputy Secretary Su has played a critical role in fostering this economic expansion by supporting American workers. We are confident that as Labor Secretary, she will build upon these successes and continue to deliver for American workers and the economy. “As we evaluate the labor market and look for opportunities to grow a stronger and more equitable economy that includes MLK Boulevards, Cesar Chavez Ways, Chinatowns, and Main Streets, we must continue to advance good jobs, particularly among small employers. More than half of the nation’s 134 million employees work for firms with fewer than 100 employees, and low-income workers are more likely to be employed by small firms. As Reimagine Main Street and our partners work to identify scalable opportunities to improve job quality at small firms, we look forward to sharing findings and collaborating with the Department of Labor under the leadership of Julie Su." ###
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