FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact
Nazirah Ahmad
nazirah@emccommunications.com

(704) 290-6869

New survey shows small business owners fear government shutdown would negatively impact Main Street and derail economic gains

Statement by Small Business for America’s Future Senior Advisor Rhett Buttle, on the impact of a potential government shutdown on small businesses

Washington, D.C., September 14, 2023– “As Congress returns this week, we urge lawmakers to prioritize the needs of small businesses in budget negotiations and pass a spending plan on time. In fact, 78% of small business owners said they believe a government shutdown would negatively impact the economy, according to a new Small Business for America’s Future survey. 

“A government shutdown could have disastrous effects on our economy, which is showing signs of resilience with record low unemployment and inflation continuing to cool. Small business owners are optimistic about this trend with nearly 60% expressing confidence in the economy in our survey—but a shutdown threatens to reverse this momentum. This is a clear call to action for policymakers to act swiftly and decisively, as the uncertainty surrounding the economy is causing unnecessary stress for Main Street. 

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and Congress must listen to their concerns and act urgently. I implore lawmakers to come together to find a solution that safeguards the interests of small businesses. A budget agreement is urgently needed to avert any unnecessary disruptions and ensure that small businesses continue to flourish, contributing to the vitality of our nation’s economy.” 

Key findings from the survey include: 

• 78% small business owners surveyed believe a federal government shutdown would negatively impact small businesses
• Nearly 60% of the respondents are optimistic about the economy—but 78%  say a government shutdown would have a negative impact on the economy overall
• 7 in 10 respondents want lawmakers to prioritize specific small business support measures such as access to capital programs, tax credit incentives, training and development programs for skill enhancement, and opportunities for securing government contracts through set-aside programs during budget negotiations 
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Read the full survey here.

To request an interview with Small Business for America’s Future Senior Advisor Rhett Buttle contact Nazirah Ahmad at (704) 290-6869 or nazirah@emccommunications.com.  

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About Small Business for America’s Future
Small Business for America’s Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We’re committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize the nation’s 30 million small businesses to create an economy that works for them, their workers and their communities. Visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook. #SmallBizAF.