Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact Nazirah Ahmad nazirah@emccommunications.com 704-290-6869 STATEMENT: Small business group urges President-elect Trump to focus on democratic stability, small business growth Statement by Shaundell Newsome, co-chair of Small Business for America’s Future and founder of Sumnu Marketing on the election of Donald Trump as the next president of the United States. Small Business for America’s Future co-chairs available for comment on impacts Washington, D.C., Nov. 6, 2024 – “Now that Donald Trump has been elected the next president of the United States, we encourage him to focus on the economic priorities that will help America's small businesses thrive and grow. “As small business owners who employ nearly half of all American workers, we know that economic prosperity depends on predictable business environments and strong democratic institutions. Eighty-nine percen t of small business owners believe a well-functioning democracy is very important to a strong small business economy. Our ability to create jobs, serve our communities, and drive innovation relies on stable conditions that allow us to focus on running our businesses. “America’s 33 million small businesses create two-thirds of new jobs and form the backbone of local economies across the nation. Main Street entrepreneurs need action on critical issues like making healthcare more affordable and accessible, creating a tax code that truly works for small businesses rather than just big corporations, and ensuring stable business conditions that allow for long-term planning and growth. "We sincerely hope our new leaders in Washington will make small business a priority and implement policies that ensure Main Street entrepreneurs can access capital, compete fairly with large corporations, and continue building strong local economies in communities across America.” WHO : Small Business for America’s Future co-chairs are available to discuss the impact of the next president on small business. Dr. Erika Gonzalez, M.D., CEO, President, & Co-Founder of South Texas Allergy and Asthma Medical Professionals (STAAMP) and STAAMP Clinical Research and Chair (San Antonio, T.X.) Shaundell Newsome, Founder, Sumnu Marketing and Chairman of the Board, Urban Chamber of Commerce (Las Vegas, N.V.) Walt Rowen, President of Susquehanna Glass Co. (Columbia, P.A.) Anne Zimmerman, CPA, Founder & Owner, Zimmerman & Co CPAs Inc. (Cincinnati, O.H.) WHEN : Immediate and ongoing. To request an interview with a Small Business for America’s Future co-chair contact Nazirah Ahmad at nazirah@emccommunications.com or 704-290-6869. ### About Small Business for America’s Future Small Business for America’s Future (formerly Businesses for Responsible Tax Reform) is a coalition of small business owners and leaders nationwide working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We’re committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize Main Street by advancing a just and equitable economic framework that works for small business owners, their employees and their communities. Visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org . Follow us on Twitter and Facebook . #SmallBizAF.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  Media Contact Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com (617) 875-6581 Small business group: Record SBA lending shows power of expanding capital access for Main Street Statement by Small Business for America’s Future Co-Chair Shaundell Newsome on new SBA lending data showing historic support for small businesses WASHINGTON, D.C., Oct. 24, 2024 —“The Small Business Administration’s record-breaking achievement of backing over 100,000 small business financings this year—the highest level in 15 years—demonstrates how expanding access to capital can drive small business growth and success. With $56 billion in total lending and new efforts to streamline federal contracting, these initiatives are opening doors for entrepreneurs to access the critical resources they need to start, grow and sustain their businesses. “The dramatic increase in lending to historically underserved communities is particularly encouraging, with loans to Black-owned businesses tripling and lending to Latino-owned and women-owned businesses more than doubling since 2020. When small businesses have access to affordable capital and contracting opportunities, they can invest in their operations, create jobs, and build wealth in communities across the country. “These impressive results show what’s possible when smart policies put the needs of small businesses first. We urge lawmakers to build on this momentum by continuing to support and strengthen programs that expand access to capital and opportunities for Main Street entrepreneurs. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and ensuring they have the resources to succeed is crucial for driving innovation, creating jobs and fostering economic growth in every community.” About Small Business for America’s Future Small Business for America’s Future is a national coalition of business owners and leaders working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We’re committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize Main Street by advancing a just and equitable economy that works for small business owners, their employees, and their communities.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com (617) 875-6581 Small business group: Inflation Reduction Act delivers healthcare cost relief, benefiting Main Street businesses Statement by Small Business for America’s Future Senior Advisor Rhett Buttle on the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act on prescription drug costs and healthcare accessibility ahead of Biden-Harris Administration event in New Hampshire WASHINGTON, D.C., October 22, 2024 — “For years, small business owners have grappled with rising healthcare and prescription drug costs, forcing difficult decisions about coverage. The Inflation Reduction Act is now addressing these long-standing issues, with concrete results that benefit not just small businesses, but the entire economy. “A new Department of Health and Human Services report shows that in just six months, nearly 1.5 million Medicare enrollees saved almost $1 billion on prescription drugs due to the IRA’s out-of-pocket cost cap. This cap is expected to exert downward pressure on overall drug prices, creating a ripple effect of cost savings across the healthcare system. “The IRA also strengthens the Affordable Care Act, leading to record-high health insurance coverage and average premium savings of $800 per year for millions. These policies, along with Medicare drug price negotiations and the $35 insulin cost cap, deliver tangible benefits to small business owners, their employees, and families nationwide. “By reducing healthcare burdens on small businesses, these smart policies free up resources for growth and job creation, driving economic prosperity. We urge lawmakers to continue finding ways to lower healthcare costs, recognizing that a healthy small business sector is crucial for a thriving American economy.” To request an interview with Small Business for America’s Future Senior Advisor Rhett Buttle, contact Janel Knight Trulear at (617) 875-6581 or janel@emccomunications.com. ### 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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com (617) 875-6581 Over 300 Small Business Leaders Sign Open Letter Urging Support for Election Integrity and American Democracy In a letter highlighted in the New York Times , small business owners across the country and in key battleground states call on elected officials and civic leaders to support fundamental principles of American democracy WASHINGTON D.C., Oct. 21, 2024 – More than 300 of the nation’s small business owners, organizations, and chambers of commerce are joining together to promote fair and secure elections and to urge leaders across the country to stand against the growing threat of political violence. Ahead of the November election, small business owners from key battleground states and across America have signed an open letter outlining nine critical principles that form the bedrock of election integrity and democratic trust. The signatories are not only committing to these principles themselves, but also urging elected officials, civic leaders, and business leaders to do the same. The New York Times highlighted the letter over the weekend. Eighty-nine percent of small business owners surveyed indicate that “a well-functioning democracy is very important to a strong small business economy,” according to research from Small Business for America’s Future. Small business owners are also expressing concern that vote counting could become partisan in some states where election laws have been changed to give local officials more authority over election certification. In Georgia, for instance, 77% of small business owners say they are concerned such changes would lead to disputes over election certification that result in political and economic instability. READ THE FULL LETTER HERE. Subrina Collier, Owner, BayHaven Restaurant Group, Charlotte, North Carolina, said: “North Carolina has been named the best state for business in the country, and it’s not hard to see why. Our state is a thriving hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. But our success isn’t guaranteed—it’s built on a foundation of democratic values that ensure transparency, stability, and fair competition. A well-functioning democracy is essential for economic growth and this election season, it’s clear that business leaders have a critical role to play in supporting free and fair elections.” Walt Rowen, President of Susquehanna Glass Co., Columbia, Pennsylvania Economic strength is intertwined with the strength of our democratic institutions. Fair elections aren’t just a cornerstone of our democracy—they're vital for creating the stable, predictable environment that allows businesses to thrive. When election integrity is undermined, it creates uncertainty that can ripple through our entire economy, affecting everything from consumer confidence to investment decisions. That’s why I believe it's crucial for business leaders to stand up for free and fair elections. By safeguarding our democratic processes, we're not only upholding our values, we're also protecting the foundation of our economic prosperity.” Gabe Hagan, Co-Owner, BrickRoad Coffee, Tempe, Arizona, said: “As business leaders, we’re not just part of our local economies; we’re trusted voices within our communities. We have a responsibility to use that trust to push back against misinformation and to speak up when our democracy is threatened. My business is dedicated to creating spaces that foster connection and honest dialogue, and that’s why I’m proud to join hundreds of other business owners across the country” Daniel Guerra, Altus, Inc, Madison, Wisconsin, said: “Fair and secure elections are the foundation upon which trust in our institutions is built, and without that trust, our economy suffers. Political violence and attacks on election integrity undermine the environment that small businesses need to thrive. By standing up for these principles, we are not only supporting democracy, but we are also investing in the long-term stability of our communities.” Katrina Golden, Owner, Lil Mama Sweets and Treats, Augusta, Georgia, said: “Election integrity is more than a political issue; it’s an economic one. Businesses need a reliable and predictable environment to operate effectively. When elections are chaotic or contested, it creates uncertainty that can hurt investments, disrupt markets, and erode consumer confidence. For a state like Georgia, which is on track to become one of the largest economies in the country, maintaining a stable democratic process is crucial. That’s why I’m alarmed by recent actions taken by the State Election Board, just weeks before a critical election, which have altered established election procedures. We need business leaders to stand up and speak out, and I’m glad to be doing that with hundreds of other business owners across the country in this letter.” To read the full letter and see the complete list of signatories, visit LINK. To request an interview with any of these business owners, contact Janel Knight Trulear at (617) 875-6581 or janel@emccommunications.com. ### 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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Nazirah Ahmad nazirah@emccommunications.com (704) 290-6869 Survey: Small business owners oppose Project 2025, believe it hurts them economically Small business owners oppose Project 2025 policies that would roll back healthcare protections, provide tax cuts for corporations, cut the SBA, and increase presidential power to fire federal employees; say Project 2025 policies would not benefit Main Street or the middle class WASHINGTON D.C. Oct. 2, 2024 —A new national survey conducted by Small Business for America's Future shows a majority of small business owners responding oppose Project 2025 saying it would negatively impact small business. They also oppose policy proposals that would weaken the Affordable Care Act and the Small Business Administration, and provide further tax breaks to the wealthy. “Project 2025 is bad policy that puts the needs of the wealthy ahead of Main Street businesses. It would harm small businesses' bottom lines by weakening policies that drive down health insurance and drug costs and by making cuts to the SBA, the government agency focused on serving their needs,” said Small Business for America’s Future Co-Chair Shaundell Newsome, Founder of Sumnu Marketing. “We’re witnessing record numbers of new small business starts, so now more than ever, we need policies that support the growth and sustainability of small businesses. Policies can and should be written to support the country’s small businesses who create jobs, drive economic activity, and provide valuable goods and services in communities across America. Clearly, small business owners think Project 2025 fails to do that.” Specifically, the survey shows: ● 58% of small business respondents oppose Project 2025 ● 74% of respondents believe Project 2025 would negatively impact small business ● 69% of small business owners oppose Project 2025's proposed changes to the Affordable Care Act ● 77% of small business owners oppose Project 2025 proposal to ban Medicare from negotiating for lower prescription drug costs and eliminating the $35 monthly cap on the price of insulin for seniors ● 60% oppose Project 2025 proposal to cut corporate taxes by $500 billion, which would mean the lowest corporate tax rate in over 80 years and 60% oppose changing tax brackets so the wealthy would pay a lower percentage in taxes than they do now ● 69% oppose expanding presidential authority by allowing the president to more easily fire federal employees ● Nearly 8 in 10 are concerned that Project 2025 suggests potential cuts to the Small Business Administration ● Small business owners named large corporations and the wealthy as the primary beneficiaries of Project 2025 “Project 2025 not only fails to address the needs of small businesses but actively works against their interests and those of their employees. It is a prime example of overlooking the backbone of our economy – small businesses,” said Newsome. “Small businesses are responsible for creating 70% of new jobs coming out of the pandemic and it’s crucial to remember that when small businesses thrive, local economies flourish, innovation accelerates, and communities grow. Any major economic policy must prioritize the hard working entrepreneurs of our country.” View the full survey report here . To schedule an interview with Small Business for America's Future Co-chair Shaundell Newsome, contact Nazirah Ahmad at nazirah@emccommunications.com or (704)290-6869. ### About Small Business for America's Future Small Business for America's Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders advocating for policy solutions that promote a thriving, inclusive economy. We work to ensure that lawmakers prioritize the needs of Main Street, advancing a just and equitable economic framework for small business owners, their employees, and their communities. For more information, visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org . Follow us on Twitter and Facebook. #SmallBizAF

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com (617) 875-6581 STATEMENT: New data showing strong ACA Marketplace enrollment demonstrates how smart healthcare reform unlocks the economic power of small businesses  Statement by Small Business for America’s Future Senior Advisor Rhett Buttle, on data released today by the U.S. Department of the Treasury showing 3.3 million small business owners and self-employed workers were covered by ACA Marketplaces in 2022 WASHINGTON D.C., Sept. 25, 2024 –“The new data showing 3.3 million small business owners and self-employed workers are covered by ACA Marketplaces—28% of all Marketplace enrollments in the 21-64 age range—demonstrates just how important affordable and reliable health insurance is to unleashing the economic power of Main Street. With nearly one in five small business owners and self-employed workers relying on ACA Marketplaces for coverage, it’s clear that the Affordable Care Act is playing a pivotal role in supporting the small business boom the country has been enjoying. “The economic impact of this healthcare access is profound. It’s a key factor in the historic small business boom we’re experiencing, with 19.4 million new business applications filed since 2021. Affordable healthcare allows entrepreneurs to take calculated risks to open their doors, innovate, and drive job creation without the fear of losing health coverage. Moreover, it levels the playing field, enabling small businesses to compete for quality employees—crucial to the success of any enterprise—with larger companies that can more easily afford comprehensive health plans. “While these enrollment figures are remarkable, there’s more work to be done. Measures strengthening the ACA in the Inflation Reduction Act such as expanded tax credits increasing the affordability of Marketplace plans have been crucial to coverage gains. But further improvements are needed to extend those tax credits or make them permanent. As we move forward, it’s essential that policymakers continue to prioritize small businesses’ needs in healthcare policy discussions. Expanding access to affordable healthcare will bolster small business bottom lines, drive entrepreneurship and job creation, and inject economic vitality into communities across the country. This, in turn, will strengthen our entire economy and help transform the historic entrepreneurial enthusiasm we are currently witnessing into lasting prosperity for all Americans.” To request an interview with Small Business for America’s Future Senior Adviser Rhett Buttle contact Janel Knight Trulear at (617) 875-6581 or janel@emccommunications.com. ### 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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com ( 6 17) 875-6581 STATEMENT: Small Business for America's Future Supports New Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax Guidance Guidance aimed at ensuring fair contribution to the economy and deficit reduction WASHINGTON – Today, Small Business for America's Future (SBAF) expressed support for guidance from the U.S. Department of the Treasury on the Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax. The new guidance provides clarity and addresses corporate tax practices in a way that promotes fairness and helps reduce the deficit. Anne Zimmerman, Co-Chair of Small Business for America's Future, issued the following statement: “The Treasury’s new guidance on the Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax is a welcome step towards creating a more equitable tax system. This guidance addresses corporate tax practices in a way that promotes fairness and helps reduce the deficit by ensuring large corporations pay their fair share. As small business owners, we welcome these efforts to level the playing field and close loopholes that have allowed some corporations to avoid their tax responsibilities. “This guidance sends an important signal as we approach a critical juncture in America’s tax policy. It demonstrates that meaningful reform is possible, laying the groundwork for the broader tax discussion we need. With key provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act set to expire in 2025, we have an important opportunity to build on these changes and create a tax code that truly works for small businesses. Our recent survey of over 1,100 small business owners shows that 82% believe now is the time for legislative leaders to reform the tax code to support small business growth and success. This upcoming tax debate is our chance to address the systemic issues in the tax code that have long disadvantaged small businesses. “We need a tax code that empowers entrepreneurs and corrects the imbalances of the current system, where 72% of small business owners believe large corporations are favored. By ensuring large corporations contribute their fair share, we can raise revenues for programs that support working Americans while creating a tax code that unleashes the power of small business entrepreneurs to create jobs and foster economic growth in communities across the country and create an economy that works for everyone.” To request an interview with Small Business for America’s Future Co-chair Anne Zimmerman contact Janel Knight Trulear at (617) 875-6581 or janel@emccommunications.com. ###  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.

WASHINGTON – Today, Small Business for America's Future (SBAF) expressed support for guidance from the U.S. Department of the Treasury on the Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax. The new guidance provides clarity and addresses corporate tax practices in a way that promotes fairness and helps reduce the deficit. Anne Zimmerman, Co-Chair of Small Business for America's Future, issued the following statement: “The Treasury’s new guidance on the Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax is a welcome step towards creating a more equitable tax system. This guidance addresses corporate tax practices in a way that promotes fairness and helps reduce the deficit by ensuring large corporations pay their fair share. As small business owners, we welcome these efforts to level the playing field and close loopholes that have allowed some corporations to avoid their tax responsibilities. “This guidance sends an important signal as we approach a critical juncture in America’s tax policy. It demonstrates that meaningful reform is possible, laying the groundwork for the broader tax discussion we need. With key provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act set to expire in 2025, we have an important opportunity to build on these changes and create a tax code that truly works for small businesses. Our recent survey of over 1,100 small business owners shows that 82% believe now is the time for legislative leaders to reform the tax code to support small business growth and success. This upcoming tax debate is our chance to address the systemic issues in the tax code that have long disadvantaged small businesses. “We need a tax code that empowers entrepreneurs and corrects the imbalances of the current system, where 72% of small business owners believe large corporations are favored. By ensuring large corporations contribute their fair share, we can raise revenues for programs that support working Americans while creating a tax code that unleashes the power of small business entrepreneurs to create jobs and foster economic growth in communities across the country and create an economy that works for everyone.” To request an interview with Small Business for America’s Future Co-chair Anne Zimmerman contact Janel Knight Trulear at (617) 875-6581 or janel@emccommunications.com . ### 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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Nazirah Ahmad nazirah@emccommunications.com (704) 290-6869 Small business group applauds President and Vice President’s announcement of measures to reduce cost of healthcare Statement by Small Business for America’s Future Senior Advisor Rhett Buttle, on President Biden’s new actions to negotiate Medicare prices Washington D.C. Aug. 15, 2024– “As the Inflation Reduction Act turns two this week, I was encouraged by President Biden’s announcement about the first-ever Medicare negotiations for the prices of 10 high-cost prescription drugs today, a move that will save Americans $7.5 billion offering welcome relief to entrepreneurs and marking a significant step toward reducing healthcare costs for businesses. “The Inflation Reduction Act gave Medicare the authority to negotiate lower drug prices, which marked another important step toward increased affordability that will have far-reaching impacts on the entire healthcare system. Today’s announcement of the negotiated prices for 10 key medications, set to take effect in 2026, is a clear demonstration of this policy in action. “The rising costs associated with healthcare have long hindered growth by cutting into small business owners’ bottom line, and hurt their ability to compete with larger companies to hire and retain quality talent. It is no surprise that 81% of small business owners support the Inflation Reduction Act’s measures to lower prescription drug prices. “By addressing high healthcare costs, we’re strengthening small businesses and the overall health of our national economy. I encourage lawmakers to prioritize more policies like the Inflation Reduction Act to sustain small business growth. ” Here’s what small business leaders are saying: “As a business owner, I understand the costs associated with running a business, especially seeing the rising costs of healthcare putting small businesses like mine at a disadvantage. The ability to offer comprehensive health benefits is crucial for small business owners to attract and retain top talent. I am encouraged by the announcement today by President Biden and Vice President Harris to address lowering costs. These measures give me hope for the future of healthcare costs and my business.” April Williams Owner and CEO, Kennedy Consulting Group Silver Spring, Maryland “As a small business owner, high prescription drug costs are hindering business growth. The Medicare negotiations announced today are a step in the right direction to cutting costs. They will benefit senior owners and employees while also leading to broader pricing reforms that help small business owners like myself.” Joseph Reddix President and CEO, The Reddix Group Hanover, Maryland 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. ### 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.