3C Celebrates Small Business Advocacy During National Small Business Week
WASHINGTON (May 4, 2026) — As the nation marks National Small Business Week, the Connected Commerce Council (3C) is celebrating the small business leaders who make their voices heard in policy debates across the country. With over 36 million small businesses operating in the U.S., representing 99% of all businesses, National Small Business Week is an important reminder that lawmakers must craft policies that support small business growth and success.
Small business leaders continue to speak out about critical policy issues affecting their companies—including artificial intelligence (AI) regulations, data privacy, digital advertising, and online marketplaces. Throughout the year, they maintain a presence in state capitals and Washington, D.C., meeting with lawmakers, testifying at hearings, and sharing how policy decisions affect their ability to grow, hire, and compete.
“National Small Business Week is a powerful reminder of the hard work and sacrifices behind starting, running, and growing a business,” said 3C Executive Director Rob Retzlaff. “Small business owners are managing tight margins, serving customers, learning new digital tools, and making decisions every day that keep the economy moving.”
Maintaining access to affordable, effective digital tools remains a top priority for small business owners. According to recent 3C research, over half (53%) of small business leaders say AI is critical to their success, and data-powered digital advertising helps businesses reach new customers, compete with larger companies, and grow.
“If National Small Business Week is about honoring small businesses, it should also be about listening to them,” said Retzlaff. “Small business owners do not need lawmakers guessing what will help or hurt them. They need a chance to explain how proposals around AI, privacy, advertising, and online marketplaces would show up in the day-to-day work of running their business.”
