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Dubuque Small Business Owner Recognized as 3C Congressional Champion

Oct. 15, 2021 (Washington, DC): Marc Pichik, owner of Smart Retract in Dubuque, was recognized by the Connected Commerce Council (3C) as a Congressional Champion for his advocacy on Capitol Hill. Marc met with U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley’s office to discuss how proposed laws to regulate digital platforms like Google and Facebook could hurt Iowa small businesses.

Digital platforms offer free and low-cost tools that help small businesses find customers, sell their products, and grow. Those same tools became a “digital safety net” during the pandemic when storefronts shuttered and e-commerce, online advertising and remote communications became even more important. As Congress considers several bills that would fundamentally change the way large technology companies operate, or even break up “Big Tech,” small business owners worry that this will hurt their bottom lines as online advertising, marketing, communications and other services become more expensive and less effective.

“It was a pleasure to participate in these meetings and share some information about my business, Smart Retract, and how important digital tools have been to our international growth. There are certainly issues with big tech which need to be addressed, but I would like to see Congress consider more of a precise surgical approach. Laws that are broader and more complex could make it harder for small businesses like mine to thrive,” said Pichik.

Marc was joined by 15 other 3C Congressional Champions, who met with more than 11 Members of Congress and staff this week to ensure that small businesses are heard by Congress.

“We are 18 months into a global pandemic that has sent shockwaves through the economy and especially through small businesses. Marc is doing a great service by reminding Congress that small businesses are the backbone of our economy and every issue, even technology issues, are small business issues,” added 3C Executive Director Rob Retzlaff.

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