Small Business, Big Voice: A Workshop on Driving Policy ChangeTop 10 Questions Answered

Recently, the Connected Commerce Council (3C) hosted a webinar focused on empowering small businesses through advocacy, bringing together seasoned advocates to share their insights and experiences on navigating the complex world of public policy. 

Hundreds of small business leaders tuned in to learn how they can amplify their voices and influence legislation that could affect their bottom line. Many attendees asked us questions and expressed an interest in learning more about advocacy and the issues that affect digitally powered small businesses. 

In this blog post, we address the most frequently asked questions from the webinar. If you have additional questions or want to learn more about how to get involved, please don’t hesitate to contact us at info@connectedcouncil.org. 

Click here to watch the webinar replay and gain further insights from 3C leadership and our small business panelists. A big thank you to Michael Gaffney (from Seawicks Candle Co.), Andrea Ramker (from Rada Cutlery), and Philip Gomez (from Patty’s Cakes and Desserts) for joining the panel!

1. With the election coming up, what should small businesses pay attention to?

Elections provide more opportunities to talk with your state and federal elected officials in casual settings. As a small business leader, attending events, shaking hands, and introducing yourself is in your best interest. Building relationships is crucial. It’s an opportunity to address issues like privacy, inform candidates about the unique challenges small businesses face, and urge them to pay attention to key policies affecting small businesses.

For instance, after Michael Gaffney wrote to Senator Susan Collins, she visited his store in Maine and supported his business. Despite not always seeing eye to eye, Michael said it was great to build rapport with her, opening the door to further communication. 

2. Besides privacy, what other issues will be important over the next year at the federal level?

As AI becomes more accessible and affordable, small businesses are increasingly adopting AI tools to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and provide better customer service, enabling them to compete in a global digital economy. As policymakers consider how to regulate AI, it’s critical that they balance risk and opportunity to ensure small businesses can leverage AI’s potential without facing undue barriers to adoption. Overregulation could make AI technology more expensive and less accessible for small businesses, stifling innovation. 

Additionally, some lawmakers are trying to forcibly change the way American technology companies operate, attempting to push through misguided antitrust legislation while ignoring the fact that it will hurt small businesses. Legislation like the American Innovation and Choice Online Act (S. 2033) would force these platforms to break apart products and services small businesses like and use every day to grow their businesses. Policymakers should prioritize fostering competition and innovation by safeguarding small businesses’ ability to leverage the integrated tools and services provided by tech platforms. 

3. How can a national privacy law be structured to effectively support and benefit small businesses?

A national privacy law can be highly beneficial if it replaces the current patchwork of state laws and strikes a balance between protecting sensitive data and allowing small businesses to leverage data for growth. Small businesses need clear, uniform guidelines for collecting, processing, and securing user data. A national privacy law should simplify compliance, reduce the burden of managing multiple state regulations, and support the use of data-powered tools for online advertising and customer engagement. 

However, Congress’s proposed privacy bill (the American Privacy Rights Act – APRA) could pose significant challenges, preventing small businesses from using data-powered digital tools to effectively find, reach, and retain new and old customers. Additionally, the bill’s private right of action provision could expose small businesses to frivolous, costly lawsuits. To truly benefit small businesses, a national privacy law must ensure data privacy protections while allowing for the continued use of valuable data-driven tools and mitigating undue legal risks.  

4. Do you have any updates on when the federal government plans to release new regulations for AI?

Last year, the Biden Administration released an executive order that laid out the administration’s priorities and would regulate AI in some sectors, like national security and defense. And, while some states passed AI regulations this year (Colorado) and are currently considering AI legislation (California), the soonest Congress is likely to pass national AI regulations, even something as simple as requiring watermarks on AI-generated content, is next Spring.  

5. How can I find out if my member of Congress will be visiting my town during the August recess?

Social media is a great way to stay informed, so be sure to follow them on whatever platforms you are on. Members of Congress post their Town Hall meeting schedules on their official websites or within their districts. You can also call their congressional offices—most have three or four district offices, and their contact numbers are available online to schedule a meeting.

During campaign season, candidates frequently attend various community events. Any gathering that attracts a significant number of voting-age adults is likely to attract them, including fairs, festivals, and other community events. While these campaign stops may not be posted on congressional websites, they will be listed on campaign sites. Keeping an eye on these platforms will help you find these events quickly.

6. What advice would you give to someone who feels their voice isn’t being heard in policy discussions?

Persistence is key. Just as you didn’t give up when starting your business, continue to advocate for your interest. Keep reaching out and engaging with the right people. Elected officials are open to hearing about your business and its impact on the community. Additionally, our Small Business Advocacy Toolkit can equip you with helpful skills and resources to effectively amplify your voice and ensure it’s heard in policy discussions. 

7. What are the top issues you would bring up if you had the chance to speak with your elected officials right now?

Michael Gaffney, Andrea Ramker, and Philip Gomez all agree that elected officials are eager to listen and learn about your small business and hear how they can support your success. 

Andrea Ramker from Rada Cutlery would urge her elected officials to “understand how we’re using data today and how it is crucial for our operations.”

Philip Gomez from Patty’s Cakes and Dessert would emphasize, “Being a small business owner is incredibly challenging. Each year, we face new obstacles, and we need relief from these constant headwinds to stay efficient. Digital tools, including software and online resources, are essential for our productivity.”

Michael Gaffney from Seawicks Candles would invite his elected officials to “navigate these issues together. When small businesses thrive, the entire economy benefits. Supporting us is not just beneficial – it’s essential.” 

Engaging in discussions about data privacy, digital tools, and supportive legislation with your lawmakers can help them make well-informed decisions that address the real needs of small businesses.

8. What’s the most effective way to make a significant impact in the least amount of time? 

For small businesses looking to make a significant impact with limited time, leverage existing organizations like 3C to amplify your voice and streamline your advocacy efforts. Even adding your name to a letter to elected officials can make a difference. 

To maximize your impact efficiently, prioritize the key issues most important to your small business to ensure your efforts are impactful and focused. Leverage social media to engage with lawmakers and other stakeholders to share your concerns and connect with other small business advocates. 

 These approaches will allow you to advocate effectively and make a meaningful difference while managing your busy schedule. As always, please reach out to us at 3C, and we will help support your advocacy efforts to ensure your voice is heard. 

9. Thank you for hosting today’s webinar. Can we expect more similar events from 3C in the future?

Absolutely! We organize a variety of small business networking, advocacy, and educational workshops throughout the year. Be sure to watch for updates in our monthly 3C Insider newsletter. Our events are designed to offer valuable opportunities to connect, learn, and advocate for the issues that are most important to digitally powered small businesses. 

10. What’s the best way to stay informed about policy issues and legislation that could impact the digital tools I use for my small business? 

To stay informed about public policy issues and legislation affecting digital tools for your small business, sign up for our Public Policy Insider newsletter. This valuable resource provides updates on key topics such as data privacy, AI regulations, and other critical tech policy issues. By subscribing, you’ll receive the latest information and insight to help you navigate the evolving landscape of tech policy issues.