Usually, small business owners from throughout the state gather in Springfield in March or April for NFIB Small Business Day at the Capitol.

Small Business Day gives owners a chance to learn more about what’s happening in the State Capitol and in Congress and to meet with legislators to talk about the issues that affect small businesses.

We couldn’t meet in person this spring because of the pandemic, but we gathered online for a Virtual Small Business Day.

The event began with a live presentation by NFIB President & CEO Brad Close. Joining the meeting from Washington, D.C., Close talked about the importance of reaching out to lawmakers at the state level.

“One of the things … that gives us an incredible amount of credibility in Springfield, Washington, all the other capitals is the fact that we are unique in that our members set our policy,” Close said. “We don’t sit around a table in Springfield or Washington and decide what’s good for small business and what isn’t. Our members tell us, and we go out and fight for what they want.”

Other speakers included state Rep. Keith Wheeler (District 50). NFIB State Director Mark Grant presented Wheeler with the prestigious Guardian of Small Business Award, which recognizes legislators for their unwavering support of small business.

If you have questions about issues affecting your small business, contact State Director Mark Grant at mark.grant@NFIB.org.