Small businesses are the backbone of the economy, but far too often, they’re left out of the conversations that shape policies, funding opportunities, and economic development. At Couvent Collective, we believe that it’s not enough to just build a business, you have to advocate for your business too.

Here’s how small businesses, especially those owned by women, reentry citizens, and underserved communities, can start making their voices heard in government:

Know Your Power - Small businesses employ nearly half of the U.S. workforce. That means you matter, your voice, your story, and your needs are essential to building strong communities. But your power doesn’t activate until it’s mobilized. The first step is recognizing that you belong in the room where decisions are made.

Build Relationships with Local Officials

Start local. Reach out to:

  • Your city council members
  • State representatives
  • Chambers of commerce
  • Small Business Advisory Committees

Let them know about your business, the work you're doing, and the challenges you face. Local representatives are more accessible than federal officials, and often, they're the gatekeepers for local funding, permits, and support.

💡 Pro Tip: Invite a local official to tour your business. Show them firsthand the impact you're making.

Join or Form a Small Business Coalition

There is power in numbers. Find or form a coalition of small business owners in your region or industry. Together, you can:

  • Draft letters to policymakers
  • Testify at public hearings
  • Host roundtable discussions
  • Create unified campaigns on issues like funding access, zoning, or minority certifications

Coalitions help amplify your voice and make it harder for decision-makers to ignore your needs.

Speak at Public Meetings and Town Halls

City councils, state boards, and local economic development offices often host public comment periods. Show up. Share your perspective. Let them know how policy decisions affect small business owners in real-time.

Even a 2-minute statement can:

  • Influence public opinion
  • Get media attention
  • Shift how officials think about their role in supporting your business

Use Your Platform

If you're active on social media or have a loyal customer base, use that platform to raise awareness about issues affecting your business. Encourage your followers to support local policies that uplift small businesses. Tag your local reps. Share your story.

At Couvent Collective, we’ve seen firsthand how storytelling can shape legislation, your business journey is a form of advocacy.

Advocate for Access and Equity

Many underserved businesses face systemic barriers to growth, whether that’s in getting funding, navigating permits, or accessing federal contracts. Advocate for:

  • More inclusive grant and loan programs
  • Equitable procurement opportunities
  • Streamlined certification processes for minority- and woman-owned businesses

Speak boldly, because policy shapes opportunity, and we deserve a seat at the table.

Stay Informed (and Vote Local)

Track bills and proposals that impact your industry or community. Sign up for newsletters from:

  • The Small Business Administration (SBA)
  • Your city or state business development office
  • Advocacy organizations like the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) or the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC)

And remember: local elections matter. Your mayor, governor, and city council shape economic development and small business policy. Make your vote count.