Great Lakes Wire

As the election year unfolds, reactions vary from excitement to apprehension. At the Small Business Association of Michigan (SBAM), the election process is approached with gravity, particularly by the Small Biz Political Action Committee (PAC) Board. Through a rigorous process, small business leaders pose challenging questions, scrutinize responses, review voting records, and endorse candidates who support the small business agenda in Lansing.

Collaborating closely with legislators committed to making Michigan an optimal environment for small businesses is crucial to SBAM's advocacy efforts. The organization emphasizes how its Small Biz PACs contribute and encourages participation in these efforts.

SBAM’s legislative priorities are determined by small business owners through the Legislative Action Council (LAC), which focuses on issues impacting Michigan’s small business community. The PACs support LAC's initiatives by identifying and funding candidates aligned with SBAM’s pro-small business stance.

The PACs engage in state-level political races across Michigan, supporting candidates who advocate for small businesses irrespective of party affiliation. Their campaign assistance includes direct contributions, media ad placements, and grassroots advocacy that have significantly influenced political outcomes.

"SBAM is the leading voice for small businesses in politics and policy," stated Kelli Saunders, SBAM Vice President of Policy & Engagement. This underscores the importance of investing in their PACs.

Since their inception, SBAM's Small Biz PACs have established themselves as influential entities in Lansing. Last cycle saw over $205,000 invested in pro-small business candidates; however, they aim to become the top statewide business-focused PAC.

The success rate has been notable: 82 percent of endorsed candidates won their elections last cycle—a commendable achievement among peer organizations.

Donor contributions empower the Small Biz PACs to make significant electoral decisions, bolstering SBAM's advocacy efforts and coalition leadership for supporting small business policies.

With an ambitious goal to raise $200,000 by June's end this year, SBAM seeks support from its members and stakeholders. More information can be found at www.sbam.org/PAC.

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