The Small Business and Entrepreneurship Council as The Interest Group

Introduction to the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Council

If I had the money, time, and resources, the interest group that I would join would be the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Council. This type of interest group falls under the business and consumers category. This group is based out of Vienna, VA, which started in the year 1998. Their main focus is to protect small businesses as well as promote entrepreneurship. This group, in particular, highlights the importance of entrepreneurship as a means of creating jobs, encouraging innovation, and increasing growth in the economy. According to the official SBE Council website, it is viewed as an organization that “educate[s] elected officials, policymakers, business leaders, and the public about key policies that enable business start-up and growth” (SBE Council, 2023).

Support for Small Businesses and Entrepreneurship

I fully support this group’s ideas and values. I chose this specific interest group because I also support small businesses. I am majoring in business marketing and have a very special interest in entrepreneurship. Being born and raised in Silicon Valley, I have been fascinated with seeing great individuals turn their passions and ideas into businesses. This not only fulfills personal aspirations but also creates new and innovative opportunities for others. Several of my friends have projects and startups that they have been involved with as well. Observing their journeys has inspired me, and I have considered opening a small business in the near future.

Membership Levels and Benefits

There are different levels of membership in the SBE Council. It is free for small business advocates. For a business start-up, the fee is fifty dollars. Business Council Members have a membership type that costs one hundred dollars. To be a part of the entrepreneurs’ council, the cost is five hundred dollars. The CEO Council requires a contribution of one thousand dollars. Additionally, there is a one-year complimentary membership available. Joining this interest group offers several benefits, including healthcare reform and affordable access to healthcare.

Time Commitment and Member Involvement

Unfortunately, the official website does not specify the time commitments required from members. It will provide further detail once someone completes the signup process. It did not include how much time a member would have to devote, and I believe it is based on the level of membership. This flexibility allows members to tailor their involvement according to their personal schedules and commitments, which is advantageous for busy entrepreneurs.

Contributions and Achievements of the SBE Council

This interest group has many contributions and achievements. The SBE Council has partnered with the Alternative Small Business Lending Coalition. Their partnership with Lendio has provided lending resources for small business owners. This group was instrumental in the passing of the Internet Tax Freedom Bill. Furthermore, the SBE Council has ranked the 50 states in the “Small Business Policy Index 2016.” This group also helped lift the ban on crude oil exports, showcasing their influence on significant economic policies.

Additional Benefits and Resources

The website does not delve into specific detail about all its benefits. However, based on the SBE Council website, this group will include an e-newsletter that mentions “legislation, market trends, educational resources, how-to tips, and other FREE or low-cost training opportunities to help your firm grow and prosper in the competitive business environment” (SBE Council, 2023). Additionally, the website provides information about “cutting-edge and insightful analysis for our members, the media, and elected officials to help target audiences understand the impact of legislation, regulatory proposals, and the Administration’s policies on small business.” These resources are invaluable for entrepreneurs looking to navigate the complexities of business regulations and market dynamics.

The Purposive Nature of the SBE Council

Based on this interest group’s values and actions, it would fall under an interest group that is purposive. This is a purposive interest group because the members are very passionate about the cause. Members have the motivation to join because of the ethical beliefs or ideological principles that the interest group holds. The shared commitment to promoting small businesses and entrepreneurship creates a strong community dedicated to driving positive change in the economic landscape.

References

• SBE Council. (2023). About SBE Council. Retrieved from https://www.sbecouncil.org