Business owners recognized during Small Business Week in Michigan

The Small Business Association of Michigan this week is honoring the state's hardworking small business owners, as it celebrates Small Business Week in Michigan.

"Small businesses are vested members of our communities and the largest job creators in our state," said SBAM President & CEO Brian Calley. "Small Business Week is a great opportunity for consumers to patronize small businesses and legislators to reject harmful legislative proposals. We cannot take small businesses for granted."

Small Business Week was proclaimed by President Joe Biden nationally, and in Michigan by Governor Gretchen Whitmer. The week celebrates the important role small business owners play in our economy, honoring the dedication and commitment of small business owners and entrepreneurs.

Worker shortages, inflation and a looming recession are all continuing threats on the horizon for entrepreneurs, and yet several new proposals exacerbate those risks. For example, stifling restrictions are being proposed on small businesses operating as independent contractors and onerous scheduling regulations would threaten the viability of hospitality, restaurant, and retail businesses.

In the last two years alone, more than 10 million Americans have formed small businesses, more than any other two-year period in history. From independent contractors to automotive suppliers, small businesses make up 99% of Michigan's businesses, with over 900,000 small businesses accounting for nearly half the state's workforce.

The Small Business Association of Michigan focuses solely on serving the needs of Michigan's small business community through advocacy, collaboration and buying power. Today it serves over 31,000 members in all 83 counties of Michigan.