Small business owners unite for powerful S.C. Advocacy Day
May 4, 2023
SC Chamber Hosts Small Business Day at the State House
The South Carolina Chamber of Commerce (SC Chamber), the state’s unified voice for business, hosted its first Small Business Day at the State House, presented by BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina. The advocacy day was a free event to unite small business owners and supporters from across the state to ensure their voices are heard at the center of state policymaking.
“Small business owners have a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing our state, and it’s critical that their voices are heard in the policymaking process,” said Karen Jenkins, president and chief executive officer of KRJ Consulting and chair of the SC Chamber’s Small Business Committee. “It’s an honor to join together today with like-minded individuals who are committed to advocating for policies that will help our small businesses continue to grow and thrive.”
More than 200 attendees heard from various state leaders on the North Steps of the State House during the main program. Governor Henry McMaster presented a proclamation declaring May 3, 2023, ‘Small Business Day at the State House.’ S.C. Senate President Thomas Alexander and S.C. Speaker of the House of Representatives Murrell Smith presented Senate and House Resolutions recognizing May 3, 2023, as ‘Small Business Day at the State House.’
“Our small businesses are the backbone of our state and have helped lead South Carolina to unprecedented economic success,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “We must continue to dedicate ourselves to supporting our small business community so South Carolina can continue to thrive.”
“As a businessman, I support our small businesses across South Carolina, recognize their importance to our economy and celebrate our small business owners,” said President Alexander.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our state and I’m proud to support them as the Speaker of the South Carolina House,” said Speaker Smith. “With small businesses accounting for over 99% of all South Carolina businesses, it’s important to recognize that they are not only crucial to our economy of today, but also to our economy of tomorrow. I am eager to maintain our prosperous partnership as we ensure South Carolina remains the best place to live, work, and do business!”
Following the main program, attendees headed into the State House to connect with their local General Assembly Members. They also attended a panel with lawmakers who are also small business owners moderated by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB). The panel included Senator Mike Reichenbach (District 31 – Florence), Representative Shannon Erickson (District 124 – Beaufort), Representative Bart Blackwell (District 81 – Aiken) and Representative Roger Kirby (District 101 – Florence).
“Small businesses are the lifeblood of our state’s robust economy. As a small business owner and former chairman of the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce, I take particular interest in hearing from the small and independent business operators that employ hundreds of thousands of citizens all across South Carolina and help bolster our local communities,” said Senator Reichenbach. “Today’s Small Business Day at the State House is one of many important ways to ensure the voices of small business is heard, to advocate for issues that help spur job-creation, reduce burdensome red tape and equip the next generation of South Carolina’s workforce with the tools and education needed to thrive well into the future.”
Small Business Day at the State House has the support of multiple sponsors, including Colonial Life, Duke Energy, Meta and Wells Fargo.
About SC Chamber
The South Carolina Chamber of Commerce is the State’s leading voice for business with a vision to make South Carolina’s economy the most vibrant in the United States, creating opportunity and prosperity for all. A statewide organization that fights for pro-job and business policies at the state and federal level, it strives to promote free enterprise; define and advocate for the business agenda; convene, connect, and educate businesses; and partner with key allies. Our member insights shape the policies we write and the agenda we promote at the State House. Learn more at http://www.scchamber.net.
