TECHNOLOGY IN A SMALL BUSINESS WORLD

National Federation of Independent Business

While small businesses make up more than 99 percent of all businesses in the United States, NFIB research indicates that just 57 percent of all small employers use the Internet for business-related activities. Even fewer are using high-speed Internet services, and only 35 percent have a website.

Congress and the Administration have been working on policies to make sure broadband services are affordable and accessible for everyone. While these discussions are taking place, NFIB is making sure that small business has a seat at the table. Technology will play a vital role in keeping small business entrepreneurs competitive so they can survive over the next century.

NFIB keeps lawmakers and regulators aware that small businesses are the drivers of our economy, and that any change in current policy or new policy should not stifle growth. However, technology issues are still relatively a new frontier for the government and for NFIB. If you are an NFIB member and have an interest in these issues, we need your help to develop positions and criteria for involvement.

NFIB has been watching the issues below to make sure government creates an atmosphere for economic growth rather than one that hinders business practices.

Cyber Security

A priority of the Bush administration is to create government and private-industry partnerships and to encourage vigilance by private citizens to reduce vulnerabilities in cyberspace.

Privacy

A balance must be reached so consumers are comfortable with the level of protection afforded their personal information, and small-business owners are not strapped with new regulations and liabilities.

Universal Service Fund

The Universal Service Fund is designed to ensure that all schools, classrooms, health-care providers and libraries have access to advanced telecommunications services. Expansion of the fund could over-burden small business.

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