Advocacy
Why should you take an interest in public policy? Federal and local legislation has an impact on your bottom line and your ability to do business. Join NAWBO to take a stand on the top issues affecting women business owners across the country and in your home community.
Increased Federal Procurement for Women Business Owners
Currently, only three percent of federal contracts go to women-owned businesses. NAWBO is strongly advocating to raise that number to the five percent minimum established in 1994. Read more.
Access to Affordable Health Care
NAWBO supports affordable health insurance offerings for small businesses that would lower costs and promote multi-year predictability for women business owners and their employees. Get involved.
Fair and Equitable Tax Treatment for Small Businesses
Legislation should be enacted to ensure tax equity and basic fairness for all forms of small business organizations. The privilege of deducting legitimate business expenses should no longer be based upon the entity chosen to operate the business. Get more details.
Download: NAWBO's Public Policy Platform.
Transforming Public Policy Since 1975
NAWBO has focused on public policy issues of national and statewide interest impacting women entrepreneurs and small businesses since 1975. By attending White House events, providing Congressional testimony, holding advocacy conferences, developing reports, and educating members, NAWBO has consistently brought the concerns of women business owners to our lawmakers in Washington, D.C. Read more on the timeline of NAWBO's history.
In 1988, NAWBO played a key role in the passage of The Women's Business Ownership Act, also known as H.R. 5050. This landmark legislation allowed women to receive business loans without the co-signature of a male relative. H.R. 5050 also created the National Women's Business Council, a body of women entrepreneurs and women's organizations that provides counsel to the President and Congress. Join NAWBO in celebrating the 20th anniversary of H.R. 5050 in 2008.
Keeping You Informed with Advocacy Alerts
Sharing Valuable Resources
- 2008 Policy Issues Survey
- NAWBO Public Policy Days conference
- NAWBO Public Policy Forum
- NAWBO Political Action Committee
- NAWBO New York City's Public Policy Blog
Building Powerful Alliances
- Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP): sign up for WIPP's Instant Impact newsletter to receive advocacy alerts and upates in your e-mail inbox
- Coalition for Affordable Health Coverage