According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses made up 99.3 percent of Arkansas businesses and employed more than 47 percent of employees in the state in 2018.
It’s clear that small businesses in Arkansas play an important role in our state’s economy. But when you look at national lobby spending, the top three biggest spenders are the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National Realtors Association, and the Open Policy Center.
With all of this big money being thrown around by national organizations, it might seem impossible for small business owners to keep track of what is going on at the Arkansas state capitol. In addition to keeping a business thriving with day-to-day operations, many small business owners simply don’t have the time to keep up with government legislation, committee meetings or any rule changes that could have an impact on their business.
Joining a trade or industry-specific association may be in the best interest for small business owners. Many of them require joining fees, but these organizations are geared to represent your and promote your interests.
The benefit of hiring a contract lobbyist in Arkansas to further protect your business is that contract lobbyists understand the complexity of the legislation process. With years of experience in politics, public policy, and maintaining key relationships, we are positioned to help our clients manage issues, and develop a long-term strategy.
You don’t have to spend millions of dollars to have a voice at the capitol. Hiring a team of professional lobbyists in Arkansas and engaging with your local officials can help ensure you don’t miss out on anything that could negatively impact your livelihood.