Government's Role in SMB IT Stimulation

At last week’s jobs summit the President heard from business, labor and academic leaders as they brainstormed about getting America back to work. Over the past decade, small businesses have created between 60 to 80 percent of net new jobs, as well as countless technological innovations.  Yet the major role small businesses play in our economy and job creation was seemingly downplayed at the summit.

Next week in Washington, CompTIA’s Public Policy office will host several small, California tech companies who will be meeting with Administration and Congressional officials to talk about how we can get America working again.  CompTIA and our small business owner guests will explain that small IT companies have largely been sidelined from the $787 billion stimulus bill, due in part to the program’s size and the exigency of the situation.

Among the ideas the group plans to discuss are: the creation of a $10 billion “growth capital initiative,” better access to commercial capital opportunities, and greater, more equitable federal contracting opportunities for small “growth tech” companies.

Small IT businesses keep America competitive and provide high-paying, growth-oriented jobs for millions of U.S. citizens.  Tech jobs pay 90% more than the average U.S. salary, at $88,000.  Moreover, small, growth oriented tech companies are responsible for a disproportionate share of technological innovations that create new jobs and keep America strong and competitive.

The Administration and policymakers need to leverage government’s much larger role in the success and / or failure of all U.S. businesses by helping small IT companies navigate in these tough times.  Visit www.comptia.org/publicpolicy/us to learn more about the issue and how you can help!