Committee Activity

The Committee on Small Business will meet for a hearing titled, “Flipping the Switch on Rural Digital Entrepreneurship.” The hearing is scheduled to begin at 11:30 A.M. on Wednesday, March 13, 2019 in Room 2360 of the Rayburn House Office Building.

According to U.S. Census data, only 17 percent of businesses are located in rural areas despite 97 percent of the nation being classified as rural. Digital tools have changed the way many rural entrepreneurs are starting and growing their business. By embracing digital engagement, Main Street firms are experiencing greater sales both locally and globally. Yet, rural entrepreneurs still face challenges in fully utilizing digital technologies. The hearing will review the opportunities online technology holds and examine the barriers rural small businesses face in fully embracing it.

Mr. Dana F. Connors 
President & CEO
Maine State Chamber of Commerce
Augusta, ME
*Testifying on behalf of the Maine State Chamber
Testimony 

Mr. Bill Ingersoll   
Owner
Bikes, Trikes, and Quads   
Sloansville, NY
Testimony 

Ms. Afton Stout
Owner
My Dinosaur Dreams  
State Center, IA 
Testimony

Mr. Jake Ward
President
Connected Commerce Council 
Washington, DC
Testimony