Business Forward

Briefing: The most consequential economic risk of our lifetime

Business Forward — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 14:37:20 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward welcomed former U.S. Secretary of Treasury Robert Rubin and Ken Chenault, Chairman and Managing Director of General Catalyst and former Chairman and CEO of American Express, for a briefing on the damage the outcome of this election could do to America’s economy and our global competitiveness.

Briefing: Cost of Political Chaos

Business Forward — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 20:07:33 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward welcomed former U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker and Dr. Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Senior Associate Dean for Leadership Studies & Lester Crown Professor in the Practice of Management at the Yale School of Management, for a briefing on our economy and the rule of law, our safe harbor advantage, and the cost of losing it due to political chaos and a reckless presidency.

Briefing: Labor Shortages

Business Forward — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 17:58:26 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward welcomed officials from the U.S. Departments of Education and Labor for a conversation on current labor shortages, including school staffing shortages and apprenticeship programs.

Small Business Briefing: White House NEC on the debt ceiling deal

Business Forward — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 20:29:38 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward, Main Street Alliance, Public Private Strategies Institute, and the U.S. Black Chambers hosted a discussion with Daniel Hornung, Special Assistant to the President for Economic Policy at the National Economic Council (NEC) and Zach Butterworth, Former Director of Private Sector Engagement at the White House. In this conversation, we discussed the debt ceiling deal.

Briefing: Office of the First Lady and the U.S. Department of Education

Business Forward — Fri, 26 May 2023 20:07:46 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward welcomed officials from the Office of the First Lady and the U.S. Department of Education on workforce initiatives and how small business leaders can develop and hire local talent.

Briefing: Update on Debt Limit Negotiations with Former White House and Treasury Officials

Business Forward — Wed, 24 May 2023 14:16:22 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward welcomed Zach Butterworth, Former Director of Private Sector Engagement at the White House, Shuwanza Goff, Former Deputy Director of Legislative Affairs at the White House, and Ben Harris, Former Assistant Secretary of Economic Policy at the U.S. Department of Treasury for a briefing on current debt limit negotiations and why avoiding default is so important.

Former Treasury and White House officials on the risk of default

Business Forward — Thu, 18 May 2023 13:54:40 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward welcomed Zach Butterworth, Former Director of Private Sector Engagement at the White House, Shuwanza Goff, Former Deputy Director of Legislative Affairs at the White House, and Ben Harris, Former Assistant Secretary of Economic Policy at the U.S. Department of Treasury for a briefing on why the current debt limit negotiations and avoiding default are so important, and steps businesses can take to get involved.

Former Treasury and White House officials on the Debt Limit

Business Forward — Fri, 12 May 2023 15:04:48 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward welcomed Zach Butterworth, Former Director of Private Sector Engagement at the White House, Shuwanza Goff, Former Deputy Director of Legislative Affairs at the White House, and Ben Harris, Former Assistant Secretary of Economic Policy at the U.S. Department of Treasury for a briefing on why the current debt limit negotiations and avoiding default are so important, and steps businesses can take to get involved.

Briefing: Broadband maps and the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program

Business Forward — Thu, 05 Jan 2023 21:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward welcomed Sarah Morris, Senior Advisor at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), for a briefing on the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program, the newly announced broadband maps, upcoming NTIA priorities, and steps businesses can take to get involved.

Briefing: ACA Marketplace Open Enrollment with Secretary Becerra and Administrator Guzman

Business Forward — Thu, 08 Dec 2022 21:04:58 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward welcomed U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Xavier Becerra and Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman, head of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), for a briefing on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace Open Enrollment, Small Business Week of Action, and ways business leaders can get involved in ACA enrollment.

Briefing: U.S. Department of Education on the Digital Divide

Business Forward — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 15:59:00 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward hosted a discussion on digital equity in education. In this conversation with Business Forward Executive Director Liz Fairchild, officials from the U.S. Department of Education discussed the Department of Education’s Advancing Digital Equity for All program, White House initiatives for advancing digital equity, and the steps business leaders can take to help advocate in their communities.

Business Forward & Walton Family Foundation Briefing: Career Pathways and the Catalyze Challenge

Business Forward — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 14:26:23 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward and the Walton Family Foundation hosted a discussion on innovation in education and workforce development. In this conversation with Business Forward Executive Director Liz Fairchild, a panel of employers and leading innovators in education explored the role of education in connecting learners with in-demand skills, best practices for career-connected learning, and how business leaders can support career pathways in their own communities.

Briefing: National security expert Evan McMullin on climate action and severe weather in Utah

Business Forward — Mon, 17 Oct 2022 15:55:10 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward hosted a briefing with former CIA officer and national security advisor Evan McMullin for a discussion on climate action and severe weather in Utah. In his conversation with Business Forward Executive Director Liz Fairchild, McMullin answered tough questions on topics ranging from inflation, to rule of law, and how severe weather affects small businesses all over the country.

Briefing: White House officials on the Inflation Reduction Act, Healthcare Tax Credits, & Lowering Prescription Drug Costs

Business Forward — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 15:12:54 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward co-hosted a briefing with Small Business for America’s Future on the Inflation Reduction Act with Zach Butterworth, White House Director for Private Sector Engagement, and Aviva Aron-Dine, National Economic Council Deputy Director. In conversation with our Executive Director, Liz Fairchild, they answered questions on health insurance subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, prescription drug prices, and ways business leaders can get involved.

Briefing: U.S. Department of Education on Pathways to Success

Business Forward — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 18:30:17 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward hosted a briefing with Assistant Secretary Amy Loyd and Assistant Secretary Roberto Rodríguez from the U.S. Department of Education for a discussion on the Pathways to Success initiative. In their conversation with former Business Forward Executive Director Bert Kaufman, they answered tough questions on topics ranging from apprenticeships, to upskill programs, and how business leaders can support students with available educational and training opportunities.

Briefing: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid

Business Forward — Fri, 29 Jul 2022 21:08:17 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward hosted a briefing with Rachel Pryor, Counselor for Health Policy and Jesse Cross-Call, Deputy Director of External Affairs, with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for a discussion on the Affordable Care Act. In conversation with Business Forward President Jim Doyle, they answered tough questions on topics ranging from the current state of ACA, and how business leaders can advocate in their communities.

Public Policy Changes Small and Mid-Sized Businesses Should Know About

Business Forward — Mon, 18 Jul 2022 20:24:31 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward President Jim Doyle joined the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Chief Economist Ronnie Chatterji for a discussion on the state of the small business economy, public policy that can impact small and mid-sized businesses, and how small business owners can stay involved.

Briefing: National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) on the Bipartisan Innovation Act

Business Forward — Thu, 23 Jun 2022 18:42:43 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward hosted a briefing with Dr. Laurie Locascio, Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology and Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), for a discussion on the Bipartisan Innovation Act. In her conversation with Business Forward Executive Director Liz Fairchild, Dr. Locascio answered tough questions on topics ranging from supply chains to diversity and inclusion in our innovation environment, and how business leaders can support the BIA.

Briefing: Environmental and Financial Experts on Financial Supply Chains

Business Forward — Wed, 18 May 2022 20:26:14 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward hosted a briefing with environmental and financial experts for a discussion on financial supply chains. In their conversation with Business Forward Executive Director Liz Fairchild, these experts answered tough questions on a new report that provides analysis of the hidden climate impact of corporate finances, how the financial system is undermining the sustainability efforts of climate-conscious companies, and steps business leaders can take to help advocate for change.

Guests included James Vaccaro, Executive Director at the Climate Safe Lending Network (CSLN), Paul Moinester, Founder and Executive Director of The Outdoor Policy Outfit (TOPO), Peter Gill Case, Co-Chair of BankFWD, and Vanessa Fajans-Turner, Executive Director of BankFWD.

To learn more about the Carbon Bankroll report, please visit https://www.carbonbankroll.com/

Briefing: Treasury Department on the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI)

Business Forward — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 19:17:37 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward hosted a briefing with officials from the U.S. Department of Treasury for a discussion on the State Small Business Credit Initiative. In their conversation with former Business Forward Executive Director Bert Kaufman, Deputy Assistant Secretary Adair Morse and the Director of the Office of Federal Program Finance, Jeff Stout, answered tough questions on topics ranging from job creation to how business leaders can support the SSBCI.

Briefing: SBA Administrator on federal small business procurement reforms

Business Forward — Mon, 21 Mar 2022 21:25:17 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward hosted a briefing with Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman, head of the U.S. Small Business Administration and the voice for America’s 32.5 million small businesses in President Biden’s Cabinet, for a briefing on the Biden-Harris Administration’s reforms to the federal procurement process. Administrator Guzman answered tough questions on topics ranging from procurement opportunities, COVID relief, and leveling the playing field for business owners.

Briefing: White House Briefing on the Supreme Court Confirmation Process

Business Forward — Mon, 14 Mar 2022 21:15:08 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward hosted a briefing with White House Nomination Advisor for Engagement, Minyon Moore, White House Nomination Advisor for Communications, Ben LaBolt, and Special Assistant to the President and Senior Counsel, Paige Herwig for a discussion on the Supreme Court confirmation process. In their conversation, Moore, Herwig, and LaBolt answered tough questions on topics ranging from the confirmation process, Judge Jackson’s qualifications, and the steps business leaders can take.

Briefing: Advisors to the Departments of Commerce and Education on Building an Equitable Workforce

Business Forward — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 19:50:10 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward hosted a briefing with Senior Advisor to the Secretary, U.S. Department of Education, Lexi Barrett, and Acting Deputy Director of Policy to the Secretary, U.S. Department of Commerce, David Langdon, for a discussion on building an equitable workforce. In their conversation, Barrett and Langdon answered tough questions on topics ranging from skills gaps in the labor market, to education reform, and gender equity in the workplace.

Episode 110: Briefing: Council of Economic Advisers Member Jared Bernstein on the Economic Impacts of Build Back Better

Business Forward — Wed, 02 Feb 2022 16:37:12 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward hosted a briefing with Jared Bernstein, member of President Biden’s Council of Economic Advisers for a discussion on the economic impacts of Build Back Better and the Federal Reserve nominations. In his conversation with NewDEAL leader and Nevada State Treasurer Zach Conine, Bernstein answered tough questions on topics ranging from inflation, supply chains, to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Episode 109: Briefing: U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh on workforce development and Build Back Better

Business Forward — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 22:56:44 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward hosted a briefing with the U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh for a discussion on what workforce development and the labor components of Build Back Better means for small businesses. In his conversation with NewDEAL leader and Denver Colorado, Mayor Michael Hancock, Secretary Walsh answered tough questions on topics ranging from COVID relief to technological innovations and workforce recruitment.

Episode 108: Briefing: Former U.S. Secretary of Education John King on K-12 Education and Workforce Development

Business Forward — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 20:36:52 +0000

In this episode, Business Forward hosted a briefing with former U.S. Secretary of Education John King for a discussion on what K through 12 education and workforce development means for small businesses and local economies. After a brief introduction and opening remarks, Secretary King answered questions on topics ranging from pandemic learning loss to preparing students for success and the future of workforce development.

Resources mentioned in the briefing:

K12 Climate Action: https://www.k12climateaction.org/
A coalition organizing for environmental sustainability in the school system by shifting schools to clean energy, sustainable food use, and clean transportation within the next decade.

Podcast: Hiring for Skills and the Future of Work
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/businessfwd/episodes/2021-04-05T17_53_07-07_00
Byron Auguste, CEO and Co-founder of Opportunity@Work, and David Sutphen, Chief Strategy and Engagement Officer for 2U, joined us for a discussion of skills and opportunity gaps, the public and private sectors’ roles in the future of work, and how the small business community can connect with workforce talent.

Episode 107: Briefing: U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo on tax reform and the Build Back Better Act

Business Forward — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 19:04:42 +0000

On October 15th, Business Forward, Small Business for America's Future, American Sustainable Business Council, and the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce hosted a briefing with U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo for a discussion on the Build Back Better agenda. After a brief introduction and opening remarks, Secretary Raimondo answered questions on topics ranging from climate to workforce vaccination mandates.

Episode 106: Briefing: U.S. Secretary of Energy Granholm on Climate and the Build Back Better agenda

Business Forward — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 15:27:28 +0000

On September 30th, Business Forward hosted U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm for a briefing and Q&A moderated by Executive Director of Business Forward Liz Fairchild on the Build Back Better agenda and how bold climate action will help business leaders across the country. Secretary Granholm answered questions on topics ranging from reconciliation to clean energy to what tax reform means for small businesses. She also discussed the importance of business leader support and how they can get involved.

Episode 105: Media Training: How to Talk About Voting Rights

Business Forward — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 17:58:50 +0000

On September 23, Business Forward President Jim Doyle and Spitfire Strategies Director Annabelle Gardner hosted a media training on best practices when speaking to the media about voting rights and the Freedom to Vote Act. They also discussed how small businesses can help advocate for stronger voting reforms in their communities and best practices for writing an op-ed or letter to the editor.

Episode 104: Briefing: Biden Administration on Gun Violence Prevention

Business Forward — Mon, 13 Sep 2021 14:16:58 +0000

On September 9th, Business Forward hosted Special Assistant to the President for Criminal Justice and Guns Policy Chiraag Bains for a discussion on the Administration’s plan for gun violence prevention. After a brief introduction and opening remarks, Chiraag answered questions from business leaders across the country covering topics from gun violence as a public health issue, criminal justice reform and second chance hiring, and ways to engage their communities.

Episode 103: Briefing: U.S. Department of Commerce on Workforce Development

Business Forward — Mon, 02 Aug 2021 14:49:51 +0000

On July 29, Business Forward hosted Don Graves, Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce, for a briefing on workforce development and K-12 & adult skill building. In his conversation with NewDEAL leader and Montgomery, Alabama, Mayor Steven Reed, he answered questions from business leaders across the country on topics ranging from education to equity and workforce recruitment. They also discussed how business leaders can get involved with workforce development in their communities.

Episode 102: Briefing: Former IRS Commissioners on Shrinking the Tax Gap

Business Forward — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 20:18:40 +0000

On July 14, Business Forward hosted former IRS Commissioners Fred Goldberg Jr. and Charles Rossotti for a briefing and Q&A on modernizing the IRS and shrinking the tax gap. They answered questions from business leaders across the country on topics ranging from the unequal distribution of the tax gap to what an updated IRS would look like. They also discussed how business leaders can get involved with the proposals covered in the briefing.

Episode 101: Briefing: White House Council on Environmental Quality's Policy Priorities

Business Forward — Thu, 01 Jul 2021 16:32:46 +0000

On June 29, Business Forward hosted a briefing with Chair Brenda Mallory, and Director of Public Engagement David Kieve, both at the White House Council on Environmental Quality, for a discussion on the Administration’s plans for climate change and environmental justice.

After opening remarks and a brief Q&A with Chair Brenda Mallory, David Kieve answered additional questions from business leaders across the country, covering topics ranging from emerging clean energy technologies to emissions regulations.

Episode 100: Briefing: The Digital Divide, KUB Project, and the American Jobs Plan

Business Forward — Tue, 29 Jun 2021 15:54:27 +0000

On June 28, Business Forward hosted Amy Martin, President of Tennessee Cable & Broadband Association, Tom Schatz, President of Citizens Against Government Waste, Cassandra Denton, Owner of SanSational Creations, and State Representative Martin Daniels for a roundtable moderated by Jim Doyle, President of Business Forward, on the digital divide and Knoxville Utility Board proposal. Panelists discussed what a government-owned network would mean for business leaders, the importance of public-private collaboration, and how business leaders can get involved.

Briefing: Building our Energy Infrastructure Back Better

Business Forward — Thu, 17 Jun 2021 20:52:15 +0000

On June 16, Business Forward hosted U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm for a briefing and Q&A moderated by NewDEAL leader, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego on the American Jobs Plan and building our energy infrastructure back better. Secretary Granholm answered questions from business leaders across the country on topics ranging from the security and resilience of our energy system to American competitiveness in the clean energy sector. She also discussed the importance of public-private collaboration and how business leaders can get involved.

Briefing: IRS modernization and tax compliance provisions of the American Families Plan

Business Forward — Wed, 09 Jun 2021 20:39:29 +0000

On June 8th, Business Forward hosted a discussion with Natasha Sarin, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Economic Policy at the U.S. Department of Treasury, and Zach Butterworth, Director of Private Sector Engagement at the White House Office of Public Engagement.

After opening remarks from Butterworth on the American Families Plan, Sarin discussed the IRS and tax provisions of the Plan -- including its efforts to revitalize IRS enforcement and technology, how to increase fairness in the tax system, and the steps business leaders can take to help advocate in their communities.

Media Training: How to Talk About the For the People Act

Business Forward — Tue, 08 Jun 2021 02:52:20 +0000

On June 3, Business Forward President Jim Doyle and Spitfire Strategies Director Annabelle Gardner hosted a media training on best practices when speaking to the media about the anti-corruption and voting rights provisions of the For the People Act. They also discussed how small businesses can help advocate for stronger voting reforms in their communities and best practices for writing an op-ed or letter to the editor.

Briefing: The Power of Clean Slate Policies for Economic Development

Business Forward — Fri, 28 May 2021 18:13:32 +0000

On May 27, Business Forward hosted a discussion between Managing Director of the Clean Slate Initiative Sheena Meade and Director of Justice Reform and Racial Equity Policy at Microsoft Danyelle Soloman on the power of enacting clean slate policies for economic and workforce development. Chiraag Bains, Special Assistant to the President for Criminal Justice & Guns Policy at the Domestic Policy Council at the White House joined for introductory remarks.

Training: How to Talk to Reporters About Gun Safety

Business Forward — Fri, 21 May 2021 21:35:54 +0000

On May 20, Jim Doyle hosted a media training on best practices when speaking to the media about gun safety and strengthening background checks. He also discussed how small businesses can help advocate for stronger gun safety legislation in their communities and best practices for writing an op-ed or letter to the editor.

If you want to sign on to our statement calling for the Senate to pass bipartisan federal legislation to strengthen background checks, you can add your name here: https://www.businessforward.org/bipartisan-background-check-legislation/

Business Forward also released a media training manual on gun safety and background checks that you can access here: https://www.businessforward.org/press/new-training-manual-on-gun-safety/

Briefing: The American Jobs Plan and the American Families Plan

Business Forward — Wed, 19 May 2021 18:34:53 +0000

On May 14, Business Forward and Small Business for America’s future hosted Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman of the U.S. Small Business Administration, and Bharat Ramamurti, Deputy Director of the National Economic Council for a briefing and Q&A on the American Jobs Plan and American Families Plan. They answered questions from business leaders across the country on topics from procurement opportunities in infrastructure investment to making the tax code fair for small businesses.

Briefing: Passing Federal Background Check Legislation

Business Forward — Fri, 14 May 2021 17:37:06 +0000

On May 12, Business Forward hosted a briefing and Q&A on passing federal background check legislation for all gun sales with Sarah Trumble, Senior Director of Federal Affairs at Everytown for Gun Safety.

Trumble outlined what federal background check legislation for gun sales would do, how it helps, its chances of passing in Congress, and the steps business leaders can take to help advocate in their communities.

Briefing: The Cost of Restrictive Voting Laws

Business Forward — Fri, 23 Apr 2021 20:36:38 +0000

On April 22, Business Forward hosted a briefing and Q&A on the cost of restrictive voting laws with Charles Phillips, Managing Partner and Co-Founder at RECOGNIZE, and David Clunie, Executive Director of the Black Economic Alliance.

Phillips and Clunie answered questions about the role of business in the voting rights debate, recent state-level efforts to pass anti-voter legislation, and discussed their observations while recruiting executives to speak up on this issue. They also outlined how business leaders can advocate in their communities.

Briefing: Building Our Infrastructure Back Better

Business Forward — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 16:37:50 +0000

On April 21, Business Forward, Small Business for America’s Future, and other partners hosted a briefing and Q&A on building our infrastructure back better with Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg.

Secretary Buttigieg and NewDEAL Leader Mayor Woodfin of Birmingham, Alabama discussed integrating racial and regional equity into the American Jobs Plan rollout, creating good jobs, and providing opportunities for small businesses to get involved in infrastructure projects.

This briefing is the first in our Build Back Better briefing series. This series will cover the Biden administration’s policy priorities across a range of topics, including those covered by the American Jobs Plan and the recently passed American Rescue Plan.

Briefing: White House on the American Jobs Plan

Business Forward — Wed, 14 Apr 2021 21:13:07 +0000

On April 13, Business Forward and Small Business for America’s future hosted a briefing and Q&A on the American Jobs Plan with Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman of the U.S. Small Business Administration, Bharat Ramamurti, Deputy Director of the National Economic Council, Joelle Gamble, Special Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, and Zach Butterworth, Director of Private Sector Engagement for the White House. It covered topics ranging from opportunities for small businesses in federal contracting to the ways in which the plan will help the U.S. stay globally competitive.

This briefing is part of a series of briefings Business Forward and our partner Small Business for America's Future will conduct with Biden officials on critical economic, climate, and health care issues.

Hiring for Skills and the Future of Work

Business Forward — Tue, 06 Apr 2021 00:53:07 +0000

Byron Auguste, CEO and Co-founder of Opportunity@Work, and David Sutphen, Chief Strategy and Engagement Officer for 2U, joined us for a discussion of skills and opportunity gaps, the public and private sectors’ roles in the future of work, and how the small business community can connect with workforce talent.

Briefing: Manufacturing in the Heartland

Business Forward — Mon, 05 Apr 2021 20:11:18 +0000

On April 1, Business Forward hosted a briefing on manufacturing in the Heartland. White House Associate Director of Public Engagement Will McIntee joined for introductory remarks on how the Biden Administration’s American Jobs Plan will impact the Heartland. After these remarks, Mayor Nan Whaley of Dayton, Ohio moderated a discussion between CEO of Heartland Forward Ross DeVol and CEO of Heath-Newark-Licking County Port Authority Rick Platt on manufacturing in the Heartland, answering questions from business leaders on entrepreneurship, reshoring jobs, and how climate concerns affect electric vehicle suppliers and the manufacturing sector, overall.

01:12 - Will McIntee's remarks
13:47 - Ross DeVol's opening remarks
18:22 - Rick Platt's opening remarks
20:35 - Q&A moderated by Mayor Nan Whaley

Funding the Clean Energy Transition

Business Forward — Thu, 25 Mar 2021 16:23:02 +0000

On March 24, Business Forward welcomed New York business leaders Daphany Rose Sanchez, Executive Director and Founder of Kinetic Communities Consulting, and Susannah Bradley, Marketing Director for SunCommon, to discuss recent climate legislation and funding a just clean energy transition.

During the conversation, our guests discussed New York’s climate leadership and the Climate and Community Investment Act. They addressed the impact of a clean energy transition on local jobs, investment, and businesses, and how small businesses can get engaged.

Interested in telling Albany to fund the clean energy transition? Sign on to our business leader statement: https://secure.everyaction.com/9ZUL8_vIkUK7cFqS9hlo7g2.

Resources

NY Renews: https://www.nyrenews.org/

Climate Works For All: https://alignny.org/campaign/climate-works-for-all/

Briefing: Voting Rights and the For the People Act

Business Forward — Thu, 18 Mar 2021 23:13:13 +0000

On March 18, Business Forward welcomed Congresswoman Suzan DelBene, who represents Washington’s first district, for a briefing on H.R. 1, the For the People Act.

During the briefing, the Congresswoman outlined the various pro-democracy reforms proposed in H.R. 1, including the creation of a nationwide standard for early voting, the expansion of opportunities to vote by mail, and increased protection from misinformation and cyber attacks that interfere with our elections. She also discussed the importance of a well-functioning democracy for the business community.

White House Briefing: Small Business and the American Rescue Plan

Business Forward — Wed, 17 Mar 2021 20:29:54 +0000

On March 16th, Business Forward and Small Business for America’s future briefed Bharat Ramamurti, Deputy Director of the National Economic Council, on the American Rescue Plan. He answered questions from business leaders on the plan’s industry-specific provisions, how small businesses will benefit, and what is coming next.

This briefing is part of a series of briefings Business Forward and our partner Small Business for America's Future will conduct with Biden officials on critical economic, climate, and health care issues.

Briefing: American Rescue Plan

Business Forward — Thu, 25 Feb 2021 19:10:22 +0000

On February 24, our network briefed Biden officials on the American Rescue Plan. Biden’s Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement, Congressman Cedric Richmond joined us for introductory remarks, and Bharat Ramamurti, Deputy Director of the National Economic Council, answered questions from business leaders on economic recovery, the plan’s equity components, and PPP loans.

This briefing was part of a series of briefings Business Forward and our partner Small Business for America's Future will conduct with Biden officials on critical economic, climate, and health care policy.

Briefing: Biden's OPE Director and Nominees for Commerce and SBA

Business Forward — Wed, 20 Jan 2021 19:17:52 +0000

On January 15, Co-chair of the Biden-Harris transition team and Biden’s Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement, Congressman Cedric Richmond joined us for introductory remarks. Governor Gina Raimondo, President-elect Biden’s nominee for Secretary of Commerce, and Isabel Guzman, his nominee for Small Business Administrator, talked with Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck of Washington, and answered questions from business leaders on economic recovery, racial and gender equity, health care, helping rural America, and climate change. Both nominees discussed how the COVID-19 crisis has impacted small businesses across the country, and their plans to help business leaders build back better.

This briefing was part of a series of briefings Business Forward and our partner Small Business for America's Future will conduct with President-elect Biden’s nominees for critical economic, climate, and health care posts.

Briefing: Biden's OMB Nominee Neera Tanden

Business Forward — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 19:56:21 +0000

On Wednesday, January 6, Business Forward and Small Business For America’s Future welcomed Neera Tanden, President-elect Biden’s nominee for Director of the Office of Management and Budget. Tanden discussed her background and OMB’s role in President-elect Biden’s Build Back Better agenda, and answered questions from our network of business leaders.

Briefing: Ben Harris on Jobs & Investment in the Heartland

Business Forward — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 17:10:45 +0000

On Wednesday, October 28, Business Forward welcomed Ben Harris, Former Chief Economist to Vice President, Obama-Biden Administration, for a briefing on Vice President Biden’s plan to create jobs and investment in the Heartland.

Briefing: Biden's National Rural Engagement Director Will McIntee on Agriculture and Sustainable Infrastructure

Business Forward — Fri, 16 Oct 2020 17:18:34 +0000

On Thursday, October 15, Business Forward welcomed National Rural Engagement Director Will McIntee at Biden for President for a Solutions 2020: Real-world Recommendations for the Next President briefing. This briefing focused on the Vice President's plan for agriculture and sustainable infrastructure development.

Briefing: Biden's National Rural Engagement Director Will McIntee on Rural Policy

Business Forward — Thu, 24 Sep 2020 20:58:51 +0000

On Wednesday, September 23, Business Forward welcomed National Rural Engagement Director Will McIntee at Biden for President for a Solutions 2020: Real-world Recommendations for the Next President briefing as part of small business week. This briefing focused on the Vice President's plan for engaging small businesses located in rural communities.

Making the Business Case: Green Jobs

Business Forward — Fri, 28 Aug 2020 16:54:43 +0000

Jim Doyle, president of Business Forward, offers advice on how business leaders can communicate their ideas on transitioning to a green job economy with local media. Business Forward has helped more than 175,000 business leaders brief policymakers and work with local media, publish op-eds, testify at public hearings, lobby members of Congress and the White House, and advocate online.

Briefing: Biden Senior Policy Advisor Seema Sadanandan on Advancing Racial Equity

Business Forward — Fri, 31 Jul 2020 20:51:02 +0000

On Thursday, July 30, Business Forward and Small Business for America's Future welcomed Biden for President Senior Policy Advisor Seema Sadanandan and Deputy National Coalitions Director Jason Rodriguez for a Solutions 2020: Real-world Recommendations for the Next President briefing focused on the Vice President's plan for advancing racial equity in America.

Briefing: John Bailey on Closing the Homework Gap during Covid-19

Business Forward — Thu, 30 Jul 2020 17:05:56 +0000

On Tuesday, July 28, Business Forward Foundation welcomed John Bailey, visiting fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, for a briefing on steps Congress can take to close the homework gap.

On this call, Bailey outlined the causes of the homework gap, its impact on students during Covid-19, policy options, prospects for action in Congress, and steps local business leaders can take to help.

Briefing: Biden Policy Director Stef Feldman On The Caring Economy

Business Forward — Thu, 23 Jul 2020 21:43:13 +0000

On Wednesday, July 22, Business Forward and Small Business for America's Future welcomed Biden for President Policy Director Stef Feldman and Deputy National Coalitions Director Jason Rodriguez for a briefing focused on the Vice President's plan for building our caring economy. They discussed the campaign's plan to mobilize American talent to build a 21st century caregiving and education workforce to ease the burden of care for working parents, especially women.

Briefing: Larry Levitt on the Affordable Care Act as a Safety Net During COVID-19

Business Forward — Fri, 17 Jul 2020 15:45:16 +0000

On Thursday, July 16, Business Forward welcomed Larry Levitt, Executive Vice President for Health Policy at the Kaiser Family Foundation, for a briefing on how the Affordable Care Act (ACA) serves as a safety net for those who have lost their employer-sponsored health insurance during the pandemic.

Larry discussed the extent to which job losses have increased the number of uninsured Americans, and how the ACA provides coverage options for many of these Americans either through the marketplace exchange or through Medicaid. He also explained how Covid-19-related layoffs have worsened the coverage crisis for Americans living in 13 states that have yet to close their “Medicaid gap.”

Briefing: Biden Policy Director Stef Feldman on Modernizing our Energy Economy

Business Forward — Thu, 16 Jul 2020 19:26:58 +0000

On Wednesday, July 15, Business Forward and Small Business for America’s Future welcomed Biden for President Policy Director Stef Feldman for a Solutions 2020: Real-world Recommendations for the Next President briefing focused on the Vice President’s plan for modernizing our energy economy and building a sustainable infrastructure.

Briefing: Biden Team Members Jake Sullivan and Jason Rodriguez on Economic Policy

Business Forward — Fri, 10 Jul 2020 18:18:38 +0000

On Thursday, July 9, Business Forward and Small Business for America's Future welcomed Biden for President team members Jason Rodriguez, deputy national coalitions director, and Jake Sullivan, policy advisor, for a Solutions 2020: Real-world Recommendations for the Next President briefing focused on economic policy.

Our guests from Biden for President discussed the campaign's commitment to small business growth, its plan for collecting recommendations from small business owners, the Vice President's 2020 economic agenda, and its focus on helping small businesses manage the COVID-19 crisis.

Briefing: Mobilizing Technology for a 21st Century Government with Jennifer Anastasoff

Business Forward — Thu, 11 Jun 2020 14:22:37 +0000

Jim Doyle talks with Jennifer Anastasoff, executive director of the Tech Talent Project, about how to mobilize technology for a 21st century government. Anastasoff discusses the current state of technology used by government agencies and opportunities to upgrade systems and create new government tech roles.

Making the Business Case: Education Reform

Business Forward — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 19:46:14 +0000

Jim Doyle, president of Business Forward, offers advice on how business leaders can communicate their ideas on education reform with local media. Business Forward has helped more than 175,000 business leaders brief policymakers and work with local media, publish op-eds, testify at public hearings, lobby members of Congress and the White House, and advocate online.

Making the Business Case: Eight Rules to Follow

Business Forward — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 19:21:24 +0000

Jim Doyle, president of Business Forward, outlines the eight rules business leaders should follow when they talk to local media. Business Forward has helped more than 175,000 business leaders brief policymakers and work with local media, publish op-eds, testify at public hearings, lobby members of Congress and the White House, and advocate online.

Briefing: Natalie Gould on the Future of Work

Business Forward — Tue, 24 Mar 2020 16:45:06 +0000

Ed Meier talks with Natalie Gould, Co-Founder and COO of Washington Leadership Academy (WLA), about reforming high schools to prepare students for the future of work. They discuss WLA’s mandatory four-year computer science progression, its internship program, and what policymakers can do to encourage high schools to teach more technical skills.

Answering America: Should Washington Do More to Save Coal?

Business Forward — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 18:13:52 +0000

Taxpayers spend billions of dollars each year subsidizing coal companies, even though coal jobs are disappearing due to automation, surface mining, and natural gas. Despite clear market forces, Trump continues to protect coal plants and promise he will bring mining jobs back. Featured guests include Ohio business leader Myles Murray, director of communications at Better Together Solar, and David Hayes, former deputy secretary of the interior and current executive director of the State Energy and Environmental Impact Center at NYU.

Answering America: Are We Winning these Trade Wars?

Business Forward — Thu, 05 Mar 2020 15:38:12 +0000

President Trump once claimed that trade wars are "good and easy to win," but in his clash with China - American companies are paying the price. In trade wars with no strategy, there are more losers than winners. Featured guests include business leader and serial entrepreneur Robert Roche, founder and president of Roche Enterprises, and Jen Harris, former State Department official in the Obama Administration.

Briefing: Rep. Haley Stevens on the Future of Work

Business Forward — Thu, 27 Feb 2020 16:31:37 +0000

Business Forward Foundation welcomes Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11), New Democrat Coalition Future of Work Task Force Co-Chair, for a conference call briefing on closing the skills gap, investing in STEM education, and preparing young Americans for an economy in which they will need to operate as lifelong learners.

Answering America: What's Holding Back Our Small Businesses?

Business Forward — Tue, 25 Feb 2020 17:58:58 +0000

Small businesses employ nearly half of America’s workers and generate most of our new jobs. However, fewer new small businesses are being established, especially in rural areas. What’s to blame? Student debt and the lack of fair access to capital. Featured guests include Illinois business leader Robin Simmons, director of innovation and outreach at Sunshine Enterprises, Illinois business leader Eya Louis of SOUL Works L3C, and Michael S. Barr, Dean of the Ford School of Public Policy at the University of Michigan.

Briefing: Cameron Kerry on Privacy

Business Forward — Wed, 19 Feb 2020 18:59:46 +0000

Business Forward welcomed Cameron Kerry, visiting fellow at the Brookings Institution’s Center for Technology Innovation and former acting Secretary of Commerce, for a briefing on the state of consumer privacy reform. He discussed the surge in data collection, new data uses, key players in Congress, and what a bipartisan deal might look like.

Answering America: Do We Need to Build a Wall?

Business Forward — Tue, 18 Feb 2020 16:53:19 +0000

President Trump’s focus on the wall has divided the country and derailed bipartisan legislation on infrastructure. In reality, there are better and cheaper ways to protect the U.S. and those dollars would be better spent fixing America’s roads, bridges, rail, and waterways. Featured guests include Ohio business leader Kevin Burch, Lansing Mayor Andy Schor, Michigan business leader Pat Gillespie, and former Deputy Secretary of Transportation and WSP President John D. Porcari.

Answering America: Is America Better Off Going It Alone?

Business Forward — Tue, 11 Feb 2020 15:18:06 +0000

Under President Trump, “America First” means “America Alone” – this is bad for business. Featured guests include Michigan business leader Cornelius Harris, founder of Alter Ego Management and Jake Sullivan, Distinguished Montgomery Fellow at Dartmouth College.

Answering America: What is the One Big Thing We Can Do to Fix Our Economy?

Business Forward — Tue, 04 Feb 2020 15:06:28 +0000

Women remain overrepresented in low-paying jobs and underrepresented in high-paying jobs. By simply helping women match men’s labor force participation, America could grow its economy by $1 trillion. Featured guests include Colorado business leader Denise Burgess, President and CEO of Burgess Services and Betsey Stevenson, Professor at the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy at the University of Michigan.

Answering America: Will Automation Take Our Jobs?

Business Forward — Wed, 29 Jan 2020 18:37:25 +0000

Automation creates and destroys jobs simultaneously, changing the future of work. We can't go back. We must reskill. School reform must prepare our students for the skills and qualities tomorrow’s employers will need. Featured guests include Michigan business leader Michael Guthrie, founding design principal of inFORM Studio and Alastair Fitzpayne, Executive Director of the Future of Work Initiative at the Aspen Institute.

Briefing: Ivan Frishberg and Gregg Gelzinis on Sustainable Banking

Business Forward — Fri, 24 Jan 2020 15:34:37 +0000

On Wednesday, January 22, Business Forward Foundation welcomed Ivan Frishberg, director of impact policy for Amalgamated Bank, and Gregg Gelzinis, senior policy analyst at the Center for American Progress, for a briefing on sustainable banking. They discussed new commitments from leading banks to disclose their climate change risk and the carbon emissions they finance; the impact this new disclosure could have on renewable energy investment; and, how new regulations could speed this process.

Briefing: Neal Katyal on Rule of Law and Impeachment

Business Forward — Tue, 21 Jan 2020 19:10:23 +0000

On Wednesday, January 15, Business Forward Foundation welcomed former Acting Solicitor General of the United States Neal Katyal for a briefing on the facts and legal theories behind the impeachment of President Trump, as well as other threats to rule of law in the U.S.

Answering America: Are Trump's Tax Cuts Helping the Middle Class?

Business Forward — Tue, 21 Jan 2020 18:46:37 +0000

By favoring types of income that only the richest Americans earn, President Trump's tax cuts skipped the middle class by design. Now, he wants to cut health care and social security by $1.7 trillion to pay for it. Featured guests include Tennessee business leader Stephen Prince, Owner of National Business Products and David Kamin, Professor of Law at New York University School of Law.

Answering America: Can We Fix Climate Change Without Wrecking the Economy?

Business Forward — Tue, 14 Jan 2020 13:42:44 +0000

By protecting coal plants and cutting funding for solar and wind R&D, President Trump is fighting market forces beyond his control. The U.S. should be leading on energy, but we are at risk of falling behind. Featured guests include Pennsylvania business leader Kjerstin Klein, Owner of Willi’s Ski Shop, Inc. and Kristina Costa, Climate and Energy Policy Adviser.

Answering America: Is America Full?

Business Forward — Tue, 14 Jan 2020 13:40:28 +0000

President Trump argues that America is being overwhelmed by immigrants. The truth? Many communities are aging, shrinking, and losing their young talent to larger cities, creating a negative cycle that hurts local jobs, property values, and investment. Immigrants can break this cycle. Featured guests include Wisconsin business leader Ryan Clancy, Owner of Bounce Milwaukee and Marshall Fitz, Managing Director of Immigration at the Emerson Collective.

Solutions 2020: Government Innovation Policy Working Group

Business Forward — Tue, 17 Dec 2019 17:48:33 +0000

On Monday, December 16, Business Forward welcomed Michele Jolin, CEO and Co-founder of Results for America, to kick off the Solutions 2020 Government Innovation Policy Working Group. On this podcast, we discussed how data can improve government performance.

Conference call: Rep. Don Beyer (VA-08) on the New Democrat Coalition climate priorities

Business Forward — Fri, 18 Oct 2019 13:57:49 +0000

On Thursday, October 17, the Business Forward Foundation welcomed Congressman Don Beyer (VA-08) for a conference call on the New Democrat Coalition climate priorities. He talked about how investing in renewable energy strengthens our national security, makes our economy more competitive, and increases economic opportunity.

Conference call: Doug Rand on the Department of Homeland Security's "public charge rule"

Business Forward — Fri, 11 Oct 2019 18:54:07 +0000

Business Forward welcomed Doug Rand, Senior Fellow and Director of the Technology and Innovation Initiative at the Federation of American Scientists, and co-founder of Boundless. Rand discussed the Department of Homeland Security's "public charge rule" that will go into effect next week. He talked about the rule's negative impact on businesses and how it reduces the talent pool availability to U.S. employers, imposes substantial paperwork burdens on immigrants and their employers, and overall financial burden to the American economy.

Conference call with Franz Litz on the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative

Business Forward — Fri, 11 Oct 2019 13:53:53 +0000

Business Forward is joined by Franz Litz, Principal at Litz Energy Strategies, LLC, for a webinar on the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), the market-based CO2 reduction program run by Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Litz explains how RGGI works, how states and local businesses benefit, how falling wind and solar prices are helping, and which states are likely to join.

Solutions 2020: Brief Governor Steve Bullock

Business Forward — Wed, 18 Sep 2019 14:01:03 +0000

On Tuesday, September 17, Business Forward welcomed Montana Governor Steve Bullock for a Solutions 2020: Real-world Recommendations for the Next President conference call. Governor Bullock discussed his 2020 agenda for growing our economy and improving economic opportunity.

Solutions 2020: Small Business Working Group #2

Business Forward — Thu, 18 Jul 2019 16:42:51 +0000

On Tuesday, July 16, Business Forward welcomed Michael S. Barr, Dean of the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy at the University of Michigan for a Solutions 2020 Policy Working Group call on small business.

This is the second of the Solutions 2020 Small Business Policy Working Group series. This call focused on consumer protection for small businesses.

Solutions 2020: Future of Work Policy Working Group

Business Forward — Wed, 26 Jun 2019 17:37:14 +0000

On Tuesday, June 25, Business Forward welcomed Al Fitzpayne, Executive Director of the Aspen Institute Future of Work Initiative, and Massachusetts State Senator Eric Lesser, for a Solutions 2020 Policy Working Group call on the future of work.

This is the second of the Solutions 2020 Future of Work Policy Working Group series. On this working group call, policy experts and business leaders outlined the future of work challenges facing our country and begin discussing policy solutions. This webinar focused on designing portable benefits to bring financial security to workers in a changing economy.

Solutions 2020 conference call: Foreign Policy Working Group

Business Forward — Wed, 19 Jun 2019 14:52:28 +0000

On Tuesday, June 18, Business Forward welcomed Laura Rosenberger, Director of the Alliance for Securing Democracy and Senior Fellow at The German Marshall Fund of the United States, for a Solutions 2020 Policy Working Group call on foreign policy.

Solutions 2020 conference call: Brief Congressman Seth Moulton

Business Forward — Fri, 14 Jun 2019 20:03:04 +0000

On Friday, June 14, Business Forward welcomed Congressman Seth Moulton for our seventh Solutions 2020: Real-world Recommendations for the Next President conference call.

Solutions 2020: Infrastructure Policy Working Group

Business Forward — Fri, 14 Jun 2019 16:07:22 +0000

On Thursday, June 13, Business Forward welcomed former Deputy Secretary of Transportation John D. Porcari, Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley, and former Assistant Secretary of Transportation Carlos Monje for our second Solutions 2020 Infrastructure Working Group. On this working group call, policy experts and business leaders discussed the state of play on the $2 trillion infrastructure package being discussed in Washington and the different infrastructure proposals outlined by the 2020 presidential candidates. The group focused on areas of agreement and disagreement between the proposals, including how to pay for them.

Solutions 2020: Climate and Clean Energy Policy Working Group

Business Forward — Wed, 05 Jun 2019 18:51:25 +0000

On Tuesday, June 4, Business Forward welcomed Christy Goldfuss, Senior Vice President of Energy and Environment Policy at the Center for American Progress, for a Solutions 2020 Policy Working group call on climate and clean energy.

Solutions 2020: Education Policy Working Group

Business Forward — Thu, 30 May 2019 22:02:46 +0000

On Thursday, May 30, Business Forward welcomed Lanae Erickson, Senior Vice President for the Social Policy and Politics Program at Third Way, for a webinar on higher education. This is the first in our Solutions 2020 Education Policy Working Group series. This working group call discussed the cost of wasted taxpayer dollars at low-performing higher education institutions.

Conference Call: Bipartisan Solutions for Retirement Savings

Business Forward — Thu, 23 May 2019 13:32:15 +0000

On Wednesday, May 22, Business Forward welcomed Congressman Ron Kind (WI-03) and Phil Waldeck, President of Prudential Retirement, for a conference call on the bipartisan effort to increase access to retirement savings.

Conference Call: National Women’s Health Week with Congresswoman DelBene

Business Forward — Tue, 21 May 2019 18:25:42 +0000

Business Forward welcomed Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01), for a conference call on protecting and supporting a health care system that reflects the needs of working women and their reproductive rights.

Solutions 2020 conference call: Brief Mayor Pete Buttigieg

Business Forward — Mon, 20 May 2019 17:23:53 +0000

On Monday, May 20, Business Forward welcomed South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg for our sixth Solutions 2020: Real-world Recommendations for the Next President conference call.

Solutions 2020 Conference Call: Future of Work Policy Working Group

Business Forward — Wed, 15 May 2019 18:38:30 +0000

On Thursday, May 9, Business Forward welcomed Al Fitzpayne from the Aspen Institute and Massachusetts State Senator Eric Lesser for a conference call on the Future of Work.

Solutions 2020: Small Business Policy Working Group

Business Forward — Fri, 03 May 2019 15:22:51 +0000

On Thursday, May 2, Business Forward welcomed Michael Barr, Dean of the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy at the University of Michigan and former Assistant Secretary of Treasury, and Marie Johns, Managing Member of Leftwich LLC, former Deputy Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, for a conference call on small business policy.

Solutions 2020: Foreign Policy Working Group

Business Forward — Thu, 02 May 2019 14:59:31 +0000

On Tuesday, April 30, Business Forward welcomed Jake Sullivan, Co-Chair at National Security Action for a conference call on foreign policy.

Solutions 2020: Policy Working Group, Infrastructure

Business Forward — Fri, 19 Apr 2019 20:41:17 +0000

On Thursday, April 18, Business Forward welcomed former Deputy Secretary of Transportation John D. Porcari, Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley, and former Assistant Secretary of Transportation Carlos Monje for a conference call to kick off the Solutions 2020 Infrastructure Working Group.

Solutions 2020 conference call: Brief U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar

Business Forward — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 15:12:14 +0000

The fifth installment in our Solutions 2020: Real-world Recommendations for the Next President.