FAQ | SBAC

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the SBAC?

The Small Business Advocacy Council, or simply the SBAC, is a 501c6 organization laser focused on nonpartisan small business policy at the federal, state, and local levels of government. Using policy committees & subcommittees, informational webinars, and issue specific townhalls, we advocate for legislation that will improve the small business environment. In addition to our nonpartisan advocacy work, we also host various networking events that connect business owners to a common cause.

View our full story here> https://www.smallbusinessadvocacycouncil.org/our-story/

What is a 501C(6)?

The SBAC is a nonprofit organization. A 501c6 is a business that is organized to promote business but does not generate a profit.

Who does the SBAC serve?

The SBAC is laser-focused on serving the small business community. Our mission is to enact policies that better enable and level the playing field for all. We are committed to being non-partisan and thus our footprint is much larger in the legislative forum.

How can the SBAC help me and my business?

The SBAC is here to listen to the community and what you as a small business owner see, hear and experience every day. We can help your business understand and participate in amending small business legislation.

What should I know about the SBAC’s work?

Did you know that Illinois used to have the some of the highest LLC fees in the nation? Thanks to the SBAC’s dedication to fighting for small businesses, in 2017, this fee was lowered from $500 to $150, allowing more entrepreneurs to launch new businesses and grow the Illinois economy.

Additionally, until July 2021, Chicago small businesses could not get approval for public way use permits for up to 5 months. The SBAC played a huge role in amending this ordinance – fighting for 7 years – to eliminate the need for City Council approval on these permits, allowing small businesses more opportunity to draw in customers and grow their business.

You can review the full list of wins here > https://www.smallbusinessadvocacycouncil.org/advocacy-initiatives/sbac-wins/

What is the benefit of being an SBAC Business Supporter?

By joining the SBAC Team as a Business Supporter, you will have access to an amazing set of tools to put your business on a path of growth and long-term success. SBAC Business Supporters are the building blocks to the success of the small business community. Their involvement extends deep into the community building relationships with their legislatures and becoming local advocates for the initiatives targeted.

How do I get engaged with the SBAC?

One of the best ways to dip your feet into the SBAC world is to attend our bi-weekly policy committee meeting. Get to know the policies currently on the SBAC agenda!

Another way is to jump on one of our many networking virtual events, townhalls or attend a live event. All of these events can be found on our calendar here > https://members.smallbusinessadvocacycouncil.org/events-calendar.

Is the SBAC on Social media?

YES! Follow the SBAC on all of our social media platforms and share information about our latest advocacy efforts.

FB: Small Business Advocacy Council

LI: Small Business Advocacy Council

Twitter: sbacil

Instagram: sbacil

YouTube: Small Business Advocacy Council