Member Volunteer Opportunities

Member Volunteer Opportunities

Get Involved with SBAM

At SBAM, we believe that the strength of our organization lies in the passion and participation of our members. That’s why we’re proud to launch a new volunteer engagement program designed to make it easier—and more meaningful—than ever for members to get involved.

Ready to make your mark? Learn more and apply to join a council today.

Volunteer applications are currently being accepted for positions that begin in September 2025. Selections are anticipated to be made in August.

Apply Today

How to Get Involved

Whether you’re passionate about advocacy, eager to lead, or simply looking to connect with peers, there’s a place for you in SBAM’s volunteer network. Members can serve in a variety of ways—each role contributing to a stronger, more unified voice for Michigan’s small business community.

Policy Councils

Focus on shaping Michigan’s legislative and regulatory landscape, ensuring small business voices are heard where it matters most.

Childcare
Economic Development & Tax
Education & Workforce
Energy & Infrastructure
Government & Regulation
Healthcare

Additional Details

Regional Councils

Foster local connections and collaboration among members in distinct geographic areas.

Capital Region
Great Lakes Bay Region
Greater Macomb Region
Greater Oakland Region
Greater Southwest Region
Greater Washtenaw Region
Greater Wayne Region
Lakeshore Region
Northern Michigan Region
Upper Peninsula Region
West Michigan Region

Additional Details

SBAM Governance

SBAM is governed by a Board of Directors. Several committees report directly to the Board. These committees have select openings available for members at large.

Board Development
Finance
Membership
Policial Action Committee

Additional Details

Business Affinity Councils

Targeted resources and networking for specific industries and ownership models, helping members tackle unique challenges and share best practices.

Family Business
Micro Business
Minority Business
Retired Business Owner
Sole Entrepreneur Business
Veteran Business
Women Business

Additional Details

Frequently Asked Questions:

How often will these councils meet?

These councils will meet on a quarterly basis, via Zoom. There will also be an expectation for council members to engage with the larger online communities for their respective councils and others of interest. (online communities coming in Fall 2025)

How are the councils comprised?

Each council will have a Chairperson, SBAM staff liaison, and 10 members-at-large.

Will I still be a member of Leadership Council if I don’t volunteer?

Going forward, all members of Leadership Council will be comprised of our council and committee members.

What is the timeline for implementation?

The current application timeline is open through July 31, 2025 and selections for council members will be made in August. We anticipate initial meetings to happen this fall ahead of the Leadership Council Summit on Mackinac Island.

Will other councils be added in the future?

Yes! We are planning for industry-focused councils in the near future, but invite you to share your ideas with us by emailing sbam@sbam.org.

What are the responsibilities of council members?

Generally, members will be responsible for attending meetings regularly, providing input on policy or programming, and serving as ambassadors for SBAM.

I’m already a regional ambassador. Is that program changing?

Yes and no. We encourage regional ambassadors to volunteer to be part of their regional councils. We are finalizing details on how the current ambassador program and the council will intersect.

Do I have to be an SBAM member to participate?

Yes. You must be an SBAM member in good standing at the Basic, Premium, VIP, or Elite level.