Sen. Anthony Intros Bicameral, Bipartisan Bills to Help Small Businesses Succeed in Michigan

During Small Business Month, Sen. Anthony aims to expand use of Michigan Strategic Fund, create new state office to unlock support for small business growth

Lansing, MI– As Small Business Month comes to a close, Sen. Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing) worked across the aisle and across the chamber to introduce legislation this week that would drive vital support to small businesses statewide. 

“From our mom and pop shops and salons to restaurants and more, small businesses make Michigan communities vibrant,” said Sen. Anthony. “During Small Business Month, I’m proud to introduce legislation which would equip small business owners with the resources and tools they need to grow and succeed here in Michigan. Thanks to the dedicated partnership of the Small Business Association of Michigan, this bipartisan, bicameral package truly reflects the needs of small and microbusinesses and the solutions needed to help them stay a strong driving force behind Michigan’s economy, workforce, and communities.”

Senate Bill 1009 would expand the use of Michigan Strategic Fund dollars, allowing them to be used to administer or invest in small business programs, services, and initiatives across the state.

“This legislation takes an important step toward making small business central to Michigan’s economic strategy by establishing a long-term approach through the new Office of Small Business Growth,” said President & CEO Brian Calley of the Small Business Association of Michigan. “Small businesses are the very core of our communities, driving vitality, stability, and opportunity. I want to thank Senator Anthony for her strong leadership and collaboration in moving this effort forward.”

Building on the framework included in the Senate’s 2027 budget proposal, Senate Bill 1010 would create the Office of Small Business Growth within the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), which would serve as the state’s central hub for small business strategy and coordination. It would align programs across agencies, strengthen partnerships with local providers, and improve how small businesses connect to capital and technical assistance. 

These bills now head to the Senate Committee on Appropriations for further consideration.

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