Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Voices brought 60 rural small business owners to Washington, D.C., advocating for policies to enhance economic growth. The delegation, representing 16 states, met with lawmakers and policymakers, including Small Business Administration Administrator Kelly Loeffler, to push for improved access to capital, workforce development, affordable child care, and reduced regulatory burdens.

A survey of rural small business owners found that 76% are concerned about accessing capital, 66% support tax code simplifications, and 63% feel regulatory burdens hinder their growth. Additionally, 70% struggle to attract workers, and 47% cite the lack of affordable child care as a major obstacle.

Goldman Sachs has committed $100 million to invest in rural communities, launching business education programs and supporting Community Development Financial Institutions. The company has already unlocked $37 million in funding and aims to expand to 20 states within five years.

As part of the initiative, radio personality Bobby Bones joined the event, highlighting the importance of advocacy. This effort aligns with a recent policy strategy report from Goldman Sachs and the Bipartisan Policy Center, aiming to level the playing field for small businesses by reducing barriers, fostering innovation, and improving workforce competitiveness.