Brooks, Walters, Hultgren initiate nationwide Startup Week to credit entrepreneurs

U.S. Reps. Susan Brooks (R-IN), Mimi Walters
(R-CA), and Randy Hultgren (R-IL) on Aug. 20 marked the launch of the new bipartisan Startup Week Across America campaign to spotlight the role new companies play in boosting the nation’s economy.

The lawmakers said Congress must ensure startups are encouraged to grow, and they are committed to providing new businesses with resources for continued success.

“Startups across America grow our economy, create jobs, and transform the global marketplace. American entrepreneurs play a vital role in our nation’s future economic success, and as lawmakers, we must understand the economic benefits startups create,” Rep. Walters said. “Startup Week Across America is a great opportunity to connect with local entrepreneurs and highlight their contributions to our communities.”

In 2017, startup businesses accounted for nearly 9.5 percent of all private-sector firms in the United States, according to a joint statement from the lawmakers.

“American entrepreneurs are creating startup companies that are thriving in the Internet of Things era and are contributing to our nation’s overall economic success,” Rep. Brooks said.

Rep. Hultgren agreed and noted that small businesses drive job growth nationwide, fueled by entrepreneurship. “The fabric of our nation is literally woven with the ambition and hope of entrepreneurship and the recognition that anyone, from any background, can innovate, persevere and build a business,” he said.

The GOP members were joined in naming the week of Aug. 20 as Startup Week Across America by U.S. Reps. Suzan DelBene (D-WA), Jerry McNerney (D-CA), and Yvette Clarke (D-NY).

Congresswoman Brooks also pointed out that startup companies have utilized technology to create groundbreaking products and services across a range of industries, including health care, education, and entertainment. “As new startups are launched, we are seeing more job and career opportunities for people across the country,” she added.

Rep. McNerney said he planned this week to tour the Stockton, Calif.-based HATCH Workshop, a startup in his district that offers training and education in the design and entrepreneurship around fine crafts and provides access to affordable housing and workspaces.

“This startup is expanding its impact by offering other startups and entrepreneurs the tools and resources needed to get their businesses off the ground,” said Rep. McNerney, calling the workshop “a great example for why we must continue to foster startup opportunities and support policies that help turn innovative, unique ideas into America’s next great business venture.”