The Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation will host the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) 40th Annual Government-Business Forum on Small Business Capital Formation in a virtual event this year in light of the ongoing COVID health crisis.
This is the 40th gathering of its kind that results in recommendations for the Commission to improve the environment for small businesses. Prior to the creation of the Advocate, many of these recommendations ended up gathering dust on a shelf somewhere on F Street. The Advocate’s participation in the event has engendered new importance for the discussions that may address regulatory challenges and access to capital issues that impact small businesses.
The SEC Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation Martha Legg Miller commented on the forthcoming event:
“Our team is thrilled to be hosting the 40th Small Business Forum, where we will hear from a diverse group of entrepreneurs, businesses, and their investors on trends in capital raising. As we examine capital formation policy and solicit feedback from Forum participants, we must ask the critical questions: how is this serving the needs of entrepreneurs and their investors, who is being left behind, and what needs to change?”
Newly appointed SEC Chairman Gary Gensler added:
“I look forward to hearing from small businesses and their investors at my first Small Business Forum as Chair. As the son of a small business owner, I am excited to spotlight the critical role entrepreneurs play in our capital markets ecosystem – providing jobs, spurring innovation, and supporting our communities.”
The Forum will take place over the following days with each of the four sessions featuring panelists with knowledge of the issues facing small businesses across the country:
- Monday, May 24: Finding Your First Dollars
- Tuesday, May 25: Being a Savvy Investor
- Wednesday, May 26: Small and Emerging Funds
- Thursday, May 27: Small Cap Insights
Interested parties should register for the Forum in advance to receive a link to engage in the live virtual event. After registration, participants will receive information about how to submit feedback and policy recommendations to be considered at the event.
You may register here.