Cantwell, Young Introduce Bill to Help Small Businesses Succeed in Digital Economy

Cantwell, Young Introduce Bill to Help Small Businesses Succeed in Digital Economy

"As artificial intelligence becomes an essential workplace tool, small businesses should not be left behind," says Cantwell

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Finance Committee, and Todd Young (R-IN) introduced the AI for Mainstreet Act, legislation that would provide training, guidance, and support to American small businesses choosing to evaluate and implement artificial intelligence (AI).

The Small Business Administration established Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) nationwide to provide support and training to American small businesses. The AI for Mainstreet Act would expand the support and training from SBDCs regarding AI, including how to utilize AI to streamline business functions and operations, better plan for unexpected circumstances, protect data and intellectual property, and improve cybersecurity.

In 2024, Washington SBDC advised 3,602 small business owners and entrepreneurs through service centers located in more than 30 communities across the state. Washington SBDC helped small businesses create and save nearly 2,000 jobs and supported 267 new business starts. In total, Washington SBDC increased small business sales by $112 million in 2024.

"As artificial intelligence becomes an essential workplace tool, small businesses should not be left behind," said Sen. Cantwell. "This legislation will help provide guidance and training to thousands of Washington small businesses on how they can use AI to help their businesses grow and thrive."

"Our bill will provide training, guidance, and support to ensure more American small businesses are equipped with the tools needed to compete in today's evolving digital economy," said Sen. Young.

U.S. Representatives Hillary Scholten (D, MI-03) and Mark Alford (R, MO-04) introduced companion legislation in the House in 2025.

Full text of the legislation can be found HERE.