Our Critical Conversation panel on February 14th gave our small business owners the following advice:

Focus on the fundamentals of creating a strong business that will serve you well no matter the political climate. Consider the opportunities to pivot and find new markets, customers, and funders. Remember, there is opportunity in every circumstance–even if it feels like a setback, look for the possibilities you can capitalize on.  

If you are a non-profit relying on federal funding, ensure that you are compliant with all relevant laws and covenants of your agreement–and check frequently to see if you can access funds.

Connect and collaborate with others in your field and your local community.

Don’t over-react to the news coming from Washington.  Be thoughtful and pause to see what happens since there is so much turmoil and things can change from day to day. 

Doing the work to make your business strong is always worth it--even more so in times of increased economic uncertainty. Dig into your finances, know your numbers, stay organized... Resilience is always the goal. Play the long game. 

The process of seeking certification (or getting your business "loan-ready") can be a good strengthening exercise.

Cultivate connections with your peers, others in your industry, local business leaders/advocates for small business, and local elected officials (especially if they ran on a pro-business platform--hold them to it).

Every type of business/organization benefits from a more diverse funding stream. How can you add revenue from new sources?

If you have a government grant or loan, conduct regular "self-audits" to be sure you're compliant with all requirements and have all necessary documentation. (Proof of payment is often overlooked--you need to show that you actually paid expenses, not just that you incurred them.) 

Be mindful of the difference between "chatter"/speculation and actual policy. Executive orders have to be enacted by agencies, so even those orders may not play out as expected. (Also, DEI is not "illegal" now.)

Take care of yourself. Limit your news consumption. Don't isolate. Ask for help when you need it.  

There is always opportunity. Don't be afraid to go for it. 

Here are some of the resources mentioned by our panelists as reliable places for information:

https://www.councilofnonprofits.org/trends-and-policy-issues 

https://pano.org/federal-funding-halt-what-we-know-so-far/ 

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/01/31/2025-02097/ending-illegal-discrimination-and-restoring-merit-based-opportunity 

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/01/29/2025-01953/ending-radical-and-wasteful-government-dei-programs-and-preferencing