Almost any politician, financial analyst or business guru will tell you that small businesses are the engine that drives the national economy.  And franchised businesses play a vital role where that is concerned.

 

Recently IFA President and CEO Matthew Shay presented a five-point economic recovery plan to Congress.  Here are some of the highlights.

 

1. Strengthen Secondary Markets to increase the amount of credit available to small businesses and prevent lending officials from being overly cautious in approving start-up and operating funding.

2. Modify the SBA Loan program to allow an increased access to capital, specifically increasing the guarantee percentages on loans.

3. Eliminate tax inequities and uncertainties (like the death tax) for small businesses.

4. Help small businesses to make health insurance more affordable for their employees.

5. Increase support for Veterans by appointing a Franchising Program Coordinator at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.