Bill > HB6014

This bill establishes the Office of Small Business Growth within the Michigan Strategic Fund to support small businesses, defined as independently owned and operated businesses incorporated or doing business in Michigan with fewer than 500 full-time employees. The office will be headed by a Small Business Administrator, appointed by the governor, who must be qualified and adhere to strict ethical guidelines regarding political activity and conflicts of interest. The office's core responsibilities include facilitating job creation and retention for small businesses, coordinating state government programs and services for them, and maintaining a comprehensive "one-stop" website detailing how to start and operate a business, available resources like grants and loans, and directing businesses to relevant organizations. It will also provide technical assistance, conduct outreach, and seek additional funding. The office may also administer programs, offer training, recommend legislative changes, and delegate powers from the Michigan Strategic Fund related to small businesses. Furthermore, the office is required to collect and analyze data on its program outcomes and submit an annual report detailing its activities and findings to various state officials and legislative bodies.