LEOMINSTER — Small business owner Neil Abramson recently met with federal lawmakers in Washington, D.C. to advocate for business-friendly tech policies.
The visit came ahead of National Small Business Week May 3–9, where the CFO of Leominster-based ECi Stores called for balanced policies that promote small business success, according to a press release.
During the meeting with U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern’s office, Abramson advocated for balanced tech policies that help small businesses like his succeed in the current uncertain economic climate, specifically raising concerns that proposals to restrict the use of data, AI, and digital tools could make it harder for small businesses to reach customers, operate efficiently, and grow.
“I appreciated the opportunity to meet with Representative McGovern’s staff to share how small businesses like mine use digital tools to stay ahead in today’s uncertain economy,” said Abramson, who offers a wide variety of clothing options, from newborn to plus size, as well as housewares, furniture, and more at his two Central Street Leominster businesses — Cutie Patuties and Cutiques. “Digital tools like AI and online advertising help us reach customers, manage our business, and stay competitive. I hope lawmakers continue to consider small businesses’ perspectives and needs and craft policies that help us succeed.”
Abramson was one of 34 small business leaders from across the country who traveled to the nation’s capital to interact with dozens of elected officials and their staff.
“Small business owners are too busy running our stores to track every policy debate in Washington, but those decisions shape what’s possible for us every single day,” he said recently. “I’m grateful Congressman McGovern’s team is the kind of office where a small business owner from Leominster can walk in, share what’s really happening on the ground, and know it’s actually being heard.”
Research provided by nonprofit organization Connected Commerce Council noted that three-quarters of U.S. small businesses use data-powered digital ads to connect with customers and compete with larger companies, over half consider AI tools critical to their success, and 80% say digital tools are important for running their businesses.
“It’s inspiring to see small business leaders like Neil take the time to share their real-world experiences directly with lawmakers,” said Connected Commerce Council Executive Director Rob Retzlaff. “Their perspectives help ensure policy decisions reflect how digital tools are actually used by small businesses across the country.”
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