As we kick off 2025, the SCN Policy Committee is excited to share a roundup of major wins and key developments that are shaping the entrepreneurial landscape across the country. From federal legislation to local ordinances, we’ve seen real momentum in creating a more inclusive, accessible, and founder-friendly startup ecosystem.
A Look Back: Big Wins in 2024
At the Federal Level
There’s been significant progress in making capital more accessible for founders—especially women and entrepreneurs of color. The Expanding American Entrepreneurship Act was introduced in the Senate, aiming to broaden investment eligibility and unlock more capital under existing SEC rules. The House passed several pro-startup measures, including legislation to boost accredited investor access, expand fund-of-funds eligibility, and increase venture fund caps.
We’re also celebrating the passage of bipartisan tax legislation that restores first-year R&D expensing, helping startups reinvest in innovation and growth. Additionally, the Stronger Workforce for America Act includes vital workforce development provisions pulled from the Startup Act—boosting entrepreneurial training nationwide.
At the State Level
States are stepping up. Six now support Global EIR programs with $11M+ in funding to attract and retain international founders. Multiple states—Indiana, North Dakota, Washington, Nebraska, Hawaii, Alaska, and Texas—have introduced or advanced legislation to establish state-level Offices of Entrepreneurship.
Nevada took a bold step toward inclusive investing with AB75, a bill that would allow more residents to become certified investors under relaxed criteria—potentially tripling the number of eligible investors in the state.
In Texas, Governor Greg Abbott launched the Small Business Freedom Council, an initiative focused on reducing bureaucratic barriers for small businesses and startups.
In Maryland, the Pava LaPere Legacy of Innovation Act, named in honor of the late Baltimore entrepreneur, established grant programs and expanded startup incentives focused on tech and innovation. Additional legislation reformed small business grant programs, doubled maximum award sizes, and streamlined the process for minority and women-owned businesses.
Several new bills in 2025 aim to build on that momentum with enhanced R&D incentives, cybersecurity tax credits, and small business benefit reforms.
Local Governments Are Driving Change, Too
Cities are making moves to support entrepreneurs on the ground:
Washington, DC funded the BEST Act, dramatically simplifying the licensing process and lowering costs for small businesses.
St. Louis passed ordinances to streamline operations for restaurants, barbershops, and home-based food businesses.
Kansas City is now collecting data to improve permitting and inspection processes.
Bismarck, ND amended zoning codes to support home-based businesses.
What’s Next: 2025 Policy Priorities
Looking ahead, we’re tracking critical federal issues that will shape the entrepreneurial environment:
Capital Access: With Senator Tim Scott chairing the Senate Banking Committee, we expect renewed focus on equity capital for underrepresented founders.
Immigration Reform: Bipartisan support may drive progress on a long-awaited Startup Visa and green cards for high-skilled grads.
Student Debt & Childcare: Proposals like the Entrepreneurship, Growth, and Opportunity Act (EGOA) and expanded childcare access aim to remove key barriers for aspiring founders.
Noncompete Bans: The Workforce Mobility Act could increase labor flexibility and founder mobility.
Healthcare Access: Reforms to Direct Primary Care could improve healthcare affordability for founders.
Entrepreneurship Corps: A new national service program modeled on the Peace Corps could drive entrepreneurship in underserved communities.
SCN Policy Committee: Advancing Ecosystem Equity
Led by Eric Parker and Mark Lawrence, the SCN Policy Committee continues to advocate for smart, inclusive policy across all levels of government. From testifying in state hearings to advising on federal rule changes, our members are shaping a more vibrant and equitable ecosystem for all entrepreneurs.
Stay tuned—2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for startup policy!