Free enterprise is the best system in the world at enabling success and ensuring our future. However, public support for this idea is declining. Free enterprise is an economic system in which private business operates in competition and largely free of state control. “ Our families, communities, our country, and our world are the biggest winners because of free enterprise”, declared U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Suzanne Clark at The State of American Business. This event was recently held in Washington, DC and on-line.

Clark said the state of American business is optimistic. “ Markets benefit millions of people every day. Competition drives collaboration and creativity. Failure leads to learning and is often a prerequisite for success. Winners take their profits and find new problems to solve. Competitors learn from others’ success and drive continued advancement. Free enterprise has given rise to innovations that have improved the quality of life. We have more choices in goods, services, and jobs and these benefits are
shared broadly. Most- 98%- of the value of new technology goes to the people who use it, while the company or entrepreneur gets 2%. Free enterprise also generates the economic growth needed to pay for education, defense, basic research, transit and infrastructure, and the social safety net. It fuels philanthropy and funds the arts, entertainment, and culture that enrich our lives. Most importantly,  growth puts more money in people’s pockets so they can care for their families and pursue their goals.
The bottom line is those who believe in free enterprise- those who have lived it and been lifted by it-must stand up and say so,” said Clark.

Free enterprise will revitalize communities that were left behind in the modern economy; Rethink education in this country so every person has every opportunity to do and be and give their best; Reskill and reposition the workforce for the future, so all people can keep up with the rapid pace of change; Responsibly leverage AI and unleash a new era of human productivity; Address climate change and lead the energy transition while powering our economies today and solve global problems from food
insecurity to water scarcity. 

But Clark warned that American free enterprise is under threat today.” It’s under threat from a small but powerful opposition of policymakers, political candidates, academies, and organizations- some who think it needs to be replaced and are spending tens of millions of dollars to that end. They are sowing seeds of doubt- and if they successed, they will limit your potential, stifle our growth, and undermine our future.

Clark continues, if each of us stands up-in big ways and small- we can send a message that counters the cynics and pessimists. And if we all do it together with a unified voice we can start a movement to save the system that will secure our collective future.” 

In our communities of Southwest Louisiana we all know examples of entrepreneurs who have begun businesses and operated them successfully. In addition to providing for their families and employees, they have given much back to our schools, churches, non-profits, and many worthwhile events. 

Everyone has benefitted. At The SEED Center Business Incubator we have many examples of individuals who are risking starting a business and chasing the entrepreneurial dream. 

These folks are what make America great and they should be thanked for their efforts. If you have that drive to start a business or want to discuss your ideas, contact us at The SEED Center Business Incubator.