Dear Editor: Wisconsin’s growing economy depends on small businesses being able to connect with our customers in this modern, digital world.
I founded Racine-based Ashe Woodworking because I love using quality craftsmanship to bring people’s visions to life. But my business model, like many others, relies on digital advertising. Digital marketing allows small businesses like mine to reach local homeowners around southern Wisconsin and share our work through photos, videos and promotions. With just a swipe or a tap, people can discover our business and see how we can help bring their vision to life. Affordable search, social, streaming and even AI-powered tools help small businesses grow efficiently.
We’re not alone. Nearly 500,000 small businesses make up more than 99% of all businesses in Wisconsin, employing over 1.2 million people. These businesses rely on effective, affordable digital advertising to compete and grow. When access to these tools is limited or costs increase, small businesses feel the impact first.
That’s why smart privacy policy matters. Small businesses support strong privacy protections for consumers, but we also need clear, workable rules. As Wisconsin considers a state data privacy law, Congress should move forward with a national privacy standard that protects consumers while shielding small businesses from conflicting out-of-state regulations, rising compliance costs and a confusing patchwork of laws.
At a time when families are already coping with higher prices, policies that increase the cost of advertising only make it harder for small businesses to succeed.
Jordan Karweik, Founder of Ashe Woodworking, Racine, WI