Congressional Startup Day

Connect with policymakers on your home turf.

Though new businesses are vital to our country’s economic growth, many policymakers may not know about the latest startups in their states and districts and the challenges entrepreneurs face.

Congressional Startup Day, formerly Startup Week Across America, is an opportunity during the annual August congressional recess for senators and representatives to learn more about local startups and discuss the important role entrepreneurs play in communities across the country.

Of course, this isn’t the only time to connect with policymakers. Keep the conversations going year-round to ensure the voices of entrepreneurs are heard.

Contact your legislators to set up a meeting and participate in this bipartisan effort that raises awareness and helps generate support for entrepreneurs across the country:

Find Your Senator

Find Your Representative

Meet with your senator or representative

When making a request for a meeting, ask as far in advance as possible, and be sure to include detailed information, such as:

Audience (who, how many, and from where).
Type (tour, roundtable, speech).
Date and location.
Whether the event is open to the public or private.
Whether media will be invited to attend the meeting.

Follow up, but not too often. When making a request, it’s a good idea to ask the scheduler when you should follow up or expect a response.

After your meeting, let us know who you met with and how it went. Share your photos on social media and tag us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Download the SOE Digital Checklist >