Why digital access is the key to survival for Washington’s small businesses | Opinion

Entrepreneurs and small business owners are the backbone of Washington’s economy. However, more than 50 percent of small businesses close within their first year.

While the government offers some assistance, it often is not accessible for startups and rural enterprises. In an increasingly digital world, business owners are turning to online resources to stay afloat.

However, lawmakers must ensure broad access to these digital tools, or risk stifling technological innovation and small business growth across the state.

By 2028, 73 percent of small businesses are projected to be fully remote, underscoring the digital transition. Unfortunately, rural communities in Washington still struggle with inadequate broadband access. Moreover, there are growing concerns that future tech regulations threaten to limit the reliability of social networks and other online platforms required for business operations.

Without access to emerging technologies, entrepreneurs struggle to adapt to new market standards, facing significant barriers to success.

Simply put, the way business is conducted is changing. Business owners must adapt to new standards, and those who can’t navigate this new online landscape are destined to fall behind, making it crucial for small business owners to have barrier-free access to the support they need.

The pandemic proved how crucial connectivity is by permanently changing the way small businesses operate. At Washington Center for Women in Business (WCWB), online operations grew quickly to meet the needs of entrepreneurs in a COVID-19 world. By leveraging modern technology, business owners across the state can pursue their entrepreneurial dreams without the added financial or physical stress.

Prior to digitalization, a Pullman-based business owner would drive over 300 miles to utilize WCWB’s services. Today, because of modern technological solutions, WCWB embodies its name by supporting all Washingtonian women from Seattle to Spokane. By leveraging digital platforms, we serve as a hub for female entrepreneurs throughout Washington’s 71,000 square miles and beyond. Not being bound by location has enabled thousands of women to access these free resources, optimize operations, and secure their business’ success.

Any move by lawmakers to limit internet access or stifle technological innovation poses a direct threat to these vulnerable small business owners that serve as a pillar of the American economy. To ensure that entrepreneurs can continue to pursue the American Dream, it’s essential to support the digitalization and improvement of resources, and protect the technological advancement that make these tools accessible.

Ashley Whitley represents the Washington Center of Women in Business under the Thurston Economic Development Council and Center of Business and Innovation. Her role is to help women launch and thrive in entrepreneurship.

This story was originally published October 13, 2024 at 5:00 AM with the headline "Why digital access is the key to survival for Washington’s small businesses | Opinion."