Business Forward has organized hundreds of briefings across the country on technology and innovation, collecting recommendations from local business leaders on a range of issues, from how to protect IP to helping small businesses use the internet to find new markets. These six issues stand out.

Artificial Intelligence. We work with several of America’s most respected tech companies to help start-ups and small businesses take advantage of new AI tools to reduce their operating costs, open new markets, and improve their products and services. We are also helping both parties work with federal, state, and local policymakers on how to assure AI tools are used responsibly.

Broadband access. Broadband access is critical to economic opportunity. In fact, gaining access to broadband correlates with a $2,200 per year boost to household income. More than 19 million Americans living in rural areas lack broadband access, and pockets of our cities are being left behind. Our businesses, schools and libraries need access to broadband wherever they are in order to compete.

Data privacy. The collection and use of data has powered our digital economy and America’s continued leadership in technology. As data collection grows, new policies and standards must promote appropriate uses of data that enable innovative, low-cost services without violating consumer privacy.

Cybersecurity. Too often, small businesses are targeted with viruses, ransomware or scams. Policymakers and law enforcers should make protecting small businesses from hackers, international crooks and identity thieves a priority. Our Small Business Digital Alliance, co-founded with the Small Business Administration and several of America’s leading tech companies, provides free online cyber security tools for start-ups and small businesses. 

Net neutrality. The best way to ensure an open and vital internet is to prevent network operators from interfering with traffic to favor data from some sites or applications over others. With net neutrality, companies operating at the “edge” of the network are more likely to invest in distance learning, telemedicine, media streaming, and other new, data-intensive businesses.