Kansas Common Sense: Talking Startup Act at SXSW in Austin

Statement

On Sunday, I joined technology leaders, startups and tech enthusiasts at the 19th Annual SXSW Interactive Conference in Austin, Texas. This annual multi-day conference features presentations from some of the leaders in emerging technology, as well as special programs showcasing the best new websites, applications, and startup ideas. I was honored to be invited to host a panel discussion called "Startup Act: Encouraging Innovation and Empowering Entrepreneurs," during which I shared my thoughts about why Congress should act on my proposal the Startup Act and the urgency of capitalizing on the unique attention policymakers are currently giving to startups.

Startups are an important part of the American economy. Over the past three decades, companies less than five years old have accounted for nearly all net job creation in the United States. Yet, recent data on startups indicate that the startup engine is slowing down, as new businesses hire fewer employees than in the past. To revive the startup engine and jump-start the economy, I joined Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.) in introduced legislation called the Startup Act.

The Startup Act is based on a simple premise: the easier it is for creative individuals to take risks and start a business, the more jobs will be created. The Startup Act incorporates key recommendations made by President's Council on Jobs and Competitiveness, the Kauffman Foundation, and entrepreneurs across the country.

The Startup Act outlines a five-prong approach to job creation based on the proven track record of entrepreneurs. My proposal will reduce regulatory burdens, help startups attract and retain capital so they can grow, accelerate the commercialization of research so more new ideas reach the marketplace, keep entrepreneurial talent in America, and encourage pro-growth state and local policies. It has been endorsed by Steve Case, one of America's best-known and most accomplished entrepreneurs and philanthropists. Under Steve's leadership as Chairman and CEO, AOL became the world's largest and most valuable Internet company. The Startup Act has also been endorsed by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA); the Information Technology & Innovation Foundation (ITIF); and the Computer & Communications Industry Association (CCIA). Thanks again to Steve Case for participating in my panel in Austin and for the very kind introduction. Click here to learn more about the Startup Act.

While in Austin, I also had an opportunity to meet with Kansas entrepreneurs attending SXSW. Kansans on hand included: Naithan Jones of Prairie Village and Jacob McDaniel, co-founders of AgLocal; Sarah Gambach and Dan Carroll of Leap2; and Kyle Johnson, CEO & Founder of AudioAnywhere.

Prior to my Austin trip, I visited with the popular technology policy blog TechDirt to share my thoughts about various topics, including my opposition to the PROTECT IP Act and the Stop Online Piracy Act., as well as the Startup Act. I believe Congress can do more to enable Americans to start new companies and develop new products and services. Congress also has a responsibility of maintain an environment of innovation.

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