This month, I wanted to do something a little different. After hearing so many of your stories through our Tell Your Story Campaign, I felt inspired to share my own as it pertains to the world of sustainability - my family business started by my great-grandfather. It was through his legacy that I first saw what it meant to build something with purpose and to care for a community.
Small businesses like yours continue to inspire me every day, and I hope my story reminds you just how powerful yours is too.
TAKE NOTE & TAKE ACTION
Take Note
Mark Your Calendar: Business, Policy, and Purpose Conference
Join us October 21-23, 2025, for ASBN’s Business, Policy and Purpose: The Business of Democracy – an actionable 3-day virtual conference (12-2:30 PM ET + optional networking opportunities daily)designed to mobilize local business voices and prepare leaders to vote their values in state and local elections.
Through keynotes, interactive breakouts, and powerful storytelling, we’ll spotlight how businesses can drive democratic resilience, champion inclusive economic policies, and build community power.
What We’ll Explore
Day 1 | Driving Impact: Business as a Force for Democratic Resilience
Day 2 | Policy and Advocacy: Rewriting the Rules for an Inclusive Economy
Day 3 | Purpose in Practice: Building Community Power and Collective Action
What you'll gain:
🗳️ Strategies to engage meaningfully in local elections
🤝 Connections with other purpose-driven business leaders
📊 Tools to align your business values with civic action
🎯 Framework for responsible community influence
💡 Insights on navigating business-civic intersections
Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or emerging business leader, this three-day event will equip you to leverage your influence responsibly while building coalitions that drive positive change in your community.
Don't miss this opportunity to connect with like-minded leaders who believe business can be a force for democratic good.
ASBN Impact Forum Winner Spotlight: Making A Sweet Impact 🍫
Need another reason to register for ASBN’s Fall Business, Policy, and Purpose conference? We love giving away prizes!
Here’s what winner Natalia Crosby, Director of Client Services at J Sherman Studio, had to say about why she joined the Impact Forum, what she learned, and how she felt when she received the news that she won 4 boxes of Tony’s Chocolonely bars:
“As a purpose-driven design studio, we’re all about making big ideas more accessible and impactful. And building a business with heart means finding your people—the ones who care just as deeply as you do. That’s why I joined the Impact Forum: to learn and be a part of the bigger picture. And wow—it delivered! From thoughtful insights to unexpected treats (hello, dreamy chocolates!), this community has reminded me that impact is always sweeter when it’s shared. Thank you for welcoming me in!”
In case you missed the Impact Forum, you can watch the recording here.
ASBN is profoundly disappointed by the House of Representatives’ recent passage of H.R. 1—labeled the One Big Beautiful Bill. This legislation represents a sweeping and deeply misguided rollback of policies that have been foundational to the clean energy transition, worker protections, and broader efforts to build a just and regenerative economy.
In addition to devastating cuts to essential social programs like Medicaid and food assistance, H.R. 1 includes drastic and damaging changes to clean energy tax credits. It threatens to dismantle much of the progress made under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which catalyzed over $500 billion in new private investment, supported the creation of approximately 400,000 clean energy jobs, and laid the groundwork for revitalizing American manufacturing in key sectors such as electric vehicles, batteries, and solar panel production. The bill is being debated in the Senate. Please contact your representatives today!
🚨 Defending DEI and Free Enterprise
Our membership and advocacy affiliate, the American Sustainable Business Council (ASBC), is proud to stand among 28 organizations - including 12 ASBN members - in an amicus brief urging the court to uphold employers’ rights to to pursue lawful, forward-looking diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices without fear of intimidation.
These organizations are urging the U.S. Court of Appeals to uphold an injunction against Trump’s executive orders attacking DEIA programs.
Proposed Cuts Target Climate and Clean Energy Programs
House Republicans have advanced a reconciliation bill that would, among many harmful changes, threaten Americans’ access to healthcare and food assistance programs and gut key climate and clean energy provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act. The proposed changes, packed with unworkable sourcing mandates and repeals of clean energy tax credits, could derail progress on domestic manufacturing, energy affordability, and emissions reductions.
ASBN has raised the alarm about these threats, and we’re monitoring developments closely as this bill moves to the Senate.
We are excited to announce our newest ASBC Board member, Richard Eidlin! Richard has worked at the intersection of sustainable business, public policy, and advocacy for 35+ years. He has helped establish several influential organizations, including the American Sustainable Business Council, the International Council of Local Environmental Initiatives, Business for America, and the United Nations Environmental Finance Initiative. Richard has worked in the private, public, academic, and nonprofit sectors and led advocacy campaigns for businesses on sustainable economy, voting rights, democracy, and clean energy/environmental issues. Please join us in welcoming Richard back to ASBC!
ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Our newly reformatted engagement opportunities ensure that wherever you are in your advocacy journey, there’s a place for you. Watch the video below to hear the latest updates from ASBN’s team of topic experts, and become a member to get involved!
VIP Opportunity for Indigenous-Led Small Businesses: Join the SLAP™ Program!
This partnership between Silver Lining, Wells Fargo, and the American Sustainable Business Network (ASBN) isexclusively for Indigenous-led small businesses and enterprises.
Together, we’ve secured 147 dedicated spots in the acclaimed SLAP™ Program (Silver Lining Action Plan)—a year-long, tech-enabled, business behavior change-based system built to help Indigenous small business owners become more profitable, sustainable, and impactful.
This opportunity is open to ASBN members and non-members. However, ASBN members whose business is Indigenous-led may be eligible for priority consideration—your application could be fast-tracked. Not a member? Join today!
Interested in getting involved?! Become a member today! ASBN members get exclusive access to monthly policy briefs, steering committees, and quarterly amplifier calls to amplify the collective voice of business and boost your impact!
Contact our Member Team to learn about engagement opportunities and other membership benefits.
🤝 ASBN x ISSP: Partnering for a Just and Regenerative Future
We’re excited to announce our partnership with the International Society of Sustainability Professionals (ISSP)! This collaboration brings together our aligned communities, dedicated to advancing sustainability and building a just, regenerative economy. By working together, we are expanding the reach of mission-aligned programming, sharing critical knowledge and resources, and amplifying our collective impact. We aim to empower the business community with the tools and insights you need to create a lasting impact.
We’re excited for what’s ahead with ISSP as a partner in this work. Become an ASBN member today for all the ASBN member benefits, now while also connecting with ISSP! ASBN members can attend ASBN’s amplifier, steering committee and policy brief calls as well as ISSP networking events. ASBN members will also gain access to ISSP working sessions and recorded webinars covering various aspects of sustainability implementation within your organization.
Join Our Advocacy Update Webinar: Supporting the Safer Choice Program
We're excited to invite you to an important informational webinar about our collective work to preserve the Safer Choice Program, which has played a crucial role in growing the market for safer, healthier consumer products.
🛡️ Supporting the Safer Choice Program: Advocacy Update Webinar
🗓 June 10, 2025
🕒 12:00 PM ET | 💻 Webinar
This informational session will provide updates on the latest developments regarding the Program, discuss next steps, and invite you to stay connected to our efforts in the coming months as we navigate this fluid federal environment and rapidly evolving Administration priorities.
Open to anyone passionate about safer consumer products and chemical policy, especially:
New Investor Resource & Webinar:Helping Individuals Navigate CDFI Investment Opportunities
ASBN is pleased to announce the publication of Helping Individuals Navigate CDFI Investment Opportunitiesby Tern Strategies and Stepping Stone Partners. This briefing for mission-driven investors and investment advisors identifies 99 community development financial institutions (CDFIs) across 36 states that accept investments from individual investors or issue investment note offerings for mission-driven investors. This trailblazing report provides guidance for investors to support local economies through investment in CDFIs.
Join authors Liz Rogers and Pam Porter for a webinar co-hosted by ASBN on June 24 at 1 pm ET!
Join authors Liz Rogers and Pam Porter from Tern Strategies and Stepping Stone Partners for insights on supporting local economies through CDFI investments.
Perfect for:
✔️ Mission-driven investors
✔️ Investment advisors
✔️ Community development practitioners
📝 Register now to learn how to make impactful investments in your community.
We’re excited to spread the word about the Next Economy MBA by our friends at LIFT Economy. Join this nine-month course designed to equip social impact leaders with the tools they need to help create an equitable, inclusive, and regenerative economy.
The early 20% bird discount ends August 11th; ASBN members get an additional 10%.
All in the business community are welcome, especially those who are:
Impact entrepreneurs
Starting or growing cooperative enterprises
Interested in transitioning to steward ownership structures
Working in or intending to start a worker self-directed nonprofit enterprise
Help Protect ENERGY STAR — A Vital Tool for Businesses & Families
ENERGY STAR is more than a label—it’s a trusted, cost-saving program that has helped U.S. families and businesses save over $500 billion in energy costs and avoid 5 trillion kilowatt-hours of electricity use.
Now, this vital public-private partnership is at risk. The Administration is considering efforts to scale back or dismantle the EPA’s ENERGY STAR program, threatening small and mid-sized businesses, consumer trust, and U.S. leadership in clean energy innovation.
ASBN is taking action, and we invite you to join us in urging the EPA to protect and strengthen this critical program.
Federal policy changes are hitting businesses hard—tell your story
We want to hear from ASBN members how these policy changes, both planned and implemented, impact your businesses, your employees, and your community. By speaking out, you can help shape smarter policy, strengthen cross-sector solidarity, and advance a stakeholder-driven economy rooted in sustainability and equity.
May Policy Forum Recap: Understanding Waters of the U.S. and the Clean Water Act
In a recent ASBN Policy Forum, members examined the implications of the Sackett v. EPA decision on clean water protections—and what may come next. The Supreme Court ruling significantly narrowed the scope of the Clean Water Act, jeopardizing up to 95% of wetlands and millions of stream miles that are essential for drinking water, flood resilience, and local economies. Now, the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers are considering additional regulatory rollbacks that could further weaken federal safeguards. ASBN, in partnership with the Clean Water for All Coalition, is working to ensure that business voices are heard. Through testimony, comment submissions, and direct engagement, we’re underscoring a vital truth: clean water is not just an environmental issue—it’s a business imperative.
Policy Forums are members-only. Not a member? You can still get involved:
June 25 Policy Forum: Solar at a Crossroads - Navigating Tax Credits, Tariffs & Your Bottom Line
With the future of clean energy on the line, changing federal energy tax credits and solar tariffs are beginning to reshape the financial landscape for businesses. Don’t miss out—register today for next week’s The Policy Forum: Solar at a Crossroads - Navigating Tax Credits, Tariffs & Your Bottom Line with Pennsylvania Sustainable Business Network (PASBN) Director Lou Tierno as host, and expert guests from across the solar and policy landscape.
We’ll unpack how recent federal shifts are affecting solar ROI, what new tariffs mean for supply chains and costs, and how businesses—large and small—can advocate for a smarter, cleaner energy future. Don’t miss this exclusive ASBN member opportunity to ask your questions and stay informed about the policy decisions that could define the next decade of clean energy growth.
Members, 📆 Join us on June 25 at 1 p.m. ET. Not a member? Join today.
Stay Connected & Make an Impact! Follow ASBN on social media for the latest updates and opportunities for sustainable business to drive a just and regenerative economy. Engage with our posts, share your voice, and help amplify the movement. Now more than ever, collective action matters—join us today!
NEWS, STORIES & OPPORTUNITIES
CASE UPDATE
The case to challenge Texas’ business blacklist law is approaching an important hearing on June 18, when a court will consider arguments in support of our motion for summary judgment as well as the State’s motion to dismiss the case.
The June 18 hearing will be held virtually and will allow both sides to make arguments regarding the State’s motion to dismiss and the parties' cross motions for summary judgment.
Defending Clean Water: ASBC Speaks Up for Strong Clean Water Protections at Federal Listening Session
Liza LaManna, Manager of Agriculture Policy and Water, was one of the few voices speaking in favor of strong clean water protections during a recent federal listening session hosted by the EPA, Army, and SBA. She urged the agencies to maintain the current WOTUS rule, highlighting the economic value of wetlands, the risks to supply chains, and the broad support among small businesses for clean water safeguards.
Liza also amplified the voices of diverse small businesses and was asked to share more stories from the field. As polluters and land developers push a different narrative, it’s critical that the sustainable business community continues to speak up. Read ASBN’s full statement to learn more about how rollbacks to clean water protections threaten economic resilience.
If clean water is vital to your business or community, now is the time to raise your voice. Please tell your story and reach out to Liza at [email protected] to join the Clean Water Steering Committee and drive change.
The Hill | ASBN Senior Advisor, Michael Green:Defunding Energy Star will harm small businesses and US competitiveness | May 31, 2025 | Michael Green, an ASBN Senior Advisor on Climate and Energy Policy, wrote an Op-Ed on how the recent announcement by the administration to defund the Energy Star program directly impacts operational costs, performance consistency, and market competitiveness for small businesses. Read his statement to learn more about why the elimination of this program is bad for business and bad for consumers.
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette | Natural gas isn’t southwestern Pa.’s future | May 29, 2025 | PASBN Director Lou Tierno III recently published an op-ed in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette pushing back on a proposed methane-powered plant in Washington County. The piece calls for a clean energy alternative that aligns with Pennsylvania’s climate goals and highlights the economic risks of doubling down on fossil fuel infrastructure. We’re proud to see PASBN’s voice helping shape the public dialogue around sustainability, innovation, and regional development.
Marketplace | The latest tariff pause is good news for supply chains — but turbulence remains | May 13, 2025 | Businesses from ASBN’s #TellYourStory campaign were recently featured on Marketplace. Sabri Ben-Achour highlighted the voices of Heather Bickford (Chief Operating Officer of Death by Audio), Chris Overholt (President and Founder of Namu Baru, Inc.), and Jennifer Luna (Owner of Curious Bear Toy & Bookshop). The recording covers how the ongoing trade war continues to create uncertainty for business owners, despite lowered rates. We’re proud to have played a role in amplifying these important stories and sharing the business perspective with a broader audience.
Yahoo! News | Small businesses are the backbone of America — but right now, tariffs are breaking their backs | May 7, 2025 | ASBN member John Imes warns that sweeping tariffs are doing real damage to the small businesses that fuel our economy and communities. From supply chain disruptions to rising costs, Main Street is feeling the strain, and Congress needs to act now to end harmful tariffs and restore economic stability for local retailers, producers, and manufacturers nationwide.
Marketplace | ESG Reincarnated | April 23, 2025 | In this episode of Marketplace How We Survive, ASBN member Alex Wright-Gladstein, founder and CEO of Sphere, discusses the powerful role individual retirement savings can play in fighting climate change. Alex shares how shifting investments to climate-friendly funds can be even more impactful than going vegan, driving an EV, or installing solar panels
From Our Knowledge Hub
ASBN Applauds the Reintroduction of the Clean Energy Victory Bond Act | May 1, 2025 | The reintroduction of the Clean Energy Victory Bond Act (H.R. 2946) by Reps. Zoe Lofgren, Doris Matsui, and Sen. Jeff Merkley allows Americans to invest in renewable energy projects through secure, government-backed bonds—supporting clean energy innovation, job creation, and a sustainable economy. We urge Congress to support this bill and encourage all stakeholders to join us in advocating for a cleaner, more sustainable future. Together, we can harness the power of clean energy to build a healthier planet for generations to come.
American Sustainable Business Network Sounds Alarm Over Threats to Inflation Reduction Act | May 13, 2025 | We are deeply concerned by the legislative proposals undergoing markups in the House Ways and Means Committee and the Energy and Commerce Committee. These proposals pose a significant threat to the American economy by dismantling the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), a bipartisan-supported cornerstone policy for America’s sustainable growth, clean energy transition, and domestic manufacturing renaissance. We urge policymakers to reject these damaging proposals and preserve the integrity of the Inflation Reduction Act. Sustained, stable policy is imperative for the long-term investments needed to secure a prosperous and sustainable American future.
📚 Have You Explored Our Knowledge Hub Yet?
ASBN’s Knowledge Hub is growing! Explore free webinars, case studies, and valuable resources for sustainability professionals.
*Members can access exclusive webinar recordings, slides, and industry insights by logging into the member portal.
The views and opinions expressed below do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of ASBN or its staff
ASBC Board Member & Small Business Chamber exec Frank Knapp Jr.: Response to President Trump’s dismissal of China tariffs on small business
On Meet the Press on May 4, 2025, President Trump was asked about the small businesses being hurt by tariffs on China. In response, the President said, “Why do you always mention that, you know that you pick up a couple of little businesses. What about the car business? They are going to make a fortune because of the tariffs…So why don’t you mention the big car industry instead of mentioning somebody doing strollers?” (Meet the Press, 12:16)
“The President of the United States has shown utter disrespect for the small businesses of this country. We employ half of all workers and are responsible for all net new jobs in this nation. Yet, the President only seems to care about how his policies impact big business. Small businesses are being hurt by numerous policies this Administration has put in place. But apparently that is of no consequence to the President. The next time he or someone in his Administration uses the tired old phrase, ‘Small businesses are the backbone of this country’, all of us should remember that the President doesn’t really care about our ‘little business stroller’ class.”
ASBN Members Go Further
Did you know our newsletters reach over 25,000 like-minded subscribers?! Interested in having your updates, articles, or opportunities highlighted here? Become a member today! Contact our team at [email protected].
UPCOMING EVENTS
See all of our upcoming events on the ASBN Events page of our website, and look for an upcoming engagement opportunities email with more detailed information about upcoming events.
Investors Circle (IC) connects “better angels” and other investors with early-stage entrepreneurs leading companies focused on providing financial returns and social and/or environmental impact, fostering a community where profit meets purpose. We welcome investors and other potential members to "Be Our Guest" and visit before making a membership decision.
June 19 Monthly National Virtual Meeting, Noon to 2:00 pm Eastern Time
Special Presentation: Catalyzing a New Economy that Works for Everyone and the Planet. In this thought-provoking session, speakers Fred Keller and Stuart Hart explore how mid-sized, privately held companies—free from the short-term pressures of public markets—can lead the way. As climate change, automation, and economic insecurity challenge the status quo, this presentation introduces Internality, a new initiative designed to empower these businesses to drive systemic and sustainable economic transformation.
We will also have two presentations from early-stage impact investment opportunities with exciting growth and traction.
Please go to our events page and register if you would like to attend this or other IC gatherings.
Please join us on July 16, where we are combining our IC National Virtual Meeting with our Investing Through Philanthropy: Impact Showcase, 2:00-3:30 pm ET, a virtual event spotlighting a powerful new way to fund change. Investors Circle is at the forefront of philanthropic investing—where donor-advised funds (DAFs) fuel bold ventures with real returns. In this meeting you will meet three inspiring founders, two of them members of our sister organization SVN, raising capital through the CataCap platform:
Copyright (C) 2025 American Sustainable Business Network. All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you registered for our communications on our website, participated in an ASBN or partner campaign, attended a webinar or event, are or have been a member, or have communicated with ASBN in some way.
Want to change how you receive these emails? We have two list options! Receive our monthly Leading the Way newsletter for the latest business news for a more sustainable, just and regenerative economy, and stay on our Advocacy Campaign list for the most timely updates, to engage and take action on the latest policies impacting businesses today!
