Young, Cantwell Introduce Bill to Help Small Businesses Succeed in Digital Economy

Friday, January 9, 2026 at 6:00 PM

Last week U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) introduced the AI for Mainstreet Act, legislation that would provide training, guidance, and support to American small businesses choosing to evaluate and implement artificial intelligence (AI).

The Small Business Administration established Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) nationwide to provide support and training to American small businesses. The AI for Mainstreet Act would expand the support and training from SBDCs regarding AI, including how to utilize AI to streamline business functions and operations, better plan for unexpected circumstances, protect data and intellectual property, and improve cybersecurity.

“Our bill will provide training, guidance, and support to ensure more American small businesses are equipped with the tools needed to compete in today’s evolving digital economy,” said Senator Young.

"As artificial intelligence becomes an essential workplace tool, small businesses should not be left behind. This legislation will help provide guidance and training to thousands of Washington small businesses on how they can use AI to help their businesses grow and thrive,” said Senator Cantwell.

U.S. Representatives Mark Alford (R-MO-04) and Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) introduced companion legislation in the House in 2025.

Full text of the legislation can be found here.