The Right to Start Act
The first-ever Right to Start Act was passed by the Missouri House of Representatives on May 3, 2021.
The Missouri House Bill is the most comprehensive pro-starter legislation introduced in the United States in decades. The bill was approved by a bipartisan vote. It now provides a model for states throughout the nation to promote the growth of new businesses, which create virtually all job growth in America.
This is just the beginning. Each state or city can devise its own Right to Start approach to fit different circumstances, and we have the template to help you get started. Together, we will build a new civic infrastructure to expand entrepreneurial opportunity for everyone.
About The Right to Start Act
The Right to Start Act features policies that lift entrepreneurs, enabling them to create new companies that make jobs, and economic growth that lift communities.
Many of these policy recommendations are revenue-neutral and require little or no additional spending by government entities.
Your state or city can create its own Right to Start Act by combining policies like these:
5% to Start
Shifting public resources from established corporations to emerging entrepreneurs and young businesses. Right to Start recommends shifting 5% of government contracting, workforce development, and/or economic development funds to businesses under five years old.
Banning Noncompetes
Banning noncompete agreements that prevent people from working and creating jobs.
Capital Access
Expanding capital access to fill market gaps by spurring new investors in entrepreneurs.
Office of Entrepreneurship
Creating an Office of Entrepreneurship in your city or state.
Banning Permit Fees
Banning licensing or permit fees for home-based businesses, including children’s lemonade stands.
Adopting the Small Business Borrower’s Bill of Rights on transparent loan disclosure.
Transparent Loan Disclosure
To learn more about Right to Start’s pro-entrepreneur policies, read our Field Guide for Policymakers.
Advocating for The Right to Start Act
Are you interested in advocating for pro-entrepreneur policy in your state or city? Follow the links below to get started.
Read our manifesto and principles to learn more about Right to Start.