Elliot Richardson is no stranger to hard work or frustration with the status quo. As the president and co-founder of the Small Business Advocacy Council (SBAC), Elliot has turned years of frustration into a driving force for change, creating a platform that amplifies the voices of small business owners. Her journey into advocacy began not with an easy win, but with a hard lesson: running for office doesn’t always mean victory—but it does mean gaining invaluable insight into what’s broken and how to fix it.

Growing up in Morton Grove and raising her family in Deerfield, Elliot’s roots in Illinois run deep. Her legal background gave her the tools to navigate the complexities of public policy, but it was her empathy for small business owners that propelled her to create the SBAC. Elliot recalls, “We heard a lot about small businesses being the backbone of the economy, but there was a lot of lip service and not much action. That had to change.”

The SBAC began as a way to give small business owners a seat at the table, a voice in the room, and a chance to advocate for themselves. Elliot emphasizes that this wasn’t just about business owners but the larger “small business community”—employees, vendors, and local collaborators who depend on these enterprises. “If we can harness critical mass, we can really move the needle for small businesses,” she explains.

Under Elliot’s leadership, the SBAC has delivered tangible results. From lowering LLC fees in Illinois to advocating for increased tax credits for hiring formerly incarcerated individuals, these wins represent more than policy shifts—they’re lifelines for entrepreneurs. Elliot beams when recounting the success of the SBAC’s initiative to stabilize health insurance premiums. “That’s not just good policy; it’s transformative for small business owners and their employees.”

One of the most significant challenges Elliot identifies for entrepreneurs is undercapitalization. “You’ve got to get your financing in line and prepare for the unexpected,” she advises. Starting a business isn’t just about passion—it’s about timing, preparation, and having the right formula. Elliot insists that this preparation is critical: “You need that cushion to weather the surprises because there will be surprises.”

Beyond advocacy, Elliot’s wisdom shines in her perspective on collaboration. “Small businesses don’t have the resources of big corporations, but that doesn’t mean we can’t work together. The key is finding ways to level the playing field while fostering collaboration.” Initiatives like reallocating state tax incentives to small businesses demonstrate her commitment to ensuring fairness without alienating larger companies.

Elliot also stresses the importance of networking. For her, effective networking isn’t about attending every event—it’s about intentionality. “Ask your mentors where to go and make the most of your time. Join groups that align with your goals and values.” She adds that the SBAC fosters connections not just for advocacy but for business collaboration, creating opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow together.

For Elliot, advocacy isn’t just work—it’s a calling. She believes in showing up, whether it’s in Springfield or at a local chamber meeting. “Big corporations have their lobbyists, and now we’re there too. It’s about being present and making sure small businesses aren’t overlooked.”

Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs? “Get involved. Advocate for the changes you want to see. Barriers won’t fall unless we work together to remove them.” It’s this relentless focus on collaboration, fairness, and empowerment that makes Elliot Richardson a force for change in Illinois and beyond.