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Events

Upcoming Events

More events coming soon!

• • •

Past Events

2022 Events


Democracy on the Ballot: What the 2022 Election Results Mean for Business
Friday, November 18, 1pmET | REGISTER NOW

No “red wave.” Relatively smooth elections. Unexpectedly high Gen Z voter turnout. With a divided Congress coming, what can we expect for state and congressional action for the next 2 years? Join us for an in-depth diagnosis of the surprising 2022 midterm election results and what the business community can expect for the health of our democracy.

Many pundits saw the 2022 midterms as a test for how well our democracy would hold up. Concern was high that hundreds of election deniers would succeed in their bids and political violence would impede election officials. What are we to make of the smooth vote-tallying process, independents’ key role in moving toward the middle, and unexpectedly high turnout among young voters? What can the business community now expect from a Democratic Senate and a (likely) Republican House? Will extremists push to punish “woke” companies, place further restrictions on voting rights, or cause other disruptions? What is the significance of political reforms like ranked-choice voting which will determine who won Alaska’s U.S. Senate race?

Join us for an insightful hour of discussion with four of the nation’s sharpest political thinkers about what the new political reality means for the business community, the odds of bipartisanship to solve economic challenges, and the health of our democracy.

Speakers
Amb. Norm Eisen, Sr Fellow, The Brookings Institution & Co-founder States United Democracy Center
Brad Fitch, CEO, Congressional Management Foundation
Lucy Caldwell, Senior Advisor, Forward Party

• • •

PA Election Debrief:
Impact of the Midterm Election on Pennsylvania's Business Climate and Health of our Democracy
November 15 | Video coming soon!

The results of the November election will have a consequential impact on the health of the state’s economy and democracy. The full time state legislature, already known as a highly partisan body, may become even less able to address the state’s various economic and social challenges. Business for America and our Back to Business campaign brought together a diverse panel to discuss how contentious issues as election security, vote by mail, infrastructure investment, and workforce development could be handled.Dan Pearson (Philadelphia Inquirer), Lara Putnam (University of Pittsburg), and Carol Kuniholm (Fair Districts PA joined our PA Policy Director Aizaz Gill to share their views on how the state of politics in PA may influence the Commonwealth’s ability to retain its competitive edge and attract industry. Above all, they uniformly stressed the importance of collaboration among lawmakers on issues that are important to Pennsylvanians.

•••

The National Business Response to the Florida "Stop WOKE" Act
November 2 | Full Webinar Video

Political and legal experts gathered to discuss how Florida's HB 7, the Stop Wrongs to Our Kids and Employees (WOKE) Act and how the law violates employers' free speech rights while impacting efforts in DE&I. BFA and panelists expressed how the legislation censors ideas contrary to government officials' preferred narratives, and disregards federal anti-discrimination laws. In this webinar, you will learn about the next steps in the lawsuit led by Protect Democracy, implications for other states, and steps business can take to respond - both in Florida, and in states where similar legislation could be introduced in the future. Speakers included Chris Miller (Ben & Jerry's), Shalini Goel Agarwal (Protect Democracy), Geoffrey Kabaservice (Brennan Center), and BFA founder Sarah Bonk.

You can also read our blog post capturing key insights and quotes from the event.

•••

Fixing Outmoded Election Laws for Business and the Economy
September 13 | Full Webinar Video

Fixing our outmoded election laws is not partisan; it is critical for business and the economy. Due to loopholes in poorly written election laws, including the Failed Election Law of 1845 and the Electoral Count Act of 1887, there is a real risk that two candidates could claim the presidency, that Congress would be unable to make a determination, and a constitutional crisis would ensue. That’s what almost happened on January 6th, 2021 when rioters stormed the capital.

Whether you are a Republican, Democrat, Independent, or member of another party, we need a stable democracy in which everyone agrees on the rules. It is in the interest of the business community to prevent the crisis that could occur in the event of a disputed election. The Electoral Count Reform Reform Act (ECRA) has been introduced by a bipartisan group of senators. We need the business community to step up and support their efforts before the 2022 elections so that we can avoid the potential risk to our government and economy in 2024.

Speakers:
Daniella Ballou-Aares (Leadership Now Project)
Sarah Bonk (Business for America)
Chris Crawford (Protect Democracy)Larry Diamond (Stanford)
Richard Eidlin (Business for America)
Ned Foley (Ohio State University)
Didi Kuo (Stanford)
Mike Otten (Reform Elections Now)Rick Pildes (NYU)Peter Siris (Reform Elections Now)
Robin Weaver (Women’s National Republican Club)(Moderator)

•••

Securing Your Vote: Business Briefing on PA Election Operations with Acting Secretary of the Commonwealth Leigh Chapman
September 12 | Full Webinar Video

The Pennsylvania Business community has an essential role to play in the November 2022 General Election. Acting Secretary of the Commonwealth Leigh Chapman briefed the PA business community on her department's efforts for November 2022, and how we can maximize the engagement of employees, customers, and community members in the next election.

Ms. Chapman reiterated the importance of business leaders to be trusted sources of information before, during, and after elections. She shared the steps state and county officials are taking to account for the large number of expected mail-in ballots, report the results in a timely manner, and make sure the security systems are in place to guarantee that every valid ballot is counted. The goal, as Ms. Chapman explained, is to administer the election in a way so that the results are widely trusted.

•••

The Urgent Need for Civics Education: New Hampshire Business Briefing
August 30 | Full Webinar Video

Presented by the New Hampshire Businesses for Social Responsibility and Business for America, this webinar focused on building support for the Civics Secures Democracy Act (CSDA), (S.879 / H.R. 1814). The bipartisan bill would authorize $1 billion annually over five years, primarily to states and school districts, to enhance civics education in K-12.

Panelists included New Hampshire educators and small businesses leaders who discussed the business case for civics education, the state of Civics Education in NH, local efforts to improve and increase civics education, and the importance of the legislation to the community and businesses.

•••

Business Briefing on New Legislation for Electoral Reform & Election Protection
July 25 | Webinar

After months of bipartisan negotiation, Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Joe Manchin (D-WV) introduced legislation to modernize the 135-year-old Electoral Count Act (ECA), ensure the orderly transition of presidential power, improve election security, and protect election workers.

Mike Wakefield, senior counsel to Senator Collins, and Ryan Murguia, chief counsel to Senator Manchin, joined Business for America and the business community to discuss two new Senate bills: 1) Electoral Count Reform & Presidential Transition Improvement Act, and 2) Enhanced Election Security & Protection Act.

Mike and Ryan have been coordinating Senator Collins’ and Manchin's bipartisan working group on this legislation. In our blog post about the briefing, you can read about key provisions of both bills and ways that the business community can support their passage, including signing our business letter to congress. Business for America invites your company to join our effort to urge congressional action, thus helping ensure the peaceful transition of power in future presidential elections.

•••

January 6 Committee Hearings - What Can Business Expect?
June 7 | Webinar

On June 9, the bipartisan House Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol began a series of at least eight public hearings, including some in prime time. Members have been warned to "brace for more bombshells" in advance of the hearings.

BFA held an advanced briefing on what can we, the public, can expect to learn, as well as the implications for the business community. Understanding who organized and paid for the attack — both in- and outside government roles — has implications for national security, the rule of law, and economic stability.

Speakers included Norman Eisen, Senior Fellow, Governance Studies at The Brookings Institution, Tom Coleman, former U.S. congressman from Missouri, Didi Kuo, Associate Director for Research at Stanford University's Center on Democracy, Development, and the Rule of Law, and Kristy Parker Counsel at Protect Democracy.

You can watch the full video of the briefing here.

•••

Congressional Black Caucus Briefing on the Voting Rights Act
May 19 | Webinar

Vince Evans, Executive Director of the Congressional Black Caucus, along with Joe Grant, Deputy Executive Director of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators spoke in a private briefing to the business community about a renewed effort to protect voting rights through a revised Voting Rights Act.

• • •

The Impact of Corporate Political Spending on Democracy
May 17 | Webinar

In a post-January 6 world, the business community is wrestling with how corporate political spending may have a detrimental effect on our representative democracy. According to Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), just 85 of the 249 companies and industry groups that committed to withhold political contributions to the “Sedition Caucus” after January 6 have kept them. And the number is dropping.

CREW has been at the forefront of studying corporate political money, and their work gained increased interest following the events at the U.S. Capitol. Their recent report highlights the companies that have kept their vows to suspend corporate political donations to the 147 members of Congress who voted not to certify the 2020 presidential election.

On May 17th, BFA hosted a briefing on the risks of corporate political spending and how businesses can take positive action, featuring speakers from CREW and the Erb Institute's Corporate Political Responsibility Taskforce at the University of Michigan. Learn more about the report and insights on corporate political spending on our blog.

• • •

Time to Vote: Maximizing Employee Civic Engagement in 2022
April 28 | Webinar

No employee should have to choose between voting and earning a paycheck. The Time to Vote project continues to mobilize businesses to help more Americans to vote in 2022, while also contributing to the national culture shift needed to increase voter participation. With nearly 2000 companies joining the effort, the momentum must continue to ensure the highest turnout in midterm election history.

BFA hosted an event for Hims & Hers, Legacy Vacation Resorts, Patagonia, and PayPal where they shared their reasons for making their civic commitments, as well as strategies for boosting employee engagement and participation.

 • • •

Civic Education: An Effective Way to Strengthen Our Democracy
April 14 | Webinar

On April 14th, BFA was joined by iCivics Executive Director Louise Dube´, Indiana Bar Foundation President & CEO Chuck Dunlap, and Allstate Corporation SVP for Government & Industry Relations, Jerry Zimmerman, to discuss the importance of civics education and their support for the Civics Secures Democracy Act (CSDA (S.879 / H.R.1814). The bipartisan bill would authorize $1 billion annually over five years, primarily to states and school districts, to enhance civics education in K-12.

“Civic engagement is the oxygen of our democracy and free enterprise, and corporations thrive when we have free enterprise,” said Allstate’s Zimmerman. “It’s interesting how over the past number of years, as people lose trust in our government, which I say goes hand-in-glove being uninformed about civics, they put more trust in corporations… They expect businesses to be more engaged in these types of matters and to make our communities and country better. Allstate knows that a more educated public is good for our business and country.”

Watch the webinar video in full.
Read our blog post capturing quotes and insights from the event.

• • •

PA Election Reform: Why Business Should Care
Feb 2 | Webinar

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is at a crossroads. State lawmakers are pushing to make it harder to vote, expensive and unnecessary audits of the 2022 election are continuing, partisan gerrymandering risks making PA politics event more volatile, and a law permitting Pennsylvanians no-excuse mail-in voting has been ruled unconstitutional by a lower court. The Getting Back to Business Campaign held a timely discussion with businesses and employers that desire an accountable state government that focuses on economic improvements instead of political schemes.

Speakers: Ethan Demme (CEO, Demme Learning), Susan Gobreski (Director, Government Policy, PA League of Women Voters), Elizabeth Howard (Senior Counsel for Democracy, the Brennan Center for Justice) Jabari Jones (President, West Philadelphia Corridor Collaborative)

• • •

PA Election Debrief:
Impact of the Midterm Election on Pennsylvania's Business Climate and Health of our Democracy

November 15 | Video coming soon!

The results of the November election will have a consequential impact on the health of the state’s economy and democracy. The full time state legislature, already known as a highly partisan body, may become even less able to address the state’s various economic and social challenges. Business for America and our Back to Business campaign brought together a diverse panel to discuss how contentious issues as election security, vote by mail, infrastructure investment, and workforce development could be handled.

Dan Pearson (Philadelphia Inquirer), Lara Putnam (University of Pittsburg), and Carol Kuniholm (Fair Districts PA joined our PA Policy Director Aizaz Gill to share their views on how the state of politics in PA may influence the Commonwealth’s ability to retain its competitive edge and attract industry. Above all, they uniformly stressed the importance of collaboration among lawmakers on issues that are important to Pennsylvanians.

•••

The National Business Response to the Florida "Stop WOKE" Act
November 2 | Full Webinar Video

Political and legal experts gathered to discuss how Florida's HB 7, the Stop Wrongs to Our Kids and Employees (WOKE) Act and how the law violates employers' free speech rights while impacting efforts in DE&I. BFA and panelists expressed how the legislation censors ideas contrary to government officials' preferred narratives, and disregards federal anti-discrimination laws. In this webinar, you will learn about the next steps in the lawsuit led by Protect Democracy, implications for other states, and steps business can take to respond - both in Florida, and in states where similar legislation could be introduced in the future. Speakers included Chris Miller (Ben & Jerry's), Shalini Goel Agarwal (Protect Democracy), Geoffrey Kabaservice (Brennan Center), and BFA founder Sarah Bonk.

You can also read our blog post capturing key insights and quotes from the event.

•••

Fixing Outmoded Election Laws for Business and the Economy
September 13 | Full Webinar Video

Fixing our outmoded election laws is not partisan; it is critical for business and the economy. Due to loopholes in poorly written election laws, including the Failed Election Law of 1845 and the Electoral Count Act of 1887, there is a real risk that two candidates could claim the presidency, that Congress would be unable to make a determination, and a constitutional crisis would ensue. That’s what almost happened on January 6th, 2021 when rioters stormed the capital.

Whether you are a Republican, Democrat, Independent, or member of another party, we need a stable democracy in which everyone agrees on the rules. It is in the interest of the business community to prevent the crisis that could occur in the event of a disputed election. The Electoral Count Reform Reform Act (ECRA) has been introduced by a bipartisan group of senators. We need the business community to step up and support their efforts before the 2022 elections so that we can avoid the potential risk to our government and economy in 2024.

Speakers:
Daniella Ballou-Aares (Leadership Now Project)
Sarah Bonk (Business for America)
Chris Crawford (Protect Democracy)Larry Diamond (Stanford)
Richard Eidlin (Business for America)
Ned Foley (Ohio State University)
Didi Kuo (Stanford)
Mike Otten (Reform Elections Now)Rick Pildes (NYU)Peter Siris (Reform Elections Now)
Robin Weaver (Women’s National Republican Club)(Moderator)

•••

Securing Your Vote: Business Briefing on PA Election Operations with Acting Secretary of the Commonwealth Leigh Chapman
September 12 | Full Webinar Video

The Pennsylvania Business community has an essential role to play in the November 2022 General Election. Acting Secretary of the Commonwealth Leigh Chapman briefed the PA business community on her department's efforts for November 2022, and how we can maximize the engagement of employees, customers, and community members in the next election.

Ms. Chapman reiterated the importance of business leaders to be trusted sources of information before, during, and after elections. She shared the steps state and county officials are taking to account for the large number of expected mail-in ballots, report the results in a timely manner, and make sure the security systems are in place to guarantee that every valid ballot is counted. The goal, as Ms. Chapman explained, is to administer the election in a way so that the results are widely trusted.

•••

The Urgent Need for Civics Education: New Hampshire Business Briefing
August 30 | Full Webinar Video

Presented by the New Hampshire Businesses for Social Responsibility and Business for America, this webinar focused on building support for the Civics Secures Democracy Act (CSDA), (S.879 / H.R. 1814). The bipartisan bill would authorize $1 billion annually over five years, primarily to states and school districts, to enhance civics education in K-12.

Panelists included New Hampshire educators and small businesses leaders who discussed the business case for civics education, the state of Civics Education in NH, local efforts to improve and increase civics education, and the importance of the legislation to the community and businesses.

•••

Business Briefing on New Legislation for Electoral Reform & Election Protection
July 25 | Webinar

After months of bipartisan negotiation, Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Joe Manchin (D-WV) introduced legislation to modernize the 135-year-old Electoral Count Act (ECA), ensure the orderly transition of presidential power, improve election security, and protect election workers.

Mike Wakefield, senior counsel to Senator Collins, and Ryan Murguia, chief counsel to Senator Manchin, joined Business for America and the business community to discuss two new Senate bills: 1) Electoral Count Reform & Presidential Transition Improvement Act, and 2) Enhanced Election Security & Protection Act.

Mike and Ryan have been coordinating Senator Collins’ and Manchin's bipartisan working group on this legislation. In our blog post about the briefing, you can read about key provisions of both bills and ways that the business community can support their passage, including signing our business letter to congress. Business for America invites your company to join our effort to urge congressional action, thus helping ensure the peaceful transition of power in future presidential elections.

•••

January 6 Committee Hearings - What Can Business Expect?
June 7 | Webinar

On June 9, the bipartisan House Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol began a series of at least eight public hearings, including some in prime time. Members have been warned to "brace for more bombshells" in advance of the hearings.

BFA held an advanced briefing on what can we, the public, can expect to learn, as well as the implications for the business community. Understanding who organized and paid for the attack — both in- and outside government roles — has implications for national security, the rule of law, and economic stability.

Speakers included Norman Eisen, Senior Fellow, Governance Studies at The Brookings Institution, Tom Coleman, former U.S. congressman from Missouri, Didi Kuo, Associate Director for Research at Stanford University's Center on Democracy, Development, and the Rule of Law, and Kristy Parker Counsel at Protect Democracy.

You can watch the full video of the briefing here.

•••

Congressional Black Caucus Briefing on the Voting Rights Act
May 19 | Webinar

Vince Evans, Executive Director of the Congressional Black Caucus, along with Joe Grant, Deputy Executive Director of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators spoke in a private briefing to the business community about a renewed effort to protect voting rights through a revised Voting Rights Act.

• • •

The Impact of Corporate Political Spending on Democracy
May 17 | Webinar

In a post-January 6 world, the business community is wrestling with how corporate political spending may have a detrimental effect on our representative democracy. According to Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), just 85 of the 249 companies and industry groups that committed to withhold political contributions to the “Sedition Caucus” after January 6 have kept them. And the number is dropping.

CREW has been at the forefront of studying corporate political money, and their work gained increased interest following the events at the U.S. Capitol. Their recent report highlights the companies that have kept their vows to suspend corporate political donations to the 147 members of Congress who voted not to certify the 2020 presidential election.

On May 17th, BFA hosted a briefing on the risks of corporate political spending and how businesses can take positive action, featuring speakers from CREW and the Erb Institute's Corporate Political Responsibility Taskforce at the University of Michigan. Learn more about the report and insights on corporate political spending on our blog.

• • •

Time to Vote: Maximizing Employee Civic Engagement in 2022
April 28 | Webinar

No employee should have to choose between voting and earning a paycheck. The Time to Vote project continues to mobilize businesses to help more Americans to vote in 2022, while also contributing to the national culture shift needed to increase voter participation. With nearly 2000 companies joining the effort, the momentum must continue to ensure the highest turnout in midterm election history.

BFA hosted an event for Hims & Hers, Legacy Vacation Resorts, Patagonia, and PayPal where they shared their reasons for making their civic commitments, as well as strategies for boosting employee engagement and participation.

 • • •

Civic Education: An Effective Way to Strengthen Our Democracy
April 14 | Webinar

On April 14th, BFA was joined by iCivics Executive Director Louise Dube´, Indiana Bar Foundation President & CEO Chuck Dunlap, and Allstate Corporation SVP for Government & Industry Relations, Jerry Zimmerman, to discuss the importance of civics education and their support for the Civics Secures Democracy Act (CSDA (S.879 / H.R.1814). The bipartisan bill would authorize $1 billion annually over five years, primarily to states and school districts, to enhance civics education in K-12.

“Civic engagement is the oxygen of our democracy and free enterprise, and corporations thrive when we have free enterprise,” said Allstate’s Zimmerman. “It’s interesting how over the past number of years, as people lose trust in our government, which I say goes hand-in-glove being uninformed about civics, they put more trust in corporations… They expect businesses to be more engaged in these types of matters and to make our communities and country better. Allstate knows that a more educated public is good for our business and country.”

Watch the webinar video in full.
Read our blog post capturing quotes and insights from the event.

• • •

PA Election Reform: Why Business Should Care
Feb 2 | Webinar

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is at a crossroads. State lawmakers are pushing to make it harder to vote, expensive and unnecessary audits of the 2022 election are continuing, partisan gerrymandering risks making PA politics event more volatile, and a law permitting Pennsylvanians no-excuse mail-in voting has been ruled unconstitutional by a lower court. The Getting Back to Business Campaign held a timely discussion with businesses and employers that desire an accountable state government that focuses on economic improvements instead of political schemes.

Speakers: Ethan Demme (CEO, Demme Learning), Susan Gobreski (Director, Government Policy, PA League of Women Voters), Elizabeth Howard (Senior Counsel for Democracy, the Brennan Center for Justice) Jabari Jones (President, West Philadelphia Corridor Collaborative)

• • •

Election 2022: Tools to Maximize Employee Engagement
‍‍
Jan 25 | Webinar

Employee civic engagement can be an effective barometer of an energized workforce and culture, and businesses can play an active role in enabling a culture of voting in the workforce. As we enter a busy midterm election season, the rules and laws of civic engagement (registration, volunteering, voting, etc.) are evolving rapidly, and employees will be seeking information on how to best engage. Companies are a trusted source of voting information by providing tools that incentivize and engage employees in the democratic process. In this webinar, demonstrations were given of three tech tools employers can leverage to support their teams' civic engagement. Time To Vote member Patagonia also shared the growing momentum of giving employees the time and tools needed to cast their ballots.

Speakers: Jess Riegel (CEO, Motivote), Alex Niemczewski (CEO, BallotReady), Laurie Lenninger (Director Strategic Partnerships, VoteAmerica), and J.J. Huggins, PR, Patagonia, & Founder, Time to Vote)

Please reference this toolkit that was developed to provide strategies for employee civic engagement, as well as an overview of these platforms. You can also view the video of the webinar in full.

• • •

2021 Events

Getting Back to Business - Pennsylvania
A Bipartisan Fireside Chat: PA Election Reform and Economic Recovery
Dec 16 | Webinar

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is currently facing two great challenges. First, is the economic effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic that have many businesses on the verge of collapse and residents struggling to meet financial obligations. Second, the debates on election security, reforms, and processes have led to controversial legislative proposals in the State Legislature and confusing information. Partisanship on both issues have prevented the Commonwealth from making significant progress for Pennsylvanians on either issue. This bipartisan chat with two Pennsylvania state senators primarily focused on the discussion around common-sense election reforms and non-controversial economic measures that the State Legislature can take to get PA Back to Business.

Speakers: State Representative Jared Solomon (D-202), State Representative Jesse Topper (R-78), Jabari Jones (President of the West Philadelphia Corridor Collaborative), Gene Barr (President of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry)

• • •

How Business Can Address the Threats to Our Democracy
Dec 8 | Webinar

In response to the growing influence of authoritarian leaders around the globe, President Biden and the State Department held a virtual Summit on Democracy from December 9-10. Leaders from the US government, foreign heads of state, civil society, and the private sector focused on challenges and opportunities facing democracies. Prior to the Summit, Business for America held a webinar where we discussed how business can effectively address the threats to democracy. Among the points of discussion were the escalating threats to our political stability and form of government, as well as collective actions that individual business can take to protect our representative democracy and capitalistic economy.

Speakers: Ian Bassin (Co-founder, Protect Democracy), Didi Kuo (Stanford), Joel Elliott (Salesforce), Dave Leichtman (Microsoft)

Read our blog post with highlights of the event, and view the video in full.

• • •

Disinformation and Our Civic Future
Oct 29 | Webinar

It’s no secret: America’s electoral system faces a crisis of trust, driven by the proliferation of disinformation and conspiracy theories that threatens the public's faith in the civic discourse and the conduct of elections. All this breeds polarization and economic instability. As institutions that depend on a well-functioning government and society, US businesses have a vested interest in addressing these challenges and investing in the future of the democratic system. But what, specifically, can businesses do to address these challenges? Our webinar brought together individuals and companies who are already taking steps to educate their workforces and customers to spot unfounded claims about the integrity of our election infrastructure.

Speakers: Craig Newmark (Craig Newmark Philanthropies), Ginny Badanes (Microsoft), Larry Norden (Brennan Center for Justice), and David Jay (Center for Humane Technology)

Read our blog post with highlights of the event, and view the video in full.

• • •

The Threat of Election Cyberattacks to our Democracy & Economy
Oct 18 | Webinar

After years of under-investment, our election infrastructure remains outdated and vulnerable. In 2018, Republican and Democratic senators came together to advance the Secure Elections Act on a bipartisan basis, which ultimately was shelved. Will it be possible to come together across the aisle on this issue once again? In partnership with the National Election Defense Coalition and the Renew America Movement, join us to hear from election experts on the current state of our election infrastructure and where vulnerabilities exist, what it will take to fortify our election systems, the legislative outlook, and how businesses can get involved.

Speakers: Trey Grayson (Former Secretary of State, Kentucky), Dave Leichtman (Microsoft Democracy Forward Initiative), Miles Taylor (Co-Founder Renew America Movement), Justin Talbot Zorn (National Election Defense Coalition)

View the video in full.

• • •

Getting Pennsylvania Back to Business
Oct 1 | Webinar

On September 15th, the legislature announced its intention to send subpoenas to Pennsylvania counties for an expensive election audit that will allocate millions of dollars to verify an election that has been certified twice. Counties like Philadelphia would spend over $40 million just to comply with the election audit. Meanwhile, the Pennsylvania State Legislature has held over 20 hearings on voter fraud, introduced laws that make it harder for eligible voters to cast their ballots (especially in Black and Brown communities), and held onto $7 billion in relief funding instead of sending it to residents and businesses in need. Prioritizing economic recovery, not restricting voting rights, should be the focus of our legislature. Business for America and The West Philadelphia Corridor Collaborative hosted this discussion to share how the business community can make their voices heard and make an impact.

Speakers: Jabari Jones (West Philadelphia Corridor Collaborative), Jared Solomon (PA State Representative D-202), Liz Howard (Sr. Counsel, Brennan Center), Ethan Connor-Ross (SVP eConsult Solutions)

• • •

Protecting Democracy by Updating the Electoral Count Act
Oct 1 | Webinar

Are you concerned about vulnerabilities in our electoral system? We held a timely briefing on how Congress can reduce the risk of future election crises by updating the more than 130-year-old Electoral Count Act of 1887 (ECA), which governs the process of casting and counting electoral votes for president and vice president. It was, in part, confusion over the intent and responsibilities of the vIce president that contributed to the events of January 6th. Our friends at the National Task Force on Election Crises released a new paper describing priorities for ECA reform to prevent instability in the future.

Speakers: Rachel Kleinfeld (Carnegie Endowment for International Peace), Genevieve Nadeau (Protect Democracy), Trey Grayson (Former Secretary of State, Kentucky)

Read our blog post with highlights of the event, and view the video in full.

• • •

Voting Rights and a Healthy Democracy - What Small Businesses Can Do
Aug 11 | Webinar

One of the most effective remedies to ensure that every American has equal access to vote, free from discrimination, is the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act (VRAA). In order to help ensure a healthy and competitive business climate, our elections must be fair, secure, and accessible, and all efforts must be made to ensure everyone can vote. We held a briefing for business leaders in partnership with Main Street Alliance to discuss the importance of the VRAA and how business can take action by contacting senators and signing onto a national business letter.

• • •

Silicon Slopes Commons: Voting Rights
July 13 | Webinar

Silicon Slopes partnered with Business for America to encourage Utah businesses to learn about the bipartisan John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act (VRAA). This briefing was held exclusively for Utah business leaders to learn about the VRAA and how to take action while demonstrating their commitment to racial equality and voting rights by supporting this landmark piece of federal legislation.

• • •

Corporate Political Responsibility Taskforce | Expert Dialogue with Business for America
July 8 | Webinar

As business leaders are called to step forward to support civic institutions in an increasingly polarized US, they face urgent, practical questions about how to respond. What can we learn from companies that are engaging effectively? What positive actions can companies take in the near-term, with so much at stake and tensions so high? These questions were explored in an interactive dialogue with Sarah Bonk, founder and CEO of Business for America, and Richard Eidlin, BFA’s national policy director. Elizabeth Doty, director of the Erb Institute’s Corporate Political Responsibility Taskforce moderated the conversation.

• • •

Divided We Fall: How Business Can Depolarize the U.S.
An Event Series with the Niskanen Center & Business for America
Deepening divisions in the United States, both politically and culturally, pose a threat to our country. The issue goes beyond a move to the right within the Republican party or to the left among Democrats, as extremism has marginalized long standing moderate political beliefs in both camps, and bipartisanship has been vilified. Our political system’s polarization and dysfunction harm our business environment and workplace culture.

The Niskanen Center and Business for America held this four-part webinar series to discuss the root causes of political polarization, its social and economic impacts, and what the business community can do to reduce division in their companies, in politics, and in our society.

I: Understanding Polarization: An existential threat to business and democracy | Watch the video  »

II: Corporate Civic Responsibility: Why leading businesses want to change our civic culture | Watch the video  »

III: Changing Incentives: How business contributes to polarization (and how it can stop) | Watch the video  »

IV: Policy Solutions: How business can help depolarize politics and incentivize moderation  | Watch the video  »

• • •

America Talks | A Weekend of Connection in the Midst of Deep Division
June 12 & 13 | Webinar
America Talks is a powerful two-day event that invites Americans to connect one-on-one, face-to-face on video across our political divides. Join this powerful event and your employees will speak directly with other Americans seeking to repair divides, restore connection, and find common cause.
Contact us to get involved »

• • •

Voting Rights Webinar: The Native American Voting Rights Act and the Voting Rights Advancement Act
June 8 | Webinar
Join the National Congress of American Indians for a non-partisan informational webinar covering the Native American Voting Rights Act (NAVRA), the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act (VRAA), and the implications for state-level election policy. Participants will learn about the Business for Voting Rights Initiative and opportunities for tribal enterprises and companies to engage with this effort. Speakers include Jacqueline De Leon of the Native American Rights Fund (NARF), as well as representatives from the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights and Business for America.

• • •

2021 Civic Health Conference: The Business Case for Civic Health
Apr 23 | Webinar
Companies of all sizes have come to embrace the idea that businesses should not only deliver value to shareholders, but also be a force for good in society. Civic health as practiced by businesses is not about using their political power to advance specific corporate interests; it is about businesses working with their employees, customers, and community stakeholders to encourage them to vote, help reduce polarization, encourage civic volunteerism, and strengthen our democracy. This panel will offer examples of how your institution and community can partner with the private sector to enhance our overall civic health. Moderated by Business for America, with speakers from Warby Parker, Hims & Hers, and Oak Street Health.

• • •

Briefing on Perryman Group's Economic Impact Study of Texas Restricting Voter Access
Apr 9 | Webinar
Business for America hosted a press briefing where Dr. Ray Perryman, president and CEO of The Perryman Group, presented his latest study regarding the economic impact restrictive voter legislation could have on Texas. Bills recently introduced in Texas to restrict voter access may have substantial negative economic consequences due to lost earnings, related reductions in consumer spending, reductions in travel and tourism, and less economic development.
Watch the video »

• • •

FixUS: Stakeholder Capitalism: Moving From “Why” to “How”
Mar 24 | Webinar
Our polarized governing environment has put increasing pressure on businesses to step up and help solve a range of societal problems. At the same time many CEOs have acknowledged that a corporation's purpose must go beyond shareholder value and include concern for employees, consumers, and communities. While attention has been given to why a more stakeholder engaged capitalism is necessary, less has been focused on how business can go about meeting this new core objective. Please join us at this FixUS event for a discussion on how businesses can put stakeholder capitalism into action. The event will coincide with the release of a new paper on the topic, and feature experts in corporate governance and politics discussing how businesses can build stakeholder engagement into their business practices. There will also be an opportunity to answer your questions.

Future 500 CAN Briefing: Corporate Political Responsibility
Feb 26  | Webinar
In the wake of January's attack on the US Capitol and in light of the extreme polarization in the US, many companies are scaling back their political contributions and reevaluating their political engagement strategies. Stakeholders are now asking whether corporate political and marketing activities are directly or indirectly contributing to increasing polarization, disinformation, and distrust and thereby eroding civic institutions and the democracy on which we depend. Future 500 is partnering with the Erb Institute's Corporate Political Responsibility Taskforce, Business for America, and In This Together for a cross-sectoral, cross-functional exploration of corporate political responsibility and transparency in 2021 and beyond.

Voting Rights, Election Security & Ethics Reform in HR1
Jan 13 | Webinar
Business for America is proud to host a conversation with U.S. Congressman John Sarbanes (D-MD), the primary author of H.R. 1, the For the People Act. The most comprehensive package of democracy reforms since Watergate, H.R. 1 was passed by the House in 2019 but not considered in the Senate. Citing the challenges of the 2020 election, President-elect Biden says the bill is one of his top priorities. H.R. 1 will be re-introduced in the House in 2021, but the bill is not without its critics. Any business that wants to promote democracy and ensure  employees can vote easily and securely will want to learn more about this legislation.
Watch the video »

2020 Events

3BL Forum: Brands Taking Stands - Business Elects to Lead
Oct 22 | Webinar
Over three Thursdays in October, 3BL Forum: Brands Taking Stands® – Business Elects to Lead will convene top brands to engage in meaningful conversations around the corporate response to COVID-19, the movement for racial and economic justice, company-led get-out-the-vote initiatives, and environmental, social, governance (ESG) factors through the lens of our rapidly changing perspectives. BFA Founder & CEO Sarah Bonk will be a panelist in the final session focused on business leadership to get-out-the-vote. The session will close out the 3BL Virtual Forum with a look at ESG, corporate purpose, and what to expect in the next year.
Watch the video »

How Colorado Business Can Help Combat Disinfo & Support the 2020 Election
Oct 19 | Webinar
Over the coming weeks, the foundation of our democracy — the integrity of our elections — is at stake. Voters in Colorado may unfortunately find themselves subject to disinformation efforts by domestic and foreign forces about the integrity of the election process. Join us for a conversation about steps your company can take to support a well-run election and healthy democracy. With Nathan Blumenthal, Senior Advisor for Election Security with the Colorado Secretary of State’s office; Christiana Lang, Senior Associate with the More in Common; Amanda Gonzalez, Common Cause Colorado; and Richard Eidlin, National Policy Director for Business for America.

Kearney: Fair and Safe Voting — Find Out What You Can Do
Oct 16 | Webinar
Have you made your plan to vote? Global management consulting firm Kearney will be hosting a virtual roundtable with Sarah Bonk, CEO and founder of Business for America; Jason Madden, an attorney at Proskauer Rose; and Marc Berejka, Director of Community and Government Affairs at REI Co-op. Your zip code shouldn’t determine how safe it is for you to vote in the middle of a pandemic.

Election 2020 Member Briefing ☆ How Business Can Combat Disinfo & Disruption
Oct 13 | Webinar
Over the coming weeks, the foundation of our democracy — the integrity of our elections — is at stake. Voters are facing many challenges: new methods for casting ballots, an under-resourced election infrastructure during a global pandemic, and, unfortunately, disinformation efforts by domestic and foreign forces. We’d like to invite you to a conversation about what steps your company can take in the final weeks before November 3rd to support a well-run election and healthy democracy.
• Craig Newmark | Founder of Craigslist and Craig Newmark Philanthropies
• Barbara Arnwine | Founder & President, Transformative Justice Coalition
• Sarah Bonk | Founder, Business for America
• Liz Howard | Senior Counsel, Brennan Center for Justice
• Christiana Lang | Senior Associate, More In Common

How California Business Can Help the 2020 Election ☆ Operation Vote Safe
Oct 8 | Webinar
Join us for a discussion with Lauren Gallant, the Assistant Deputy Secretary of State for California, about how your company can encourage voting and civic engagement among your employees and customers. Business for America is pleased to be part of the California Secretary of State’s Democracy at Work program, a nonpartisan effort to galvanize the private sector to educate voters about how to register and vote. Also, learn about Business for America’s national nonpartisan Operation Vote Safe initiative designed to help election officials and nonprofit get-out-the-vote organizations secure the PPE, supplies, and equipment needed to keep voters safe in California and beyond.

How Ohio Business Can Help the 2020 Election ☆ Operation Vote Safe
Oct 2 | Webinar
In response to the urgent need for additional election resources in Ohio, Business for America is launching the nonpartisan Operation Vote Safe. In Ohio, we are pleased to be working with the Ohio Secretary of State to mobilize a network of civic-minded businesses to assist election administrators in communities, including the secretary’s Day for Democracy program, designed to recruit poll workers and defend democracy. Join us on October 2nd for a conversation with Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose and representatives from Andersen Windows & Doors and MobilityWorks on how your business can make a difference this year.

Tides and Pledge 1% present Corporate Impact Leaders Forum 2020:
The Role of Corporations in Guarding Healthy Democracy: What Can Your Company Do?
Sep 29 | Webinar
At the first event in Tides' Corporate Impact Leaders Forum, prominent social impact leaders from the nonprofit, and corporate sectors join us to share valuable insights into the ways companies can support healthy democracy—via philanthropic dollars, employee time, advocacy, brand influence, and more. Come to learn about current, on-the-ground needs and challenges, and what leading peer companies are doing to guard democracy, both in the weeks before the November elections and beyond.
Natalia Salgado
, Chief of Civic Engagement, Center for Popular Democracy
Sarah Bonk, Founder & CEO, Business for America
Erin Reilly, Chief Impact Officer, Twilio
Jason McBriarty, Director of Communications and Operations, Levi Strauss Foundation
Olivia Khalili, Vice President, Global Social Impact and Philanthropy, PagerDuty
Edward Wang, Director, Corporate Social Impact, Tides

How Business Can Help the 2020 Election ☆ Operation Vote Safe
Aug 25 | Webinar
In response to the urgent need for additional election resources, Business for America is launching the nonpartisan Operation Vote Safe. The national, all-hands-on-deck initiative is mobilizing the private sector to support a safe and secure election by donating PPE, equipment, and essential supplies to states and counties. Companies are also being asked to invite employees to serve as poll workers, provide business facilities for polling locations or drop boxes, provide logistics support, assist with public communications, and more. Hear from the Secretaries of State from California, Pennsylvania, and Washington, as well as Lime, Patagonia, and other leading brands.

200+ U.S. Businesses Urge Congress to Fund Safe, Secure Election
Jul 31 | Webinar
Over 200 American businesses representing over $83B in annual revenue and 18 local business organizations have signed a business letter to Congress asking them to ensure that states have the resources necessary to protect voters and elections. Please join us to hear from corporate leaders about why they care about the election and want to ensure that states have the necessary resources to ensure that voting in the 2020 election is safe, the results are accurate, and every voter has a voice.
Watch the video »

GSBA Civic Engagement Series: The Importance of Elections
Jul 20 | Webinar
The pandemic has highlighted vulnerabilities in our elections systems across the county, many of which existed long before 2020. Washington State's vote-by-mail system provides safe access and higher participation, while voters in other states wait in line and struggle to keep a healthy distance. What can be done here in Washington, as well as nationally, to improve the accessibility, security, and trustworthiness of our elections? What role can businesses play in supporting access to democracy? What would it take to help create a democracy that looks more like the people it serves? Join the discussion with GSBA, Business for America, More Equitable Democracy, and the LGBTQ Victory Fund.

Ready To Vote PA: Educating Poconos Workers on 2020 Election Changes
Jul 14| Webinar
2020 already brought significant changes in how Pennsylvania elections are conducted. The introduction of no-excuse vote-by-mail and new, modern voting equipment created a need to educate voters across the commonwealth. Now the coronavirus pandemic has complicated election plans, putting a premium on protecting the health of voters and poll workers, and requiring more outreach to voters. Join BFA, the Pocono Chamber of Commerce, State Reps. Rosemary Brown and Maureen Madden, and local business leaders to discuss the role Poconos businesses can play in making our November 3 election safe, secure, and accessible to all PA voters.

Conservative Roundtable on Safe, Secure Elections with Vote by Mail
Jun 11 | Webinar
Many conservative pundits and Republican elected officials support expansion of vote by mail. Let's find out why and debunk the myths with Washington Secretary of State Kim Wyman (R); William Kristol, founding director of Defending Democracy Together; and Mindy Finn, co-founder of Stand Up Republic. We'll discuss the conservative perspective on election security, fiscal responsibility, and a commitment to preserving our democratic republic. We'll also debunk the myths around absentee voting, such as proof that vote by mail does not favor any particular political party.
Watch the video »

Time to Vote: New Hampshire & Vermont Businesses Boost Voter Participation
Jun 10 | Webinar
No one should have to choose between earning a paycheck and casting a ballot. The Time to Vote project is mobilizing businesses to help more Americans to vote in November 2020, while also contributing to the national culture shift needed to increase voter participation. Join Ben & Jerry’s, Patagonia, Seventh Generation, Timberland, and W.S. Badger to learn more about Time to Vote and how your company can help strengthen representative democracy.
Watch the video »

NHBSR Virtual Spring Conference
Jun 1–5 | Webinar
NHBSR presents New Hampshire's preeminent sustainable business conference with over 300 organizational and business professionals. Sarah Bonk will be giving a short talk and leading a breakout session: "Corporate *Civic* Responsibility in a Pandemic: How the Business Community Can Protect Democracy in 2020 and Beyond."
Watch the video »

Vote Safe in 2020: OH & PA Election Plans for COVID-19
May 14 | Webinar
Please join us for a nationwide webinar on the importance of protecting voters' health with secure voting by mail and safe in-person voting — and how the business community can help make it happen. We’re pleased to be joined by Amber McReynolds, CEO of the National Vote at Home Institute, Pennsylvania Secretary of State Kathy Boockvar (D), Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose (R), and Corley Kenna of Patagonia. We will discuss how Ohio and Pennsylvania, both swing states, are expanding access to vote-by-mail systems and keeping voters safe in the 2020 Elections, and why it matters to the business community.

Ready to Vote: Educating Pennsylvania's Workforce About Election Changes
Apr 29 | Webinar
Please join us for a statewide webinar to discuss the importance of Pennsylvania’s historic, bipartisan Act 77 election reforms for the 2020 elections, the more recent Act 12 to postpone the PA Primary Election, and how the Commonwealth’s business community can make sure employees know how and when they can cast their ballots this year. We'll review voting by mail, extended dates for voter registration, new election equipment, and more.
Watch the video »

NEXT Economy | Strengthening our Democracy: A Smart Way to Create a Positive Rate of Return
Apr 23 | Webinar
Social Venture Circle hosted a conversation led by Business for America's Richard Eidlin and featuring Sid Amster (Social Impact Advisor), Jim Davidson (SVC Board Chair), and Sarah Bonk (Business for America) on the role angel investors can play in supporting nonpartisan political reforms that contribute to a more competitive and stable economy by reducing political polarization and business investment risk.
Watch the video »

Protect Public Health & Civic Health: Vote-by-Mail for 2020 Elections
Apr 7 | Webinar
Public health is essential but so is civic health. Voting by mail will protect both. Join us and help make it happen for the 2020 Elections. We’re pleased to be joined by Amber McReynolds, CEO of the National Vote at Home Institute, California Secretary of State Alex Padilla, Washington Secretary of State Kim Wyman, and J.J. Huggins of Patagonia. We will discuss how vote-by-mail can protect public health while also protecting the voices of our employees and communities on Election Day, and what business leaders can do about it.
Watch the video »

Giving Your Employees Time to Vote: A webinar for civic-minded businesses in Pennsylvania
Mar 24 | Webinar
No employee should have to choose between voting and earning a paycheck. The Time to Vote project is mobilizing businesses to help more Americans to vote in November 2020, while also contributing to the national culture shift needed to increase voter participation. Join Patagonia,  Azavea, La Colombe, and QuotaPath to learn more about Time to Vote and how your company can contribute to our country’s civic health.
Watch the video »

Giving Your Employees Time to Vote: A webinar for civic-minded businesses
Feb 6 | Webinar
No employee should have to choose between voting and earning a paycheck. The Time to Vote project is mobilizing businesses to help more Americans to vote in November 2020, while also contributing to the national culture shift needed to increase voter participation. Join Patagonia, Levi Strauss, PayPal, and Timberland to learn more about Time to Vote and how your company can contribute to our country’s civic health.
Watch the video »

2019 Events

Defending Representative Democracy & Free Enterprise: The Critical Role of Colorado Business
Dec 4 | Denver, CO
Trust in U.S. institutions — including trust in business — is dangerously low. According to recent studies, low confidence in our political and economic systems are major factors in this decline. Businesses are under increasing pressure, and their employees want to know where they stand. Please join us for an informal gathering to learn more about these trends and what “corporate civic responsibility” might mean for your firm in Colorado. Congressman Ken Buck has been invited as our featured guest. Sponsored byBusiness for America, Business for American Promise, and Ranked Choice Voting – Colorado.

National Association of Nonpartisan Reformers Summit
Dec 5–6 | Denver, CO
Business for America will be there to discuss how we can align the business community with nonpartisan solutions to increase competition, participation, and accountability in our political system.

Investing in Colorado Elections: Americans Deserve Elections We Can Trust
Nov 13 | Denver, CO
Join our press event to call on the U.S. Senate to pass the House-approved Securing America’s Federal Elections Act (SAFE Act) and allocate the funds necessary to secure our country’s election systems and regain voters’ trust in our elections. Speakers will include Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold, BFA Policy Director Richard Eidlin, Common Cause of Colorado, and Progressive Democrats of America.

3BL Forum Brands Taking Stands – What’s Next
Oct 29–30 | MGM National Harbor, Outside Washington, DC
BFA is proud to partner with 3BL at their “high-octane” annual conference, bringing together a diverse group of business, policy, and nonprofit leaders to share insights, advance best practices, and workshop forward-thinking solutions to the most pressing challenges of our time.

SB’19: Democracy Is Good for Business: The Business Case for Political Reform
Jun 6 | Detroit, MI
BFA organized a panel for the flagship Sustainable Brands conference, moderated by SB Vice President Darren Beck, and featuring Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold, Patagonia’s Mark Stevens, and BFA Founder Sarah Bonk. They discussed why democracy is vital to the business climate, what businesses are already doing to strengthen our democratic institutions, and how companies can add civic health to their corporate responsibility programs for the benefit of the businesses, employees, customers, and our country.

Webinar: Pennsylvania Lawmakers on Secure & Accurate Elections
May 31 | online
A serious bipartisan conversation is now underway in the PA General Assembly aimed at modernizing the election code, enhancing election security, and offering all voters more options for participation. We’ll be joined by State Senator Mike Folmer and Aerion Abney of All Voting is Local and Keystone Votes.
Watch the video »

The Business Case for Campaign Finance Reform: A Conversation with Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold
May 28 | Denver, CO
In the Colorado 2018 election cycle, more than $82 million was donated to independent expenditure committees, Colorado’s version of SuperPACs. Of that $82 million, more than 75% came in donations of $100,000 or more, with 80% originating from ‘dark money’ sources hard to trace. Join the Colorado Business Roundtable and Business for America as they host Secretary of State Griswold a discussion with business leaders about recent legislative action in the 2019 Colorado General Assembly on campaign finance and disclosure reform.
COBRT interview with Sarah Bonk and Richard Eidlin »

EarthX 2019
Apr 26–29 | Dallas, TX
Policy Director Richard Eidlin spoke at the BridgeUSA Summit at EarthX.

Unrig the System Summit 2019
Mar 29–31 | Nashville, TN
Panel | Democracy Is Good for Business: The Business Case for Political Reform
Is business an enemy or ally in the fight for a truly representative democracy? Most businesspeople understand that our unstable, ineffective political system hinders economic progress and competitiveness, and distracts from other challenges facing our country. It’s bad for business and it’s bad for all Americans. The business community can be a powerful ally in protecting democratic institutions by making the economic case for reform.
• Sarah Bonk (moderator) – Founder, Business for America
• MaryAnne Howland – CEO, Ibis Communications
• Matt Patsky – CEO, Trillium Asset Management
• John Wass – CEO, Profit Isle and Cofounder, American Promise

Webinar: The Business Case for Secure & Accurate Elections in Pennsylvania
Wed, Mar 27 | webinar
Elections are the cornerstone of our republic. Unfortunately, Pennsylvania’s current election systems are outdated and rely on undependable 15-to-20-year-old equipment. A lack of confidence in the state’s capacity to safeguard elections can undermine trust in government, reduce voter turnout, and is ultimately harmful to Pennsylvania’s business climate and economy. Join us and learn how the business community can support election reform.
Watch the video »

2018 Events

National Association of Nonpartisan Reformers Summit
Nov 29–30 | Half Moon Bay, CA
Business for America will be there to discuss aligning the business community with nonpartisan solutions to increase competition, participation, and accountability in our political system.

Democracy on the Ballot: The Impact of the 2018 Midterms
Nov 14 | webinar
Across the nation, voters succeeded in gathering the signatures required to place a wide range of reform initiatives on their states’ midterm ballots. Join our webinar and learn what the midterm election results mean for improving election integrity, addressing money in politics, and strengthening our representative democracy.
Watch the video »

DC Breakfast with Business for America
Oct 18 | Washington, DC
For the business community, election integrity is more than a matter of principle  —  it’s an urgent economic priority.  Business for America is dedicated to educating and mobilizing business leaders to support improvements to elections and government. We want to hear your thoughts about how federal and state governments can strengthen the democratic process, as well as the business community’s role in making it happen.

Bridge Alliance Summit & National Conference on Citizenship
Oct 17–18 | Washington, DC
Business for America will be attending the National Conference on Citizenship (NCoC) annual conference and participating in the Bridge Alliance summit.

Philadelphia Mixer with Business for America
Oct 16 | Philadelphia, PA
In Pennsylvania, an active debate is underway over how to improve how to improve elections and democracy work. Join Kathy Boockvar, Senior Advisor to PA Governor Tom Wolf on Election Modernization, Chris Jacobs, CEO of Communally, and Sarah Bonk, Founder of Business for America, to discuss why election integrity matters to business and what steps state and federal officials are taking to upgrade election security.

A Conversation with Vermont Secretary of State Jim Condos
Oct 12 | webinar
Join us for a conversation with Vermont Secretary of State Jim Condos and Business for America Founder Sarah Bonk about how state officials and Congress are working to upgrade election security across the country. Jim Condos has been at the forefront of these discussions in his own state of Vermont and as the current President of the National Association of Secretaries of State. As Vermont’s chief election official, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of elections is one of his highest priorities. Join us and learn what you as a business leader can do to improve election integrity.
Watch the video »

The Business Case for Secure & Accurate Elections in New Jersey
Oct 5 | webinar
Join us for an important conversation on how election reform in New Jersey will strengthen representative democracy — as well as the economy. Our discussion will feature leading election reformers and business leaders who are working to promote needed reforms in the way elections are run in New Jersey and across the country. Business leaders have a critical role to play in advancing solutions. Find out what you as a business leader can do to improve election integrity.
Watch the video »

Business for America Action: Secure Elections Act
Jul 26 | webinar
We invited businesses and business organizations to discuss how we can help advance the Secure Elections Act in the U.S. Senate.

Salon: Brad Fitch of the Congressional Management Foundation
Apr 24 | San Francisco, CA
We invited changemakers and technologists interested in government reform to mingle, make connections, and discuss the latest in government reform with Brad Fitch, CEO of the Congressional Management Foundation in DC.

RegTech Summit
Mar 7 | Washington, D.C.
Business for America participated in the inaugural RegTech Data Summit, hosted by the Data Coalition. The event explored how regulatory technology (RegTech) solutions can enable automation, reduce fraud, cut compliance costs, and provide new opportunities for policy analysis. Speakers included SEC commissioner Michael Piwowar, Palantir co-founder and 8VC founding partner Joe Lonsdale, and many other distinguished experts and business leaders.

Business for America Presents… FT Journalist Rana Foroohar
Feb 13 | webinar
We were delighted to host renowned journalist Rana Foroohar, a Financial Times global business columnist and associate editor, and author of Makers and Takers: How Wall Street Destroyed Main Street. Ms. Foroohar shared her insights on the future of democracy, capitalism, and the digital revolution, including a lively discussion with Business for America supporters.
Watch the video »

Unrig the System Summit 2018
Feb 2–4 | New Orleans, LA
Business for America Founder Sarah Bonk gave a talk about the real Boston Tea Party and the business perspective on political reform.
Watch the video »

Business for America Presents… Economist Edmund Phelps
Jan 25 | webinar
We hosted Nobel Prize-winning economist Edmund Phelps of Columbia University. Phelps won the 2006 Nobel Prize in Economics and is the author of Mass Flourishing, an award-winning investigation of the conditions for societies to support not just material wealth, but “flourishing” — meaningful work, self-expression, and personal growth. During the call, we talked about how to bring more innovation and dynamism to the US economy for the benefit of all Americans.
Watch the video »

2017 Events

50 State Solution Convening
January 25–26, 2017 | San Francisco, CA
Organized by California ForwardUnrig the System: A Meeting of Nonpartisan Reformers
April 7–8, 2017 | Kansas City, MO

The 2017 Global Election Technology Summit
May 17–18, 2017 | San Francisco, CA
Organized by Startup Policy Lab. Co-sponsored by Business for America.
Founder Sarah Bonk moderated a panel discussion about design and innovation in elections and civic tech.

National Institute of Money in State Politics Annual Convening
June 1–4, 2017 | Bigfork, MT
Organized by the National Institute of Money in State Politics
Charles Kolb participated in a panel discussion about fresh approaches to political reform.

3rd Annual Civic & Gov Tech Showcase
September 13, 2017 | San Jose, CA
Organized by Innovate Your State
Business for America hosted a showcase booth at the event.

Business for America Presents… Michael Porter and Katherine Gehl
October 12, 2017
We hosted a conversation with Michael Porter from Harvard Business School and Katherine Gehl, former CEO of Gehl Foods, to discuss their recent report on the economic implications of our dysfunctional political environment: Why Competition in the Politics Industry is Failing America. Professor Porter is one of the world’s most influential business advisers, and Ms. Gehl is committed to ensuring that business leaders make a difference as advocates for better government.
Watch the video »

6th Annual Sustainable Business Summit
October 22–24, 2017 | Washington, D.C.
Organized by the American Sustainable Business Council
Founder Sarah Bonk joined a panel discussion on making government work better for business and the public.

The Age of the Individual: 500 Years Ago Today
October 31, 2017 | New York, NY
Organized by the Center on Capitalism and Society
Charles Kolb chaired a discussion on individualism, humanities, and education.

Business for America Presents… Norm Ornstein
November 16, 2017
We hosted a call with Norm Ornstein to talk about his recent New York Times bestseller, One Nation After Trump: A Guide for the Perplexed, the Disillusioned, the Desperate, and the Not-Yet Deported, co-authored with Thomas Mann and E.J. Dionne.
Watch the video »

Business for America Presents… The Wall Street Journal’s Byron Tau
The Wall Street Journal’s Byron Tau joined us to talk about DC’s increased scrutiny of Silicon Valley. Tau is a reporter in The Wall Street Journal’s Washington, D.C. bureau, where he covers Congress and politics. Prior to joining the newspaper, Tau was a reporter at Politico where he covered the White House, lobbying, campaign finance, and politics.
Watch the video »

Business for America Presents… The Aspen Institute’s Rhett Buttle
Rhett Buttle, founder of Public Private Strategies and senior fellow at The Aspen Institute, joined us to talk about risks that may prevent an complete, accurate U.S. Census. The U.S. Census is essential for accurate federal data, rational policymaking, and proper Congressional representation — as well as business strategy and market research. Buttle dug into these topics and told us how business can play a lead role in ensuring a full and accurate count.
Watch the video »

Business for America Presents… Davia Temin of Temin & Co.
As a crisis strategist, Davia Temin deals with the thorniest issues of the day, from global politics and instability, to corporate board and C-suite priorities and intrigue, to the crises faced by our nation’s top colleges and universities. She often shares her insights as a Forbes.com columnist on “Reputation Matters.” On our call, she discussed all these topics and answered questions about how to lead with integrity and efficacy through whatever crisis comes your way.
Watch the video »

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Upcoming Events

Conference
Managing Political Risk in 2024

Join us for actionable insights and best practices to help your company or association manage risk in today’s volatile political climate.

Thu
,
Apr 11, 2024
9:00 am
1:30 pm
ET
Apr 11
Apr 11, 2024
Washington, DC
Register Now »

Past Events

Webinar
Business' Role in Preventing Democratic Backsliding
Mar 14
Mar 14, 2024
Mar 14, 2024

BFA's Richard Eidlin will join a panel moderated by Richard H. Pildes (NYU School of Law) to discuss the role of business in preserving and protecting our democratic institutions and the threats that lie ahead. He will be joined by Daniella Ballou-Aares (Leadership Now Project) and Ben Ginsberg (Hoover Institution, Stanford).

Conference
Public Affairs Council Annual Conference
Mar 7
Mar 7, 2024
Mar 7, 2024

At a time when stakeholders expect corporate America to help solve social issues, companies have joined efforts to improve U.S. civic engagement and protect democratic institutions — and for good reason. BFA will share strategies for businesses to promote civic health in America, including employee and community engagement, workforce education, and policy advocacy.

Conference
2024 Election Readiness and Corporate Political Responsibility
Feb 29
Feb 29, 2024
Feb 29, 2024

Bonk and Richard will be speaking at this online event where participants will leave with a better understanding of US political risks and the implications for business, an overview of the Erb Principles for Corporate Political Responsibility, and a menu of six specific steps they can take to increase their readiness, including potential partners to help them follow through.

Conference
Nonpartisan Reformers Annual Summit
Feb 12
Feb 14, 2024
Feb 12, 2024

Engaging the Business Community. A robust, competitive democracy is more than a political issue, it has economic implications as well. This session builds on this morning’s plenary discussion for a deeper dive into how to effectively engage the business community. Facilitated by Ron Miller (YPO) and Richard Eidlin (Business for America).

Webinar
Driving Impact: Going Beyond 2024
Feb 7
Feb 7, 2024
Feb 7, 2024

Join us for an off the record discussion about what the aftermath of this election may bring America in 2025. What should business and civil society prepare for and how? What impact will unprecedented divisions in 2024 have on our society in future?

Webinar
How May the 2024 Election Affect PA Business?
Jan 31
Jan 31, 2024
Jan 31, 2024

As business leaders prepare to navigate a contentious year ahead, join Business For America | Pennsylvania to hear expert panelists explain Pennsylvania’s unpredictable electoral landscape, how women voters may influence key races, and the current mood in the Commonwealth on key policy issues. This kick-off session will provide insights that inform our future sessions designed to prepare business leaders to support both their employees and their bottom line through the 2024 elections.

Webinar
Insider Insights on How Corporate America is Working to Protect Our Democracy
Jan 9
Jan 9, 2024
Jan 9, 2024

A private discussion with the YPO Democracy Group and businesses already engaged in taking practical actions to support our democratic institutions.

Webinar
Business Perspectives on Political Backlash
Nov 9
Nov 9, 2023
Nov 9, 2023

Going into 2024, Businesses are facing an increasingly hostile political climate. Join our webinar to learn insights from the October 2023 “Business Survey on Political Backlash” from Business for America, along with advice on how businesses can navigate these challenges.

Webinar
CPR in Action: Addressing the Root Causes of Dysfunctional American Politics
Oct 26
Oct 26, 2023
Oct 26, 2023

Please join our next Expert Dialogue with the Erb Institute as we explore the findings from our recent working group and survey. The discussion will highlight thoughts on “backlash” in the current U.S. political environment and how businesses can take action to address the root causes of dysfunctional politics.

Conference
Association of Corporate Citizenship Professionals Conference 2023
Oct 16
Oct 18, 2023
Oct 16, 2023

It’s no longer a question whether companies should be involved with civic engagement. With many companies looking to level up, this session will make the case for why democracy and voting matter to business.

Conference
Supporting a Healthy Democracy: What Business Can Do!
Oct 6
Oct 6, 2023
Oct 6, 2023

Unfortunately too many people lack an understanding of how government works or what it means to be a citizen. That’s not good for our economy or democracy. Businesses, that wish to support a healthier democracy, reduce polarization and a more functional political system will learn how they can support nonpartisan civic engagement an get out the vote programs.

Conference
American Democracy Summit: From Boardrooms to Ballots, Democracy is Good Business
Sep 29
Sep 29, 2023
Sep 29, 2023

As part of the Represent.Us 3-day conference, Business for America is leading a panel discussion with representatives from Patagonia, Hims & Hers, and others in the business community on the reasons business cares about the health of our republic, and what they can do about it.

Conference
Professional Women in Advocacy Conference
Sep 28
Sep 29, 2023
Sep 28, 2023

Sponsored by Women in Government Relations, the Professional Women in Advocacy Conference brings together government relations professionals to learn the latest methods and strategies for advocates and gain insight from fierce women around the country who are making an impact. BFA Founder & CEO Sarah Bonk will be leading a session titled "The First Amendment, Corporations, and Capitalism: How to Deal with Business Backlash."

Webinar
PA Civics Presents: State of Civic Education in Pennsylvania
Sep 20
Sep 20, 2023
Sep 20, 2023

Join BFA and the PA Civics Coalition for a conversation about the state of civic education in Pennsylvania. Education leaders, including Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid N. Mumin, will discuss the NAEP report and Act 35, spotlight civic learning in the classroom and community, and identify solutions to bolster civic education across the Commonwealth. BFA will be leading a panel on Civics in the Community. Read more to learn about the event and our panel.

Conference
2023 Social Impact World Summit
Sep 20
Sep 21, 2023
Sep 20, 2023

More than ever, corporate leaders are aligned on the importance of investing in democracy. Our session will provide operators who are building civic strategies from scratch with guidance on how to get started, as well as take existing initiatives to the next level.

Convening
Indiana Business Alliance for Civics Launch Event
Sep 18
Sep 18, 2023
Sep 18, 2023

The launch event for the Indiana Business Alliance for Civics which is forming to speak out in support of K-12 civic education.

Webinar
The Case for Moving the PA Primary Date
Sep 11
Sep 11, 2023
Sep 11, 2023

As part of our bipartisan series with lawmakers, state Senators Sharif Street (D-3) and Dave Argall (R-29) will join us to discuss a bill to move next year's Presidential Primary date. Scheduled for April 23rd, Pennsylvania's primary comes late in the process for selecting the eventual nominees. The bill's intention is to increase PA’s national influence, and avoid a conflict with the Jewish holiday of Passover. Join us to learn how this change might impact your businesses 2024 GOTV plans.

Webinar
Business & Civics Go Back to School
Aug 9
Aug 9, 2023
Aug 9, 2023

Former Republican state legislator, school superintendent, and government teacher Dr. Tony Cook joins BFA Indiana to talk about how Hoosier businesses can support and enhance civics education in their local schools and districts. In 1987, he gained national attention as he welcomed HIV-positive teenager Ryan White to Hamilton Heights High School at the height of the AIDS crisis. Now, he is speaking out on the importance of improving civic literacy in Indiana and across the country.

Webinar
Elevating Civic Literacy in PA for a Bright Economic Future
Jun 13
Jun 13, 2023
Jun 13, 2023

An event for PA businesses to learn how to elevate civic literacy in schools and communities for a healthier economy and democracy.

Conference
NEW Leadership Ohio
May 26
May 26, 2023
May 26, 2023

BFA Founder Sarah Bonk will be the guest speaker at the closing luncheon for this five-day program on the Ohio State campus, where college students are introduced to successful women leaders and strategies to run and win political campaigns.

Webinar
What Can American Business Learn from Israel’s Democratic Crisis?
May 23
May 23, 2023
May 23, 2023

Democracy in Israel is under threat. Learn how Israelis are mobilizing, the Israeli business response, and lessons that the US can take.

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