Senator Collins Recognized as Small Business Champion by NFIB

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins received the Guardian of Small Business Award from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the nation’s largest small business association, for her advocacy on behalf of job creators.

“Throughout my Senate service, I have championed small businesses, the job creating engines that power our economy,” said Senator Collins.  “When the pandemic struck earlier this year, I immediately got to work to respond to this public health and economic crisis.  The Paycheck Protection Program I authored has helped millions of small businesses keep their doors open and continue paying their employees.  I am honored to receive the NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award, and I will continue to advocate for policies that help small businesses start, grow, and prosper.”

Earlier this year, Senator Collins co-authored the Paycheck Protection Program to help small employers stay afloat and continue paying their workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Since its launch in early April, more than 28,000 Maine small businesses and self-employed individuals have received nearly $2.3 billion in forgivable loans, helping to support more than 250,000 jobs throughout the state.

The Guardian of Small Business is NFIB’s most prestigious award. It is reserved for lawmakers who vote to support key issues that are important to small business owners.

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