Emergent Research is an independent, non-partisan research firm. We don't takes sides in political debates, nor allow politics to influence or impede our research.

However, on occasion our research relates to broader political issues. Our work on the stimulus package is an example.

Since the passage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, we have been analyzing and forecasting how this Act will likely impact small businesses.

Our goals and objectives are simple - we want to alert small businesses to the opportunities presented by this very complex and multi-faceted piece of legislation. And to put it simply, the U.S. government can't spend $787 billion without creating opportunities for small businesses. 

As researchers we are neither for nor against this legislation. We are not attempting to say whether or not the stimulus package is good or bad, or should or should not have been passed. We are not attempting to say whether or not the money could be better spent other ways. Not that these aren't important issues and questions - they simply aren't part of our non-partisan objectives.

Unfortunately, in today's highly charged political environment there is no way to do this type of work and avoid being attacked. And several people are misrepresenting our work and what we are saying as part of their attempts to discredit the stimulus package. 

It is funny to note that near as I can tell, none of our critics have bothered to read our stimulus package research report. 

Since we compete in the marketplace for ideas, we are used to hot kitchens. While it saddens us that our political discourse has sunk to this level, we will continue to alert small businesses to these opportunities. 

So, if you are interested in a non-partisan view on the small business opportunities being created by the stimulus package - and how your small businesses can benefit - please join SBA Chief Economist Chad Moutray, Optimal Solutions CEO Sam Sliman and myself in a SAP sponsored webcast on this topic July 29th at 2:00pm eastern time.  Click here to register. 


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