The American Dream Initiative
Imagine a future where new American-made businesses could flourish without the fear of financial failure or the crushing debt of traditional business loans. Picture everyday Americans with dreams of entrepreneurship no longer needing massive bank loans or millions of dollars to start purposeful businesses—businesses that generate jobs, support other local businesses, and make a positive impact. Instead of being shackled by high-interest loans from private banks that prioritize profit over people, what if the government offered zero-interest loans to new qualified businesses? Americans should be encouraged and empowered to pursue their business dreams, not held back by financial roadblocks. By providing zero-interest loans, we can inspire innovation, create more jobs, and strengthen our communities, all while supporting the growth of businesses committed to making a difference.
As a young entrepreneur with dreams of growing my healthy soda brand, Glowpop, I understand firsthand the challenges of starting a business in the U.S. today. It means facing sky-high interest rates, juggling multiple credit lines, and struggling to secure affordable funding—while also managing basic expenses like rent, groceries, and gas.
I’m proud to support local American farmers and manufacturers by sourcing all of my ingredients from family-owned California farms and working with a small manufacturing company in Colorado to produce my finished beverage . Despite my commitment to providing a product that improves the diet and health for American consumers, I still face the difficulty of securing affordable financing. Like many small business owners, I’m forced to rely on private banks that offer high-interest loans and penalize me with more fees when I make a late payment, making it even harder to scale and thrive while staying true to my mission of improving the diet of American consumers
But what if there was a better way to support those committed to sourcing, producing, and thriving right here in America?
I propose the creation of a zero-interest loan program, “The American Dream Initiative”, aimed to support and incentivize new American-made businesses that are dedicated to benefiting America, whether through health, environmental, or community-focused efforts.
This program would offer up to $250,000 in zero-interest loans for three years to businesses that source, manufacture, and operate entirely within the United States. Applicants must demonstrate a clear mission, provide a detailed business plan, and undergo an interview process. This initiative aims to reduce financial barriers, promote job creation, encourage businesses to source and produce locally, and stimulate the economy by empowering responsible, purpose-driven Americans to grow and succeed.
Problem Statement:
New American entrepreneurs, like myself, who are committed to creating an impactful business, face the same financial hurdles. The current lending landscape is stacked against small businesses, especially those committed to operating fully within the United States. High interest rates and predatory lending practices stifle innovation and limit the potential of businesses that are trying to do good.
Proposed Solution:
I propose the creation of a Zero-Interest Loan Program for Purpose-Driven, Fully American-Made Businesses, with the following guidelines:
- Eligibility Criteria:
• Businesses must be in operation for less than five years.
• All sourcing, manufacturing, and packaging must occur within the United States.
• The business must demonstrate a clear mission to create positive health, environmental, or community impact.
• Applicants must undergo an interview process and provide a detailed business plan, including a breakdown of how the loan will be utilized, supported by a log of expenses and suppliers.
- Loan Details:
• Loans of up to $250,000 available for qualifying businesses.
• Zero interest for the first three years, offering a grace period for businesses to grow and stabilize.
• Flexible repayment schedules, with the first payment due 12 months after the loan is disbursed.
- Expected Impact:
• Enables purpose-driven small businesses to scale without the burden of high-interest debt, allowing them to reinvest profits into growth and community impact.
• Stimulates local economies by supporting American-made products and services.
• Fosters job creation and innovation, particularly in sectors focused on health, sustainability, and community well-being.
Why This Matters:
Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy, driving nearly half of all private-sector employment. By supporting purpose-driven entrepreneurs who are committed to positive change, this program can strengthen the fabric of our economy and society. Providing zero-interest loans will empower these businesses to thrive, innovate, and expand their impact without being hamstrung by financial constraints.
Call to Action:
I urge lawmakers to support this proposal and help American entrepreneurs create lasting change. Let’s create a financial framework that encourages responsible business growth, fosters job creation, and champions the values of sustainability and community well-being. With your support, we can help purpose-driven businesses like Glowpop flourish, benefiting not just our economy, but our society as a whole.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Michael Miller
Proud American & Founder of Glowpop