eBay is recruiting sellers to join its Small Business Ambassador Network. eBay created the program, which it refers to as “SBAN,” in 2013 to help with grass roots campaigning on legislative issues.
In a recent recruitment email to an EcommerceBytes reader, eBay said it had created SBAN to feature small businesses, “whose stories and experiences perfectly showcase how the Internet has successfully enabled commerce and allowed small retailers to thrive in spite of an uncertain and volatile global economy.”
eBay has been savvy about lobbying politicians to serve its interests since the days of former CEO Meg Whitman. Years ago it came up with the idea of flying different sellers from around the country to Washington DC once a year to meet with legislators after first briefing them.
Online sellers face many legal and regulatory challenges, and when those interests align with eBay’s, they can be a powerful force. At the most recent US of eBay Advocacy Day (#DCFlyIn16) held in April, eBay executives Devin Wenig and Hal Lawton were on hand to lend their voice.
eBay has been outspoken about the online sales tax issue, trade issues, and regulatory issues involving small businesses, both domestically and internationally.
In addition to helping shape public policy, sellers can gain exposure for their businesses. In a FAQs section under, “Why should I join and what are the benefits of membership,” eBay states:
“Becoming involved in eBay’s Small Business Ambassador Network will help ensure that technology, the Internet and our marketplace continue to successfully enable small businesses around the world. By becoming a SBAN member you can use eBay’s resources to make your voice heard on public policy issues that can directly impact your small business. Additionally, membership could lead to exciting opportunities including being featured on our digital platforms, meeting eBay’s senior level executives, meeting legislators and getting media exposure.”
You can learn more about the Small Business Ambassador Network program on the eBay Main Street website.
