President Donald Trump hosted a small business summit in the White House East Room on Monday, May 4, 2026 [1].

The event serves as a platform for the administration to showcase its economic agenda and tax achievements specifically targeted at small-scale enterprises. By aligning the summit with National Small Business Week, the administration aims to signal continued support for the domestic entrepreneurial sector.

The summit began at 3 p.m. [2] and brought together a diverse group of entrepreneurs. According to reports, between 130 [3] and more than 130 [4] business owners attended the gathering to discuss the impact of current federal policies on their operations.

Trump used the event to highlight what the administration describes as significant tax wins for small businesses. The gathering focused on how these policy shifts are intended to reduce regulatory burdens, and stimulate growth across various industries.

Activities during the summit included direct engagement between the president and the attendees. The White House selected the East Room for the proceedings, a venue typically reserved for high-profile official announcements and receptions.

This summit is part of a broader series of events marking National Small Business Week. The administration intends to use the week to emphasize the role of small businesses as primary drivers of U.S. economic stability, and job creation.

President Donald Trump hosted a small business summit in the White House East Room

This event functions as a strategic communication effort to link the administration's tax and regulatory policies with the tangible success of small business owners. By hosting the summit during National Small Business Week, the White House is attempting to solidify its image as a pro-growth government while utilizing the East Room to provide a high-visibility backdrop for its economic claims.