Wendell Bailey, a longtime small business owner and former U.S. congressman and state office holder, is the Office of Advocacy’s Regional Advocate for the federal government’s Region VII, covering Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska. He is the direct link between small business owners, state and local government agencies, state legislators, small business associations, and the Office of Advocacy of the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Mr. Bailey has spent almost two decades in public service. From 1984 to 1992, he served as Missouri state treasurer. He served one term as U.S. Congressman during the 97th Congress, 1980-82. In addition, he served four terms as a member of the Missouri House of Representatives from 1972-1980.

Mr. Bailey has operated successful small businesses, including an auto auction and a newspaper. He has served as an international consultant and worked with small business trade associations. He received his Bachelor of science degree in business administration from Southwest Missouri State University.

As a Regional Advocate, Mr. Bailey helps identify new issues and concerns of small business owners. He also monitors the impact of federal and state policies on small businesses at the local level and works closely with local government officials, state officials and legislators, and the Chief Counsel for Advocacy to develop programs and policies that help, rather than hinder, small business growth.