The business landscape is evolving, and small businesses are preparing for a year filled with both opportunities and challenges. Our latest Small Business Outlooks 2025 report offers an in-depth analysis of key industry insights, highlighting economic optimism, sales forecasts, employment trends, and the biggest hurdles businesses will face in the coming year.
With 35% of small businesses expecting improved economic conditions, confidence is rising, yet persistent challenges such as cash flow management (69%), inflation (66%), and labor costs (55%) remain major concerns. Understanding these trends can help businesses and service providers make informed, strategic decisions that drive success.
Small businesses play an integral role in economic growth, job creation, and industry innovation. Their ability to adapt to evolving market conditions, regulatory changes, and consumer trends directly influences economic stability. As we transition from 2024 to 2025, it is essential to assess how small businesses perceive their economic prospects, sales expectations, hiring plans, and operational challenges. A deeper understanding of these key trends provides valuable insights for business owners, policymakers, investors, and service providers who support this critical sector.
This report examines small business expectations for 2025, comparing them to 2024 data to identify trends and emerging patterns. The analysis explores economic confidence, sales outlooks, employment strategies, and pressing challenges, offering a roadmap for businesses to anticipate and prepare for potential opportunities and risks.
Key questions explored in this report include:
By addressing these critical areas, this report provides actionable insights to help small businesses and stakeholders prepare for the opportunities and challenges of 2025.
At Thrive Analytics, we delve deep into the specific needs and challenges faced by small businesses to equip providers like you with the knowledge to build more effective, responsive business strategies. Our insights are crafted to ensure you can not only meet but exceed the expectations of your small business customers.
