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Report: 82% of U.S. small businesses confident despite economic challenges
ColoradoBiz Staff //May 4, 2026//
Report: 82% of U.S. small businesses confident despite economic challenges
ColoradoBiz Staff //May 4, 2026//
In Brief:
- 82.2% of small businesses expect near-term growth
- 53.3% cite customer demand as biggest challenge
- Only 10.8% feel fully supported by government policy
- Small Business Expo CEO Zach Lezberg comments on adaptation
NEW YORK — About 82% of U.S. small business owners say they are confident in their growth over the next six months, even as many cite ongoing economic challenges, according to a 2026 report released by Small Business Expo.
The State of Small Business Report is based on a survey of 11,426 owners and was released during National Small Business Week.
The report found that 82.2% of respondents expect near-term growth, while 53.3% identified customer demand as their biggest challenge. Only 10.8% said they feel fully supported by government policy.
Inflation was described as having a moderate impact on most businesses, and many reported maintaining current staffing levels.
The report also introduced the SBE Small Business Index, which rated the current business environment at 6.8 out of 10.
“Small businesses are not pulling back. They’re adapting,” said Zach Lezberg, CEO and founder of Small Business Expo. “Business owners remain confident, but they are navigating real constraints, especially around customer demand and broader economic conditions.”
The findings show customer demand has become the most consistent challenge across industries. The report also found that businesses using technology were more likely to report stronger demand.
“Businesses that effectively leverage technology are more likely to experience stronger demand outcomes,” Lezberg said.
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