Small business optimism may be trending upward nationally, but many North Carolina small businesses continue to face day-to-day challenges, NFIB State Director Gregg Thompson says.

“Small business optimism may be trending upward, but a lot of Main Street businesses are still having a tough time finding and keeping good workers,” Thompson said. “That makes it harder for them to maintain operating hours and provide the level of service their customers expect.”

The latest NFIB Small Business Economic Trends (SBET) report shows the Small Business Optimism Index rose 0.5 points in December to 99.5, remaining above its 52-year average of 98. Of the 10 components in the index, two increased, three decreased, and five remained unchanged. The rise was driven primarily by an increase in the number of owners expecting better business conditions.

Nationally, uncertainty among small business owners declined. The NFIB Uncertainty Index fell seven points from November to 84, marking its lowest level since June 2024.

Click here to read the full report.