Small business optimism may be trending upward nationally, but many Georgia small businesses continue to face day-to-day challenges, NFIB State Director Hunter Loggins says.

“Small business owners may be feeling more upbeat, but we still need the General Assembly to provide meaningful tax relief and address regulatory transparency and rising insurance costs. Making progress on these issues would give Main Street businesses more certainty and make it easier for them to grow and create jobs.”

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.