State Director Jim Brown says the Optimism Index for October reflects the challenges facing many of North Carolina’s Main Street businesses.

“Although optimism is on the rise on Main Street, small business owners are still facing unprecedented economic adversity.

“Low sales, unfilled jobs openings, and ongoing inflationary pressures continue to challenge our Main Streets, but owners remain hopeful as they head toward the holiday season.”

Click here to read the full report on the latest national Small Business Economic Trends survey.